Ciro’s love for cooking ignited at an early age, as he devoted his evenings to honing his pizza-making skills while balancing school commitments. His relentless passion and adventurous spirit took him on a transformative journey across Europe and America, ultimately leading him to the lively streets of Vietnam. In 2014, he embraced the role of pizza chef at The Long Bar, Time Square—a position that not only allowed him to showcase his culinary talents but also deepened his affection for the city where he would later meet his future wife.
In 2018, Ciro returned to Italy and opened Margherí in Cesenatico. The restaurant quickly gained acclaim, earning recognition from prestigious culinary authorities, including 50Top Pizza Italy, Romagna in Tavola, and the Pizza Challenge awards. These accolades not only highlighted Ciro’s devotion to pizza craftsmanship but also underscored his commitment to delivering high-quality, artisanal dishes.
After five successful years in Italy, Ciro and his wife made the heartfelt choice to return to Vietnam, envisioning a future full of family and culinary innovation at Margherí in Phu My Hung in July, 2023. Additionally, Ciro expanded his culinary influence by collaborating with a Singaporean partner to establish the Clay Supper Club in Clarke Quay, Singapore, further enhancing his reach within the gastronomic world.
In just one year, Margherí made significant strides in the culinary scene, being recognized among the top 50 pizzerias in Asia and the Pacific by 50 Top Pizza Asia Pacific. The restaurant also garnered accolades from Gambero Rosso International, earning two coveted slices that affirmed its elite status. This year, Margherí once again stood out as one of the best pizzerias, receiving recognition from 50 Top Pizza Asia Pacific 2025, proudly representing Vietnam as its only distinguishable establishment.
The restaurant’s remarkable ascent from 48th to an impressive 11th place, along with its award for Best Performance of the Year, speaks volumes about Ciro’s unwavering dedication and pursuit of excellence. On September 8th, Margherí will participate in the prestigious competition, The Best 100 Pizzerias in the World, showcasing Ciro’s influence on the global culinary landscape.
At the heart of Ciro’s culinary philosophy lies his passion for crafting authentic Neapolitan pizza. Each masterpiece is created using a unique sourdough blend that undergoes a meticulous 48-hour proofing process. Ciro’s steadfast commitment to natural, high-quality ingredients, combined with a daily ritual of making fresh pasta, embodies a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. By intertwining Italian culinary heritage with modern flair, Ciro has fostered a warm, welcoming atmosphere at Margherí, where every guest feels like part of a family, savoring not only exceptional cuisine but also a genuine taste of home.
Margherí
Address: R3-60 Hung Phuoc 4, District 7 , Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Tel: +84 32 997 4518