Christian Pèpe & The Family Tradition
by Andrea Stuart Seated in a high chair with marinara smudges settled into the creases of his youthful smile, a young Christian Pèpe was introduced to the family business, Pèpe International, when he was a sprout. As he grew, he could be found in the back of the family bakery dusted in flour, awaiting his turn at the counter. When that time finally came, the 11-year-old could barely peer over the counter as he assisted customers. Son of Rich Pèpe, proprietor of Pèpe International, Christian has cleaned the proverbial powder from his face and is preparing to take the reins
Through the Roof
Review By Ulia Zettie Rich Pèpe gives Carmel more bustle, housemade breads and Italian flavor with new Vesuvio. On Fire: The incendiary theme at Vesuvio carries from the name to the rooftop firepits (above) to the fire-roasted artichokes and pizzas (inset) to the bar/ lounge’s flammable feature. Vesuvio, named after Italy’s Mount Vesuvius, erupted three months ago in the old Piatti Ristorante space at Junipero and Sixth in Carmel. As the volcano responsible for burying the town of Pompeii and a symbol of
Two More Golden Pine Cone Awards
The Pèpe family would like to thank the readers of the Carmel Pine Cone for voting our restaurants among the the best on the Monterey Peninsula yet again! Little Napoli wins "Best Italian Restaurant" for the third year in a row, and Vesuvio wins "Best New Restaurant".