Born in Naples and raised in Milan, Bruno Abate was inspired from an early age by his parents’ love for food and fashion. He launched his first business in Milan, supplying fish and caviar to high-end restaurants, and went on to explore the world—deepening his appreciation for fine cuisine and design along the way.

In 2002, Bruno brought his vision to Chicago, where he combined his Italian heritage with a passion for modern aesthetics. He opened Follia in the city’s meatpacking district, creating a dining experience that blended authentic Italian cuisine with contemporary design. He later opened Tocco in Wicker Park, now reimagined as Tocco North in Winnetka. Most recently, Bruno expanded his culinary footprint with the opening of Follia in Lake Forest, continuing his mission to bring the flavors and spirit of Italy to the Midwest.

Today, Bruno channels his passion into Recipe for Change, a nonprofit he founded to teach culinary arts, visual arts, job skills, and personal responsibility to detainees at Cook County Jail. His mission is to restore dignity and provide pathways to success—empowering individuals to transform their lives, rebuild their families, and positively impact their communities.