Our Story
Created by chef and restaurant owner, Steve DeRaffele, who has a severe gluten allergy, Rio Cheesecakes was created to bring the classic New York style cheesecake to the table in a format that’s gluten friendly, operationally efficient, and easy to execute during service.
THE SECRET FAMILY RECIPE
The DeRaffele family famously manufactured and built some of the most iconic diners in and around the NY area, building generational connections with the owners and families of those diners and restaurants. When Stephen made the leap to open his own restaurant, Pinky's in Richmond, VA, there was a very famous family cheesecake at one of their favorite diners, and that recipe was passed along to him to make his own. After a few test versions and a handmade crust, the gluten free single serve cheesecake was born.
THE FAMILY NAME
The name "Rio" connects to Stephen’s late mother’s maiden name, Gregorio, as she was the driving inspiration behind his restaurant and what blossomed and led to the launch of Rio Cheesecakes.
