“Our belief in supporting our neighborhoods has strongly anchored our business establishments into the fabric of the community we serve and live. Such achievements are directly correlated to the strong dedication and hard work of our staff. We are extremely proud to receive this award not only on behalf of our restaurants but on behalf of all our colleagues in the restaurant industry whose effort has made Staten Island a better place to live and raise our families.”— Julian Gaxholli, Chef/Owner
Beso and Bayou are two thriving restaurants on the North Shore of Staten Island, created by Albanian chef and restaurateur Julian Gaxholl. Beso is a Spanish cuisine and tapas bar in St. George and Bayou is a French Quarter-themed bistro housed in an 80-year old brick building, formerly the Side Street Saloon, in Rosebank. Julian is a community-minded business owner, who participates in many charitable events and donates food for non-profits, including one that rebuilds homes in New Orleans.