Saro Gullo was a Sicilian chef known for his deep passion for food, love for his family, and dedication to preserving cultural traditions. His story gained worldwide recognition after his wife, actress and author Tembi Locke, shared their journey in her memoir From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home.
Beyond his skills in the kitchen, Saro’s life was defined by love and resilience. His marriage to Tembi Locke was a testament to the power of love that transcends cultural differences. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising their daughter while facing the hardships of a life-altering illness.
About Saro Gullo
Saro Gullo was born and raised in Sicily, Italy, a region known for its rich culinary traditions. His upbringing in a place where food plays a central role in daily life deeply influenced his passion for cooking. From an early age, he developed a love for Sicilian cuisine, embracing the use of fresh, local ingredients and time-honored recipes passed down through generations.
While much of his early life remains private, Saro’s dedication to his craft and culture was evident in everything he did. His journey eventually led him to Florence, Italy, where he worked as a chef. It was there that he met Tembi Locke, an American actress studying abroad. Their connection was instant and powerful, though their relationship faced challenges, particularly from Saro’s traditional Sicilian family, who initially struggled to accept his marriage to a foreigner.
Despite these cultural differences, Saro and Tembi’s love endured. They later moved to the United States, where they built a life together, embracing both their Italian and American backgrounds while raising their daughter.
Saro Gullo Career As A Chef
Saro Gullo dedicated his life to the art of cooking. His career as a chef was deeply rooted in Sicilian traditions, where food was not just about nourishment but also about storytelling and preserving cultural heritage.
In Florence, he honed his skills in traditional Italian kitchens, working in professional settings that emphasized fresh ingredients, classic techniques, and a deep respect for culinary traditions. His cooking philosophy was centered on seasonal produce, homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and slow-cooked meats, all staples of Sicilian cuisine.
After moving to the United States, Saro continued to cook with the same passion. While he did not become a celebrity chef or open a widely known restaurant, he made a lasting impact by sharing his love for food with family and friends.
Saro Gullo Restaurant
There are no public records of Saro Gullo owning a restaurant. However, his expertise in Italian and Sicilian cooking made him an exceptional chef in both professional and personal settings.
Cooking was more than a profession for Saro; it was a way to connect with people. His meals brought family and friends together, allowing them to experience the depth of Sicilian culture through food.
Saro Gullo Family
Family was at the heart of Saro Gullo’s life. His bond with Tembi Locke and their daughter, Zoela, was unbreakable. Despite the challenges of cultural differences and an unexpected illness, he remained devoted to his loved ones.
Saro Gullo Daughter – Zoela
Saro Gullo and Tembi Locke shared a deep love for their daughter, Zoela Gullo. As a father, Saro was loving and supportive, ensuring that Zoela was connected to her Sicilian and African American heritage.
Food played a major role in Zoela’s childhood, as Saro passed down his love for Sicilian cooking, teaching her about the importance of fresh ingredients and home-cooked meals. Even after his passing, his influence on Zoela’s life remained strong, with Tembi ensuring that their daughter stayed connected to her father’s legacy and cultural identity.
Saro Gullo Mother
Saro’s mother played a significant role in his life. As a traditional Sicilian woman, she held strong cultural expectations, particularly regarding marriage and family. When Saro chose to marry Tembi Locke, an African American woman from the United States, his mother initially struggled to accept their relationship.
Over time, however, their relationship evolved. Through shared experiences and the love they both had for Saro, they built an understanding and mutual respect.
Is Saro Gullo’s Mother Still Alive?
There is limited public information available about Saro Gullo’s mother’s current status. After Saro’s passing, she maintained a connection with Tembi and Zoela, showing that love and family bonds could endure beyond loss.
Health Challenges & Passing
In 2002, Saro Gullo was diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer that originates in the body’s smooth muscles. This diagnosis marked the beginning of a long and challenging battle that lasted for ten years.
His journey through cancer was not just about medical treatments; it was about resilience, love, and the power of support. Tembi Locke became his primary caregiver, standing by his side through every stage of his illness.
Even as his health declined, Saro remained dedicated to his family. In 2012, after a decade-long battle with cancer, he passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and cultural heritage.
Saro Gullo: The Real Story Behind Netflix’s From Scratch
From Scratch is a Netflix limited series inspired by Tembi Locke’s memoir, From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home. The narrative centers on Amy Wheeler, portrayed by Zoe Saldaña, an American student who travels to Italy and falls in love with Lino, a Sicilian chef. Their relationship faces numerous challenges, including cultural differences and unforeseen hardships, as they build a life together.
The series delves into themes of love, loss, and resilience, capturing the essence of cross-cultural relationships and the complexities that accompany them. Upon its release, From Scratch quickly resonated with audiences, securing the number-one spot on Netflix with 72 million hours watched in its first week.
Tembi Locke, who co-wrote and executive produced the series, drew from her personal experiences of living in Italy and her marriage to Rosario “Saro” Gullo, a Sicilian chef. Her authentic portrayal adds depth and sincerity to the story, offering viewers a heartfelt exploration of love and the human spirit.
Summary
Saro Gullo was more than just a chef; he was a man who lived with passion, love, and a deep appreciation for family and tradition. His journey from Sicily to the United States was filled with challenges, but through it all, he remained devoted to his loved ones and his craft.
His story, as told in From Scratch, continues to inspire people around the world. Through his food, family, and unwavering love, his legacy lives on, reminding us that the most meaningful parts of life are often found in the simplest moments—shared meals, heartfelt conversations, and the bonds that withstand time.
