The Story of Chef Luigi Ornaghi and His Family

Three years ago Kalee, John and Darcy’s (the owners) daughter, decided to go on a six-month excursion through Europe with her backpack and camera at hand. She was traveling through Alba, Italy and came across a little bistro called Trefalalounge (Luigi’s Restaurant). From that moment on, a great friendship was bonded. Luigi and Kalee began talking and Luigi invited her back for dinner with his family. She then met Suizi (Luigi’s wife), Vittorio (6 year old son), and Carolina (2 year old daughter). Kalee showed the family pictures of Sandpoint and right there Luigi and his family fell in love with Sandpoint. He then explained about traveling through Italy and different countries expanding his culinary background including the Alps, Morocco and Australia.

At that time, Suizi was pregnant with Carolina and Luigi needed help at the restaurant. Kalee volunteered to help Luigi for the rest of her trip (2 months). Upon her stay with the Ornaghi’s, Kalee became very aware of Chef Luigi’s rare talent. Right before her departure, Luigi told Kalee if her parents ever decided to open a restaurant she should track him down.

In the summer of 2006 John and Darcy kicked around the idea of opening a restaurant in Italy. After hearing the incredible stories of Chef Luigi they tried tracking him down in Italy. After about a month of phone calls between Luigi’s relatives they finally tracked him down in Argentina, where Luigi’s wife Suizi was from. He was expanding his vast culinary knowledge in a new area of making cheese. It didn’t take much struggle in convincing him to move to Sandpoint, to be their Head Chef.

The Ornaghi’s now live on a small farm in Sandpoint and with his incredible knowledge and love for food we (John and Darcy) can proudly say, “He is a joy to work with. His background and expertise amazes us every week. We couldn’t think of having another Chef working with us. He and his family are now our family!”

Chef Luigi and his Mediterranean/Italian inspired cuisine has now become North Idaho’s newest place to be. The bi-weekly menu has allowed people to experience a different taste of culture every day of the week since the grand opening of Three Glasses.