Alec
Chef/Proprietor Alec Schuler was born and raised in New York by immigrant European parents. Extensive world travels have strongly influenced his outlook on world cuisines, and his interest has been consistently drawn back to northern Italian food and wine. Alec is a graduate of CU Boulder (1995) and Manhattan's Natural Gourmet Cookery School (2001). Always mindful of the importance of a wholesome and healthy diet, his nutrition-oriented culinary training fits his lifestyle, and now - with Arugula Bar e Ristorante - Alec is able to share his take on Italy's varied cuisines.
James
Front of the house manager James Bucci was born and raised in central Illinois. Inspired by family tradition he took an early interest in food and wine, which has since grown into his passion for pairing them. Many Sundays of his youth were spent at his grandmothers, where she cooked all day to bring the family wonderful classic Italian food. His talent for bringing people, food and wine together has culminated with his joining Alec Schuler to open Arugula Bar e Ristorante. The contemporary, yet classic cuisine mixed with an eclectic wine list will provide limitless fusions of flavor for the senses.