Chef • Cellist • Restaurateur
Chef Richard Bock
From concert halls around the world to one of Phoenix's most beloved Italian restaurants.
From Classical Music to Italian Hospitality
Long before becoming the owner of Giuseppe's On 28th, Richard Bock built an extraordinary career as a classical cellist. According to Feenotes, Bock began playing cello at age twelve, studied at Juilliard, and became a principal musician with the American Symphony Orchestra.
His music career eventually took him to Florence, Italy, where he performed with the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Orchestra. Those years in Florence would later shape the spirit of Giuseppe's On 28th, giving Richard a deep connection to Italian culture, food, and hospitality.
After returning to the United States and eventually settling in Phoenix, Richard performed with the Phoenix Symphony while also creating a second life as a restaurateur.
Bringing Florence to Phoenix
The Story Behind Giuseppe's
When Richard became the owner of Giuseppe's On 28th, he brought with him memories, recipes, and inspiration from his years living in Florence. The restaurant became known for authentic Italian comfort food, generous portions, and warm hospitality.
His days were famously full: opening the restaurant in the morning, leaving for rehearsal, and returning later to greet guests, recommend dishes, and help close the restaurant.
“Next time you’re in Phoenix, make sure to order the cannolis... Ask for the cellist.”
— FeenotesA Remarkable Life in Music and Food
Richard Bock begins studying cello.
He studies at the prestigious Juilliard School.
Bock becomes a principal musician with the American Symphony Orchestra, according to Feenotes.
He performs with the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Orchestra and spends years immersed in Italian culture.
Richard performs with the Phoenix Symphony and becomes the owner of Giuseppe's On 28th.
Giuseppe's On 28th becomes a beloved Phoenix Italian restaurant.
Music, Food, and Memory
Richard's story made Giuseppe's more than a restaurant. It was a meeting place between art, food, travel, and community. Guests came for Italian dishes, but many left with a story: the owner was not only a restaurateur, but a world-traveled musician who had performed on major stages and recordings.
Today, this page preserves part of that legacy for longtime guests, Phoenix restaurant history lovers, and anyone searching for the story behind Giuseppe's On 28th.