Stefano Alvera Obituary

Alvera, Stefano 1MC30020 dear son of Renzo and Gabriella, best friend and brother to Francesco and the late Claudio, cherished husband and soul mate to Kathryn, loved son-in-law to James and Barbara Sullivan, nephew to George and Gloria Shlaes and Wayne and Carlotta Daniel, sweet brother-in-law to Maribeth (Brian), Laurie (Devin) and Jamie (Tim), caring uncle to Andrea and Abby, gregarious friend to many, including staff and guests from Topo Gigio, Bice, Narcisse and Domaine suddenly passed away on Sunday, January 12. Interment will be in Cortina, Italy on Thursday, January 23. A celebration of service is being planned in Chicago. In lieu of flowers, a special fund is being set up to aid the needy in his hometown and will be anounced at a later date. Born and raised in Italy's chic ski resort village, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Stefano Alvera spent a lifetime in the food and beverage industry both in Europe and the United States. After spending his early years perfecting the art of white glove service in four star restaurants and hotels such as the Tre Croce and LeVolpe in Italy's Dolomite mountains, Alvera moved to Venice in 1990. He spent two years working the hot club scene in Venice's Lido district before following his dream to the United States. His twelve plus year career in the United States have included stints at Miami's super hot Tiramisu and Aspen's Farfalle as well as Chicago's Topo Gigio and Bice. Along the way, Alvera cultivated his interest in the best food and wine the world has to offer. For the past five years, he has served as General Manager at Narcisse Champagne Salon and Caviar Bar, where his European manner and easy going nature have made countless Chicagoans feel at home. He brings to Domaine a combination of impeccable service standards and in-depth knowledge of food and beverage service. Visit Guest Book at www.suntimes.com