The Cipriani family’s hospitality empire traces its beginnings back to a dead-end street in Venice’s Piazza San Marco. It was here, tucked in a compact 500-square-foot abandoned rope warehouse, that Giuseppe Cipriani opened a bar in 1931.
In the years prior to this debut, Giuseppe was working as a barman at the city’s Europa Hotel, where he met a young American named Harry Pickering, who found himself stranded in Venice without the funds to return home. Giuseppe offered him a loan, and a few years later, Pickering returned not only to repay the debt but to provide a generous sum that allowed Giuseppe to open a bar of his own—a place he aptly named Harry’s Bar.
Fast forward 93 years later, and the Cipriani business is now in its fourth generation of ownership, helmed by brothers Ignazio and Maggio, with a global portfolio that spans restaurants, hotels, residences, event venues, and private clubs in cities across the globe.
Casa Cipriani Milano is housed in the historic Palazzo Bernasconi, an early-20th-century former residence
The brothers have introduced Cipriani to new clientele with the launch of the hotel and private members concept Casa Cipriani in New York, Milan, and soon Miami; their independent hospitality concept, Mr. C Hotels and Residences; and Harry’s Table, a culinary-focused venue with a market, catering, and private event spaces.
Despite its international expansion, the Cipriani standard remains steadfast, with service and quality at the forefront, all within spaces that embody a timeless luxury.
Maggio—who, prior to stepping into a leadership role, worked alongside his grandfather and father in Cipriani locations worldwide and spent his formative years at Harry’s Bar—shares how he’s leading the family business into its most exciting chapter yet.
What was it like growing up in the hospitality industry?
Maggio Cipriani: Conversations often revolved around food and service, and we learned early on that the hospitality business demands long hours and hard work. But we also breathed in the passion for this life and felt the joy of putting a smile on people’s faces. I remember being the shortest person at Harry’s Bar, shadowing my grandfather. Soon, I found myself working at the cashier, where my height was less noticeable.
With architecture by Arquitectonica and interiors by Meyer Davis, the Mr. C Residences Jumeirah boasts curved forms reminiscent of flowing water
Why did you decide to join the family business?
MC: School was not my strong suit, and joining the business felt like a natural choice. Fortunately, I discovered a true passion for it. I’m lucky to have exceptional examples in my family who I can look up to and learn from.
What did you learn from your grandfather and father?
MC: My grandfather and father taught me that if you don’t have enthusiasm for this job, then choose another career. This work requires commitment, long days, attention to detail, and a welcoming attitude—no matter what may be happening in your personal life.
How are you and your brother Ignazio evolving the Cipriani legacy?
MC: We’re committed to keeping the core values that have defined Cipriani for four generations. My brother is focused on expanding the Mr. C Hotels and Residences brand, a concept that merges Old World charm with modern sensibility. I’m working on developing the Casa Cipriani brand and overseeing Cipriani venues, particularly in the U.S. and Europe.
Dark wood and a patterned carpet envelops the living room at Casa Cipriani Milano, designed by Michele Bönan
What are some exciting new openings you can share with us?
MC: The brand’s global expansion sometimes involves multiple projects opening simultaneously. Recently, we opened a Cipriani Pool and Beach in Bahrain and inaugurated a Jazz Café at Cipriani Beverly Hills. In Miami Brickell, we’re constructing about 400 luxury residences, and we’re in the design phase of a Casa Cipriani on the beach. In Punta del Este, Uruguay, we’re developing the largest luxury project in South America—Cipriani Resort, Residences, and Casino—with the first phase opening in December 2025. We’re also working on a project in Batumi, Georgia, and exploring properties for future Casa Cipriani locations in Europe.
Why did you want to create a membership club with Casa Cipriani?
MC: When we had the opportunity to develop this stunning Beaux-Arts ferry terminal on the East River in New York, we realized it could bring together everything we’ve built over the years in hospitality. I also felt there was a void for a members experience inspired by British clubs—a comfortable, elegant, and private environment where members from various backgrounds and ages could feel at home.
Then you brought the concept to Milan.
MC: Milan has evolved over the years, becoming a destination for investors, creatives, and, of course, the fashion world. This vibrant scene and the success of Casa Cipriani New York made Milan the perfect choice for a second location in the historic Palazzo Bernasconi, a former stately home from the early 20th century.
Rich fabrics and oak floors are anchored by a Venetian chandelier in the signature suite at Casa Cipriani Milano
Next up is the Cipriani Resort Residences and Casino in San Rafael.
MC: The project is designed by Rafael Viñoly Architects and features a faithful recreation of the iconic Tudor-style San Rafael Hotel, once a glamorous destination for celebrities and politicians coming to Uruguay. [It also features] residential towers ranging from 30 to 60 stories tall, three restaurants, a conference center, casino, spa, beach club, outdoor pool, boutiques, and incredible amenities. It will add a level of service and sophistication appreciated by South Americans and international visitors who will find a home overlooking spectacular beaches, in a country that is extremely safe and offers also a friendly tax environment.
You’ve also gone all in on branded residences. What can we expect from the Mr. C Residences in West Palm Beach?
MC: West Palm Beach is emerging as one of South Florida’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, and [Mr. C Residences] will be the first branded luxury real estate development [there]. It will include a 25-story condominium hotel with 110 rooms alongside 146 curated residences, lush landscaping, an amenity deck, and a Bellini restaurant and lounge.
The Mr. C Residences Coconut Grove in Florida rises in a curvilinear frame by Arquitectonica, evoking a sail catching the wind
Has your guest profile changed over the years?
MC: Today, we cater to three generations, with younger guests becoming an increasingly important and demanding demographic.
How did the signature peach puree Cipriani Bellini come about?
MC: My great grandfather loved the small, white peaches that are in season in Italy from June to September. He experimented with pureeing them and adding Prosecco, naming it the Bellini after the Renaissance painter. It quickly became part of our culture and a global favorite.
Best piece of advice you’ve received?
MC: Focus on what you’re doing and don’t get distracted by others.
This article originally appeared in HD’s November 2024 issue.
