The Zucchi family has taken the helm of the storied Eduardo's Pasta Co., aiming to infuse new life into the time-honored San Francisco brand. Nando Zucchi, with a corporate background including stints at Betty Crocker and Cake Mate, along with his wife Anne and their daughters, Mia and Andrea, is charting a fresh course for the pasta company founded in 1977 by chef Eduardo Morettoni. "We're bringing a lot of energy back into it," Nando Zucchi told The San Francisco Chronicle.
For a brand that experienced financial struggles and ownership changes since Morettoni's passing 13 years ago, the Zucchis' transition is a bright spot. The family was drawn to the brand's deep roots and loyal following in the Bay Area, where Morettoni's legacy still resonates with those who remember his early pasta-making days in a garage. According to a statement on Eduardo's website, they are committed to preserving the "authentic taste and perfect texture" that have made Eduardo's a local favorite.
Nando's aunt in San Francisco, a long-time fan of Eduardo’s, echoed the quality and taste of the pasta, prompting the family to take a closer look at the business. This familial connection, coupled with overwhelming positive feedback about the brand in the city, convinced them to seize the opportunity. Now, after moving from Wisconsin, the Zucchis are operating a business that holds personal significance, particularly as they live in the same state as their daughters for the first time in years. Their investment in a company beloved by their relatives symbolizes more than just a business venture – it's the merging of family, passion, and the entrepreneurial spirit.
The rebranding efforts are already underway, with Mia using her graphic design skills on packaging and forming the brand's first-ever website and social media presence. The sisters are also involved in other business aspects, with Andrea lending her public relations expertise to copywriting and editorial content. Through an announcement on LinkedIn, Nando expressed his dedication to "share truly exceptional pasta with more people across the Bay Area and beyond," celebrating the launch of online ordering and hinting at the family's larger ambitions for the brand.
Known for its dried pasta varieties that include the use of eggs for a richer taste, Eduardo's Pasta Co. has remained a constant on Bay Area shelves, currently available at markets such as Whole Foods and Safeway. The Zucchis have also reintroduced the pasta at community events, like Rainbow Grocery Cooperative's 50th anniversary party.
