Only in South Florida could this happen: Tona Bova, the man who allegedly left employees unpaid, recently filed for bankruptcy, foreclosed on his home, stiffed his landlord for over $30,000 in unpaid rent, and partnered with the biggest ponzi-schemer since Bernie Madoff is opening another restaurant. Less than a month after closing his last, no less.
VIVO Partenza opens next Wednesday in Boca Raton in the same exact spot once occupied by his Bova Ristorante. All three Bova restaurants (including planned locations in the old Jackson's Steakhouse and Casa Casuarina in Miami Beach) went bye-bye following the unraveling of Scott Rothstein, Bova's former partner.
The chutzpah it takes to open a place like this while still owing big debts all over South Florida is incredible. It even appears as if the Bovas are rubbing what they're doing in their creditor's faces. Just look at the VIVO logo for proof. It's nearly identical to the one used to promote the Bova chain. An email address on the website points questions towards [email protected]. The menu for VIVO is ridiculously similar to the old Bova one as well.
Guess it's back to business as usual. The wealthy diners of Boca Raton who don't care who they hand their cash to won't miss a beat.
After the jump: The media invite sent out for the opening, plus the official press release.
(Boca Raton, FL) June 12, 2010 ---- Celebratinga new beginning, Tony and Laurie Bova have opened a new restaurant,
VIVO Partenza. The inspired name is both symbolic and sentimental. In
Italian, VIVO means "alive" and "lively" and partenza translates to "a
departure," specifically the constant departures one makes into new
phases of life.
"Thisis an exciting time for our family," said Tony Bova. "We are truly
touched by the outpouring of support from our loyal patrons, friends
and community leaders. We feel, with VIVO, that we have created an
experience that encompasses a culinary journey of our past 28 years in
this industry and we are very proud of that accomplishment."
Thecarefully crafted menu of VIVO showcases many of the signature dishes
that have built a legion of fans throughout South Florida, offering
such favorites as Chicken Scarpiello, Eggplant Pancakes, Grilled Veal
Chop, Prime Bone-In Rib Eye, Wild Scottish Salmon Piccata and many
more, along with their delicious pasta dishes, signature pizzas and
salads. And with a variety of price points, the selections allow for a
dining experience that caters to each patron's gastronomic mood and
budget.
Thiscompilation of the "best of the best" recipes was carefully decided
upon by Tony Bova, who has always been the creative mastermind behind
each dish, ever since the early days in 1982 when he began his first
restaurant in Boca Raton.
"Forme, it has always been about the food," he said. "And with VIVO, that
is the focus. I grew up watching my mother in the kitchen, and I always
knew this is what I wanted to do. Creating a place where people can
experience wonderful Italian cuisine and enjoy themselves with friends,
family and business associates, has always been my passion."
WithVIVO, the Bovas are looking forward to personally welcoming back their
loyal fans, while creating many new ones. "With this opening, we feel
like we are coming home," said Tony. "As a family, we are focusing on
the things that have always been most important to us, which is making
each and every guest feel they are part of our family every time they
dine with us."
Private Grand Opening Reception
of VIVO Partenza to celebrate our new beginning.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
6:00pm - 7:30pm
Cocktails & Hors d'oeuvres
Live Entertainment
Event to follow 7:30pm - 10:00pm
VIVO Partenza, a Modern Italian Restaurant
1450 N. Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33432