USAG Wiesbaden bids farewell to a beloved community favorite, Little Italy

It is with a blend of joy and bittersweet sentiment that this story reaches you all. Our beloved Caesar Micelotte, the heart and soul behind Little Italy, is hanging up his apron and retiring after 26 wonderful years. The road to Caesar's longevity in this community was not always a clear path and he encountered some challenges along the way, but of course that did not hamper his spirit. He persevered, and through running Little Italy, he experienced a life changing journey.

Ceasar's story is one of passion and dedication. He started in Friedberg, moved to Wiesbaden and operated the restaurant out of the American Arms Hotel, then moved his operation to Clay Kaserne in 2011, out of sheer love and passion and has built such a strong bond with the community here in Wiesbaden.

"The one thing we appreciate the most about Caesar is his devotion to providing good service. We always knew once Caesar locked in an event or a reservation, all the necessary details would be completed and worked with the professionalism and passion Little Italy became so famous for," said Mark Smith, Chief, Business Operations Division.

He often gets asked why he chose to open a restaurant on a military base and his answer is always, they are not just Soldiers to me, they are so much more. They give back so much to me every day, their sacrifice, the stories they carry with them when they are moved all over the world to protect us, they are very special to me.

What Caesar is most touched by are the young people who come here. Arriving to Wiesbaden as their first duty station, they are scared and don't know anyone, they are away from their families and friends, and navigating an entirely new world. Caesar watches them grow, move up in rank, get married, have children and then gets the opportunity to know their children. It is like having a large family, which Italians are known for.

"I love people, they make me happy," said Caesar.

Little Italy is not just a business, not just a restaurant, it is so much more, and it has changed my life, said Caesar.

That is evident when speaking to him and seeing the emotion and passion he has for this community. He stated that his mind is full of beautiful memories. He created an environment that made everyone feel at home. Caesar's welcoming attitude and love for those around him has been a staple for Little Italy, turning first-time visitors into lifelong friends.

Corinna Faulk, Business Manager and COR for Little Italy said, "we have been very fortunate to have Caesar and his team as part of our overall MWR team as a food and beverage contractor."

Little Italy reminds folks of the television show "Cheers", where everybody knows your name. The immediate warmth is evident when you walk into the establishment. While I had the pleasure of sitting and talking with Caesar, a Soldier asked to speak to him about his promotion ceremony that is being hosted at his restaurant. The Soldier just wanted to be assured that everything was set up and good to go, that there were no loose ends. Caesar, with a smile on his face, patted the Soldier on the shoulder reassured him that everything was fine, and that he just needed to show up. The immediate look of relief was visible, and the young man went on his way.

"This is why I do this" said Caesar, to take care of our brave men and women who serve.

As Caesar steps into this new chapter of his life, we look back with gratitude. Little Italy has fed many of the Wiesbaden community members, but more than the food, it is the memories we cherish-the laughter, the conversations, and the community he has fostered. To the loyal customers of Little Italy, thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Your support and friendship have made Little Italy what it is today-a testament to Caesar's hard work and devotion. While he may no longer be at the restaurant, his spirit will always linger in every dish served.

"If you love what you do, you never work a day in your life"

From here on, what is certain is that the USAG Wiesbaden Community will not be the same without him. Although he says,

"This place has made me a better person."

We believe Caesar has made us a better community, giving us a place to come home to. It is with heartfelt gratitude that we say farewell and good luck to Caesar as he takes on this next journey of life. The doors to Little Italy will close officially on July 31, 2024. We will announce a new opening and contractor in the near future.

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