by MK
For eight years, Enrico Prodi has been shaping his American dream, leading him to one of Manhattan’s most iconic food landmarks, the Eataly Flatiron. Born and raised in Trieste, Prodi’s journey with Eataly has taken him across continents.
After early stints with KPMG and Allianz in Trieste, Prodi made the decision to leave Trieste, joining Eataly in Turin, a choice that led then him to roles in Rome, Los Angeles, Boston, London and, as of 2023, New York City.
All the way from Trieste to New York City?
“Yes, it’s been quite a journey,” he says, laughing. “I moved to the United States in 2018, thanks to Eataly. I started in Los Angeles, then Boston, then London briefly, and now I’ve been here in New York for a year. It’s been a fantastic experience.”
What’s it like to be a Triestino in New York City?
“Of course, I’m incredibly proud of where I come from. We have some amazing products from Trieste and our region. It’s always a point of pride for me to tell people I’m from this beautiful, underrated city in Italy,” Prodi says, a smile breaking through.
Adapting to the differences — how was it?
“You learn to adapt. I remember the first time I ordered a coffee in America; they handed me what seemed like a three-liter cup!” he laughs. “Every city in the U.S. is different. In L.A., you drive everywhere; in New York, it’s the opposite. But you embrace each culture while holding onto your roots. I’ll always be Triestino, and I’m proud of that.”
How does being Italian influence your work at Eataly?
“At Eataly Flatiron, we have a certain style that really values customer interaction and attention to detail. That sense of hospitality, I think, is very Italian. It makes a difference, especially here in New York.”
What do you miss most about Trieste?
“I miss my family, my friends, and my Sunday walks by “le Rive” drinking a “capo in b. New York has its magic, though. It’s the most electrifying city in the world — anything can happen here.”
