We recently had the chance to connect with Denise Righetti and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Denise, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I recently was recognized by the Women Empowering Women In Development Organization as a “Game Changer” in the category of Super Star – An Individual who uplifts with joy, excellence, and consistency.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Denise Righetti, Founder and CFO (Chief Foodie Officer) of Savor Our City™, an award-winning event planning company based in Boca Raton that creates connections through cuisine. I’m a second-generation South Floridian. I began my career in hospitality by working onboard cruise ships right after college — an experience that definitely sparked my love for food, travel, and bringing people together through memorable experiences.
At Savor Our City, we curate interactive culinary adventures — think food tours, cooking classes, mixology workshops, and wine tastings — designed to help people savor the local flavor wherever they are.
Right now, I’m thrilled about our upcoming Savor Boca – A Centennial Celebration, happening Saturday, December 6th in Mizner Park, Downtown Boca Raton. It’s one delicious day, two unforgettable events — a historical scavenger hunt and Centennial tasting tour with light bites and decade-inspired cocktails, all benefiting Brain Bowl Events for Alzheimer’s awareness.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A defining moment for me was when my parents sent me off to college. It was the first time I truly experienced independence — being on my own, making decisions, and realizing how much of the world was out there waiting to be explored. That sense of freedom gave me the confidence to travel solo, something that has shaped not only how I see the world but also how I connect with it.
Some of my most meaningful adventures — and life lessons — came from traveling alone. It taught me to be curious, open-minded, and comfortable stepping outside my comfort zone. I learned that the world is full of beautiful experiences and people, if you’re willing to say yes to them. That same mindset is what I bring into my work today: helping others discover connection, culture, and joy through shared experiences — whether they arrive solo or as part of a group.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
If I’m being honest, the fear that’s probably held me back the most is the worry that I won’t have the right team, partner, or funding in place to scale my business in the time frame I envision. I’ve always had a clear vision for where I want to take Savor Our City — and with that comes the pressure of wanting to see it all come together just right.
As a founder, you quickly learn that you can’t do it all alone. Building something meaningful takes collaboration, trust, and resources. My challenge has been learning to release some of that control and have faith that the right people and opportunities will align at the right time. I’ve learned that growth doesn’t always follow our exact timeline — but if you stay focused, persistent, and open, it unfolds exactly when it’s meant to.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I’d have to say my best friend, Kathy. She’s incredibly intelligent, thoughtful, and one of the few people who isn’t afraid to tell me the truth — even when it’s not easy to hear. I really value that about her. She has a way of seeing situations clearly and offering perspective without judgment or fluff. Her honesty keeps me grounded and accountable, especially when I’m juggling a million ideas or second-guessing a big decision. Everyone needs someone in their life who will tell them what they need to hear, not just what they want to hear — and for me, that’s Kathy.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say that I made a difference — that I brought people together in meaningful ways and helped them experience the joy of connection through food, culture, and community. I want to be remembered as someone who led with heart and curiosity, who followed her passions fearlessly, and who always made others feel seen, valued, and included.
If the story people tell about me is that I created opportunities for laughter, discovery, and togetherness — that I encouraged others to savor life, one bite and one moment at a time — then I’ll know I’ve done what I was meant to do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.SavorOurCity.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savorourcity
- Linkedin: www.linkedin/in/deniserighetti
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deniserighetti1
- Yelp: Savor Our City Culinary Tours
- Youtube: @SavorOurCity
