Last night Sapore celebrated its 25th anniversary with the blow-out party of the year. At least 300 people filled the restaurant, the sidewalk and extra tables set outside as Elio and team were feeling the love. A Who’s Who of locals and a few non-B’gamers (mostly politicians) showed up to hear the speeches and cut the ribbon with the giant scissors.

Since it was hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, CEO Susan Baker kicked it off followed by Mayor-for-another-month Michael Brownrigg. Michael compared Sapore owner and Citizen of the Year Elio D’Urzo to a Ferrari. Fast, beautiful and, per some at the city, a lot of maintenance required. It was all in good fun with a speck of truth to it. He noted that he had cut many ribbons in town but had never had as many people behind him as in front of him. Elio said a few warm words punctuated with arm-waving, but the speech of the night was an impromptu accolade from long-time server Sahara. She noted how Elio has a personal relationship with everyone who was there (all 300+) and was by far the best boss she has ever had taking an interest in her and her family. It was a tear-jerker and I can’t really do it justice— you had to be there. Perry D’Andrea did his best Frank Sinatra schtick while food and drink flowed all night as it usually does and everyone had a blast. Here’s the crowd>