About US
The inspiration behind Dolce is to provide high quality with ease in all we do. From our fine wines and full bar, fabulous small dishes and entrees, exquisite meats and cheeses, to our artisan furnishings, our sweet and knowledgeable team strive to provide the ultimate dining and wine experience in a warm and whimsical environment.
STEVEN FLOWERS
General Manager and Wine Wizard
Steven brings a wealth of restaurant, wine, merriment and management to Dolce. Having served as Captain for the Ritz Carlton in Houston, Steve came to his senses and migrated west to San Diego to wear his Captain’s hat at Donovan’s. His next stop was to open eight restaurants, including several with local restaurateur, Robbie Vigilucci. During his tenure with Vigilucci’s Restaurant Group, Steve had command of many functions, including catering, wine director, and general management. A graduate of California Culinary Academy in San Diego, Steve is a level one Sommelier, and working very hard on acquiring his level two Czar of Mirth and Merriment.
Chris O'Donnell
Executive Chef and Hair Model
After graduating from the San Diego Culinary Institute in 2003, Chris worked at a number of notable restaurants including Encinitas' Savory, with Chef Pascal Vignau, and Del Mar's Arterra, with Chefs Bradley Ogden and Carl Schroeder. In 2006, Chris joined Schroeder as Sous Chef opening the Market Restaurant in Del Mar. During this time, he collaborated with Schroeder to develop menu items utilizing local seasonal produce and the finest ingredients available. After several years, Chris left the restaurant business to perfect his fresh, modern, cuisine as a personal chef, and his ability to "curl his hair on the fly".
Dr. Anthony F. Smith
Czar of Mirth and Merriment, Owner
Anthony (Tony) brings many years of worldwide restaurant research to Dolce, where he has traveled nearly ten million miles experiencing the best in standard and fine cuisine, as well as the finest wines from around the world. As a management consultant and a business author, Tony's passion is learning from the best, and in turn creating environments where the most talented team of professionals strive to provide an unprecedented dining experience, filled with warmth, quality food, and service – and yes, Mirth and Merriment.