Villa Portofino owners sell restaurant and hotel

Hotel Villa Portofino owners Tom and Gina Cappannelli recently announced the sale of their property on Catalina Island. Hotel Villa Portofino and Ristorante Villa Portofino have been sold to Eat, Drink, Sleep, a San Diego-based company that owns and operates “urban retreats in unexpected places.” The hotel and restaurant officially transferred to the new owners are Oct 21.

Hotel Villa Portofino owners Tom and Gina Cappannelli recently announced the sale of their property on Catalina Island. Hotel Villa Portofino and Ristorante Villa Portofino have been sold to Eat, Drink, Sleep, a San Diego-based company that owns and operates “urban retreats in unexpected places.” The hotel and restaurant officially transferred to the new owners are Oct 21.

The hotel and restaurant property originally named Scaris, was purchased by the Cappannellis’ in 1976. In 1984 the Cappannelli’s rebranded the Hotel Villa Portofino and opened Ristorante Villa Portofino and subsequently elevated the culinary standards on the Island. In a short period the Ristorante gained both national and international recognition for its design and authentic Italian cusine. The owners built a successful business over 40 years serving visitors to Catalina Island.

“We have given great care in selecting EDS as the new owners. We have found the right fit for this transition. EDS will fully support our esteemed and loyal staff, who can expect full support, and will be safe and secure with this new direction,” said Tom Cappannelli. “I am confident that EDS will maintain the quality standards that have brought us success and that their future will be bright as they work on business development and introduce their creative lifestyle brand.”