Embarking on a remarkable journey after immigrating to the United States at the age of 18, Breno, the founder of Winfield Street Coffee and Deli, transformed his humble beginnings as a dishwasher at a legendary pizza joint in Greenwich, CT, into becoming the owner of a thriving food business. Enamored by American culture and finding solace within his pizza family, Breno's experiences inspired him to create his own culinary empire. This article explores the path he traversed, from his early days to the resounding success of Winfield Street Coffee and Deli.
The Pizza Joint and Unyielding Work Ethic:
Within the Greenwich pizza joint, Breno and his fellow hardworking immigrants dedicated themselves to long hours of toil, from sunrise to sunset, all sharing a common purpose of delivering exceptional food and service. The proprietor's encouraging words, "It is ok, Breno, tomorrow is a brand-new day," served as a constant reminder to overcome obstacles and persist in the face of challenges.
The Inception of Winfield Deli:
After five years of marriage and with impending parenthood, Breno felt it was time to venture out on his own. The perfect opportunity presented itself when Winfield Delicatessen, a local deli in East Norwalk, became available for purchase. Despite requiring some refurbishment, the deli boasted a loyal customer base and a reputable standing. On September 13, 2015, a mere 33 days after the birth of Breno's first son, he sold his inaugural subs at the original Winfield Street Deli. With the unwavering support of his wife, parents, and the valuable lessons gleaned from prior experiences, Breno embarked on a new chapter as a business owner.
Expanding the Winfield Brand:
Fuelled by ambition and an unwavering passion for growth, Breno seized subsequent opportunities for expansion. Acquiring a nearby coffee shop at the Westport train station allowed him to introduce breakfast sandwiches from Winfield Deli while delving into the realm of coffee. After meticulous research, Breno forged a partnership with Counter Culture Coffee, renowned for their commitment to quality and support for coffee shop partners. On February 1, 2016, Winfield Deli transformed into Winfield Street Coffee, captivating the hearts of coffee enthusiasts in Norwalk. The subsequent acquisition of Art's Delicatessen in Westport and the opening of their third location underscored Breno's unwavering pursuit of growth. The Winfield Street Coffee journey continued with the launch of outlets in Croton-On-Hudson, Stamford, and additional locations in Naples, Florida.
Success Amidst Challenges:
The unforeseen challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 tested Winfield Street Coffee and Deli's resilience. However, armed with determination and unwavering resolve, Breno and his team navigated the storm and emerged even stronger. Presently, Winfield Street Coffee and Deli operates numerous locations, including their flagship store in Stamford. The brand continues to expand, with plans underway for future locations in New York City, Rye, and beyond.
Gratitude and a Promising Future:
Throughout his arduous journey, Breno remains profoundly grateful for the unwavering support of his wife, who wholeheartedly believed in his vision and invested in their first store. He acknowledges his indebtedness to his parents and the Criscuolo family for their guidance and inspiration. Breno also credits his community college and university education for equipping him with the necessary skills. Moreover, he acknowledges the steadfast dedication of his staff and the support of his investors, who continue to fuel the growth of Winfield Street Coffee and Deli.
Naples (South)
Address: 1250 Tamiami Trail N # 111, Naples, FL 34102
Naples (North)
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