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Profiles In Business Excellence: Villa Foglia "I started in 1966 after my stint in the US Navy,” said Foglia. “I started working for Peter Be at Pete's Pizza. Pete retired from the pizza business in May, 1967, and I took over his business. That's where it all began.” In 1972, Foglia moved his business to a new location on Wyoming Avenue in Exeter and renamed his business Bernie's Pizza. He operated the business from 1972 to 1981, when he moved his business to the former Villa Savoy. Once again a name change was in order — Villa Foglia. "Where have all those years gone?,” wondered Foglia. “It seems like yesterday when I was at Pete's. Life is short, but I have been blessed. God is very good to me. I just hope I am able to continue for awhile longer." Over the years, Foglia hosted some celebrities for a night at Villa Foglia. Among the notables who stopped in at his restaurant were Al Martino, Sergio Franchi, Frankie Avalon, and Andy Griffith. Barney Ross, once a boxing champion in three weight divisions also made a stop at Villa Foglia. "As far as celebrities go, my biggest thrill was meeting Joe DiMaggio,” recalled Foglia. “When I was introduced, he explained that his best friend in the world was from West Virginia and his name was Bernie Foglio. Despite the spelling difference that actually occurred when one of my ancestors arrived at Ellis Island, he was referring to our cousin from Clarksburg, West Virginia. Even though I lived my whole life in Exeter, I was born in West Virginia. We had gone there to visit my grandfather, who was ill at the time, and my mother gave birth to me on that trip." Despite his famous customers, Foglia realizes his success is due to the local people who frequent his restaurant. "Every day is an adventure, meeting new people and talking with some faithful old customers,” said Foglia. “I can say that 99% of my experiences have been good, and only about 1% was bad. I've met a lot of really nice people over the years, and I have many long lasting friendships as a result of my business." Villa Foglia, located at 1133 Wyoming Avenue in Exeter, features Italian-American cuisine. "It is prepared to order,” said Foglia. “We use 100% extra virgin olive oil and prepare the dishes in traditional authentic Italian style. We also serve pastas, seafood, steaks, and other dishes." Foglia's real passion in life is his family. He is married to the former Karen DeMark of Wyoming for the past 22 years. They have two children. Maria is a student at San Francisco City College, and Teresa is a junior at Wyoming Area. "I was married a little later than most, and I believe the most important and hardest job is raising children, but it is also the most rewarding,” said Foglia. “I am also very lucky to have Karen as my wife. She is my inspiration and constant companion. Another important woman in my life was my sister Rose Ann. She was with me since the time I opened Bernie's Pizza. Unfortunately, she died 11 years ago. I miss her very much. I thank God every day for my family.” Bernie Foglia’s family and work is obviously a labor of love. His theme for his business says it all, “Love at First Bite.” |
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