Chicago’s ‘Celebrity Chef’ Exposed? Gigi Rovito Accused of Enforcer Role in Massive Mob-Linked Gambling Ring

• Chef “Gigi” Rovito accused of threatening gambling debtors in federal case
• Burr Ridge mayor publicly defends Rovito despite alleged Outfit-linked connections
• FBI raids expose sprawling illegal gambling network tied to suburban restaurants

One of the men charged last week with involvement in a sprawling Northwest Indiana illegal gambling operation is a “quasi-celebrity” social media chef with alleged ties to the Chicago Outfit.

According to federal court documents, when he was asked to shake down a gambler who owed money to the operation, chef Filippo “Gigi” Rovito said he was going to “knock [the victim’s] lights out and shove his head into a [gaming] machine.”

But Gary Grasso, mayor of Burr Ridge, Ill., where Rovito runs Capri Ristorante, is standing by the chef and alleged enforcer, describing him to NBC 5 Chicago as “a stellar corporate and residential citizen” who has “a YouTube following of a quarter of a million people or something like that.”

Grasso’s endorsement may stem from the fact that he’s a big fan of Capri – and the feeling appears to be mutual. The restaurant has created a dish in his honor, “Linguini alla Mayor Grasso” – a pasta that comes with “fresh tomato sauce and basil, tossed with a touch of olive oil, and topped with fresh ricotta.”

Porterhouse Parlay

Rovito was among 22 people arrested in coordinated raids by the FBI April 29 following a long-running investigation dubbed “Operation Porterhouse Parlay,” which allegedly uncovered links between illegal gambling operations and restaurant networks spanning Northwest Indiana and suburban Chicago.

The ringleaders of the group are alleged to be James “Jimmy the Greek” Gerodemos and “Dean Gem” Gialamas, who prosecutors say used businesses including Gino’s Steak House in Merrillville and Paragon restaurant in Hobart as operational hubs or meeting places.

Federal prosecutors allege the enterprise generated millions of dollars through illegal sports betting, video gambling and loansharking operations, with members using intimidation and violence — or the threat of it — to collect debts.

Don’t Mention the Mob

On social media, Rovito was known for flamboyant cooking videos, oversized Italian feasts, and celebrity-style branding tied to his restaurant. But court filings paint him as a trusted associate willing to enforce payments when gamblers fell behind.

Charges include illegal gambling conspiracy, extortionate debt collection and money laundering.

Rovito was released from federal custody after posting a $1 million secured bond and is currently on home detention with electronic monitoring, pending trial.