Marco Conte

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

My Italian grandmother took me into the kitchen as a toddler. She knew from early on that I had a gift for preparing food. When I was 12, I was behind the line with her at my grandparents' restaurant. I have stayed in the restaurant business my entire life, and world travel brought me into the realm of International cuisine.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

My favorite dish is a simple one that my Italian father often made at home: fresh pasta with olive oil, garlic, smaller diced zucchini, crushed red pepper, and grated Pecornio Romano cheese. Add just a touch of basil at the end, and it's one of the most flavorful dishes and brings the comfort of a family dinner. My grandparents and parents are all gone, but I still make it to remember them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I have a small staff of dedicated people who have been with me for a long time. Together we've all been through good and bad experiences and have always supported each other. I would rent a large lake house to give them a week of relaxation to spend with their families.