Perso means “lost” in Italian. When I lived in Rome, I would intentionally get lost in the middle of the city to learn my way around.

We get lost in the search for our professional goals and happiness. Louisville has given me great joy doing what I love. 

As entrepreneurs/dreamers we all seek belonging, take risks, and hope things work out. I chose to move here for the opportunities available. When we opened Perso, its purpose was to be a business where we could showcase what we love and believe in, and work hard to make it an operational restaurant group to allow us to grow in this city.

Choosing the place where you start a new journey is always uncertain. You never know how people will react to your mission, if people will like or support your ideas. We’ll never be grateful enough for the love and support this city has given us. It has given us understanding of what and who we want to be, the drive to do better, and appreciation for all the people who made us who we are.

Perso has become a place where we tell our stories. It’s more than just a business for us. It’s where we learn from listening to our patrons and recognize what we have to improve. At Perso, we will continue our commitment, to work hard, and never stop educating ourselves.

Perso represents a mission to share our experiences and beliefs. 

-Chef/Owner Emil Davi