ABOUT TUSCANY
More than a meal, a visit to Tuscany is a return to a slower, richer way of life. Whether dining fireside in our grand dining room, enjoying a glass of wine in the garden-view Terrario, or hosting an event in one of our private spaces, guests are welcomed with warmth, grace, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like family.
Tuscany isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a destination. One you’ll return to, season after season.
TUSCANY’S HISTORY
The Knudsen’s
The wooded neighborhood where Tuscany now stands has been cherished by generations of families, lovers of mountain scenery, and those seeking a hearty meal.
In 1878, Rasmus Knudsen, the original pioneer of the area, admired the area for the lovely wooded landscape—just as Tuscany’s patio visitors do now. Back in 1878, however, the beautiful forest served a different purpose than the aesthetic one it does today: Rasmus Knudsen made smart use of the trees by harvesting them for some saw mills he’d constructed nearby. Rasmus was well known for his expertise in building many types of mills, and nearest to where Tuscany stands today, he had a flour mill that operated for about 30 years.
Rasmus’ son, Rudolph, also had a fondness for the trees and the gorgeous view of the Wasatch mountain range. He established a popular campsite about a half mile from his father’s flour mill. This campsite came to be known as Knudsen’s Grove, and by 1922, the campsite had nine sleeping cabins and “Knudsen’s Inn”—a country lunch stand that was a local legend for its “toasted buttered-bun” hamburgers.
Becoming Tuscany
As the years passed, the property changed hands and names—Dyer’s Inn, The Heather, and The Bridlewood Restaurant—each evolution hinting at the greatness to come.
Aaron Ferer
In the mid-1990s, visionary entrepreneur Aaron Ferer set out to bring the charm and sophistication of his acclaimed Italian restaurants in the San Francisco Bay Area to the foothills of Utah. Inspired by the idea of creating a neighborhood retreat that felt both refined and welcoming, he found the perfect setting in Holladay—a historic grove rich with legacy and character.
In 1996, alongside NBA All-Star Mark Eaton and hospitality expert Gary Francis, Aaron transformed the property into what would become Tuscany—a destination that embodied the rustic elegance of Northern Italy. Together, the trio reimagined the structure into
Mark Eaton
a grand villa, where warm stone walls, hand-hewn beams, roaring fireplaces, and flickering candlelight created a setting that was both intimate and unforgettable.
From the beginning, Tuscany was more than a restaurant—it was a place designed to celebrate life’s finest moments. With handcrafted pastas, wood-fired specialties, and a thoughtfully curated wine list, the menu quickly earned critical acclaim from Zagat and national reviewers alike.
The Vision of Guy Wadsworth
Guy Wadsworth
In 2006, Tuscany entered a new era under the stewardship of Guy Wadsworth, a visionary whose passion for detail and design transformed Tuscany from a remarkable restaurant into a living masterpiece.
With an eye for beauty and a reverence for tradition, Guy introduced an immersive seasonal experience unlike anything else in Utah. Today, Tuscany evolves with the calendar—each season bringing a full transformation of the décor, ambiance, and mood. Over $100,000 annually is invested into intricate seasonal displays, elegant floral installations, and holiday embellishments that elevate every visit into a sensory journey.
Guests return again and again to witness Tuscany’s breathtaking transformations:
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A sea of romantic florals and candlelight for Valentine’s Day
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Elegant pastels and springtime bloom for Easter and Mother’s Day
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Patriotic grace for Memorial and Veterans Day
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Rich autumnal tones for Thanksgiving
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And a magical winter wonderland for Christmas and New Year’s, where the restaurant glows with warmth, grandeur, and festive splendor
Every detail is curated to perfection. Every season tells a new story.
Franck’s: An Intimate Culinary Escape
That same year, the historic brick cottage on the property—once home to Edythe Smith—was transformed into Franck’s, an intimate, single-room restaurant that has become a destination in its own right. French-inspired and elegantly restrained, Franck’s offers a culinary experience both personal and exquisite—tailored for those with a truly discerning palate.
Today at Tuscany
Tuscany continues to stand as a testament to what happens when passion, history, and hospitality come together with intention. From private celebrations in the garden-view Terrario, to multi-course evenings by the fire, every experience is infused with grace, warmth, and timeless elegance.
Whether you are joining us for the first time or returning to mark another cherished moment, Tuscany invites you to slow down, savor deeply, and become part of a story that grows richer with every season.
Bellissimo Gardens: A Natural Extension of Elegance
In his unwavering pursuit to elevate Tuscany’s legacy, Guy Wadsworth envisioned a space where nature’s splendor and refined celebration coalesce. Adjacent to the esteemed Tuscany Restaurant, he acquired a neighboring parcel of land, transforming it into what is now known as
Bellissimo Gardens.
Nestled at the base of Mount Olympus, Bellissimo Gardens stands as Utah’s premier outdoor venue, offering an enchanting setting for weddings, receptions, and distinguished events. The gardens boast a series of meticulously designed spaces, each exuding its own unique charm:
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The Gazebo: A central ceremonial structure, perfect for exchanging vows under the open sky.
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The Iron Forest: An artistic enclave featuring handcrafted iron trees amidst lush greenery.
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The River Stone Pavilion: A shaded haven ideal for dining and dancing.
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The Wishing Fountain: A picturesque fountain marking the commencement of the ceremonial walkway.
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Brides Passage: A grand allée leading guests through the gardens, setting a majestic tone for any event.
Complementing the culinary excellence of Tuscany and Franck’s, Bellissimo Gardens offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and sophisticated ambiance, ensuring every occasion is both memorable and unique.