In addition to his official title as senior vice president of food and beverage, Ric Scicchitano holds the inimitable designation of being the first-ever Corner Bakery employee. Scicchitano graduated from New York’s Culinary Institute of America (CIA) where he obtained a dual degree in culinary in 1989 and baking in 1991. Upon graduation, he immediately went to work for restaurateur Richard Melman’s newest concepts: Maggiano’s Little Italy and Corner Bakery. As the Corner Bakery brand evolved, Scicchitano’s role grew from spending his days in the kitchen to having an active role in creating an updated menu. By the time the brand had expanded to five stores, Scicchitano was promoted to director of commissary operations and focused the majority of his responsibilities on running operations of all the bakeries. In 2002, Scicchitano was promoted to vice president of food and beverage where his responsibilities include menu strategy and culinary development. In addition to creating and perfecting new menu items and ensuring current items are in demand and up to par, Scicchitano is also responsible for the purchasing of all food, beverage and packaging needs. In his more than fifteen years with the brand, Scicchitano and his team have been responsible for menu innovations such as the famous Chicken Pesto sandwich, Harvest Salad with Roasted Chicken and a line of panini sandwiches that are unparalleled within the industry. FAVORITE CORNER BAKERY CAFE MENU ITEM: It changes all the time … Right now it’s the hot oatmeal with brown sugar and almonds – it’s a darn good way to start a day.
