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A vibrant celebration of the authentic Italian flavors that have defined one family’s culinary legacy in South Florida for half a century.Coral Springs Today
John Flora, a 71-year-old Italian immigrant, is celebrating 50 years of operating authentic Italian restaurants and food distribution businesses in South Florida. Starting with a single pizza restaurant in Miami in the 1970s, Flora’s company has expanded to become one of the largest importers and distributors of Italian goods in the region, supplying major retailers. Today, Flora’s flagship restaurant in Coral Springs features a café, marketplace, and upscale Italian restaurant, showcasing the diverse cuisine of Italy.
Why it matters
Flora’s story is a testament to the power of the American dream and the enduring appeal of traditional Italian cuisine. His journey from a young immigrant opening a pizza shop to building a multi-faceted Italian food empire highlights how passion, hard work, and a commitment to quality can lead to long-term success, even in a competitive and changing market. As large corporations increasingly dominate the food industry, Flora’s family-owned business serves as an inspiring example of how independent, community-focused restaurants can thrive.
The details
In the 1970s, a young John Flora, then 21 years old, moved from Brooklyn to Miami and opened his first restaurant, frustrated by the lack of authentic Italian pizza in the area. Over the next several decades, Flora and his wife Irene grew their business, shifting from restaurant ownership to become major importers and distributors of Italian food and wine. Today, their products are sold in major retailers across the Southeast. In the early 2000s, the Floras returned to the restaurant business, opening their flagship location in Coral Springs. The multi-level facility includes a café, Italian marketplace, and upscale restaurant, Angela’s Bar & Kitchen, named after their daughter.
In the 1970s, John Flora opened his first restaurant in Miami.In the 1980s, the Floras transitioned their business to focus on importing and distributing Italian food and wine.In the early 2000s, the Floras opened their flagship restaurant complex in Coral Springs.
The players
John Flora
A 71-year-old Italian immigrant who founded a successful Italian restaurant and food distribution business in South Florida, celebrating 50 years in the industry.
Irene Flora
John Flora’s wife, who has been a partner in the family business for over four decades.
Angela Flora
The Floras’ daughter, who oversees the upscale Italian restaurant Angela’s Bar & Kitchen at the Coral Springs flagship location.
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What they’re saying
“Food is love. When you buy our products, you’re not just getting a meal, you’re getting a piece of our family and a taste of our love.”
— John Flora, Founder, Flora’s Italian Eatery
“There are so many special dishes that I’ve tried over the years that I wish we could get here. That’s why I wanted to open a restaurant—to bring people something new and show them how amazing these dishes can be.”
— Angela Flora, Daughter of John Flora, Overseer of Angela’s Bar & Kitchen
What’s next
The Flora family plans to continue expanding their restaurant and distribution businesses, bringing more authentic Italian cuisine and products to South Florida consumers.
The takeaway
John Flora’s 50-year journey from a young immigrant opening a pizza shop to building a thriving Italian food empire is an inspiring example of the American dream in action. His commitment to quality, family, and tradition has allowed his business to succeed and evolve, even as the food industry has become increasingly dominated by large corporations.
Dining and Cooking