Chef Larry Schepici

Chef Larry Schepici was born and trained in Boston, Mass.  With over 25 years of culinary experience, his travels eventually led him to the Capital Region.  Chef Larry has showcased his talents, and earned numerous awards, locally as the executive chef at the Tavern at Sterup Square, located outside Troy, NY and then at Sargo’s at Saratoga National Golf Club.  After falling in love with Troy during his days at Sterup Square, he was eager to return to the city.

Chef Larry is now the owner/proprietor of three businesses in downtown Troy, all opening within four years.  Chef Larry prides himself on utilizing only the best, local, organic ingredients whenever possible.  The Illium Café, his European-style café, specializes in gourmet soups, salads, and paninis as well as fresh baked goods.  Its ciabatta, coffee and greens all come from local purveyors.  At the award-winning Tosca, Chef Larry and his talented staff create culinary excellence at its best, preparing innovative regional American cuisine with a classic French foundation paired with the highest quality service.  Chef Larry’s most recent venture is Tosca Etc., a modest marketplace located right next door to Tosca serving affordable meals to-go in eco-friendly, reusable containers.  Tosca Etc. is filled with an abundant array of everyday necessities supplied by many local, organic farmers and artisians.  Chef Larry is not only a local business owner but a strong supporter of Troy and its revitalization.  He helped bring to Troy events such as the Chowderfest, The Troy Pig Out, the Chili Challenge and the Chef’s Pavilion featured every week at the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market.

Return to Cooking Classes.