Enzio, "J.R." or "The Grinch" to his friends, was just thirty years old but he brought a lifetime of experience to his position as Head Chef at the Rice House.

J.R.'s hard-working family has owned restaurants in Queens, New York, and Georgetown, Washington D.C., since he was a boy. Since he worked side-by-side with his brother, three sisters and parents, he learned first-hand the secrets of preparing fresh, savory foods at a quick pace. In fact, the earned the nickname "Chef Grinch" (named after his favorite Dr. Suess character, not because he is miserly with food portions) when he worked as what is known as a "slammer" in the restaurant industry. (A slammer is known for the ability to turn out quality food at an accelerated pace.)

But it is J.R.'s own struggle with food and weight that endeared him to those who come to the Rice Diet Program. A self-described 400 pound kid, his weight eventually soared to nearly 700 pounds. J.R. first came to the Program in '91 and was quite successful. But like so many, he continued to fight the battle over the next years. He returned to Durham, lost weight and eventually decided upon gastric-bypass surgery combined with the Rice Diet Program which he credits with saving his life.

He's down to 270 pounds on this 6'2" frame and considers himself a work in progress. He took the job as Head Chef in '98.

"I understand eating disorders and the fear and desperation that brings a patient to our doorway. In some small way, I think I can help. I can assure people that the fear which motivated them to come will pay-off if they stick to the Program", says J.R.

"I look at this as an opportunity for me to reassure and encourage patients at a time when it is so crucial. That's what I like best about the job."

Does he have a pet peeve? You bet. "I don't like it when patients lie to themselves and try to redesign the program or throw someone else off base. Sometimes they lose thirty pounds and become an expert. Let's face it. This is a lifetime commitment. People need to be realistic and follow the staff's advice. This program works. Guaranteed."

J.R. notes that the Program is still salt and dairy free but as Head Chef, he did use herbs and seasonings to enhance flavor. "I work with our dietitians, Susan Montgomery and Kitty Rosati, and take methods I learned at the family restaurant and re-work them using Rice House standards." His most requested recipes included stuffed mushrooms, hash browns, lasagna, cold and Italian potato salads.

J.R. enjoyed spending a great deal of his all-too-scarce free time in the company of dieters attending concerts, games, movies, etc. His hobbies include working on his house, collecting art and babying his '84 Jeep CJ7.

He's got lots of funny Rice House stories to share with willing listeners, including the time he spotted and then followed a dieter as he pulled into Bo-Jangles (a fast food place) after he left the Rice House. Yikes!

You gotta' love this guy.


Back to Top