Steve and Dina Samson
Rossoblu - Los Angeles, CA
Steve and Dina Samson are the husband-and-wife duo behind some of Los Angeles’ most beloved dining destinations, including Rossoblu, Superfine Pizza, and Superfine Playa. Together, they co-founded Mighty Nice Hospitality Group, a reflection of their shared passion for food, community, and creating spaces that bring people together.
Chef Steve Samson draws inspiration from his hometown of Los Angeles and his mother’s native Bologna, Italy—an influence showcased at Rossoblu, which opened in 2017 to critical acclaim. The restaurant was named one of the top ten in Los Angeles by the late Jonathan Gold and one of Robb Report’s 10 Best New Restaurants in America. Steve also helms Superfine Pizza, opened in 2018, blending New York and Neapolitan styles with Southern California’s seasonal bounty. Previously, the Samsons owned Sotto, a Southern Italian restaurant that earned accolades from Los Angeles Magazine and Esquire.
Steve began his culinary career after graduating from the Institute of Culinary Education in New York. He worked under legendary restaurateur Piero Selvaggio at Valentino, eventually serving as executive chef at the Santa Monica flagship, which earned a Michelin star and a three-star LA Times review during his tenure. Steve also trained in some of Italy’s most revered kitchens, including Dal Pescatore and Il Duomo.
Dina Samson is the engine behind the couple’s broader vision for social impact. In addition to co-owning their restaurants, she has co-founded organizations such as Independent Hospitality Coalition, Regarding Her Food, and FeedLoveLA—initiatives dedicated to supporting Los Angeles’ hospitality industry, especially women and underrepresented groups. Her leadership has earned her a spot on The Observer Dining and Nightlife Power List for Social Impact and the James Beard Leadership and Resilience Award.
Dina is a James Beard Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Fellow, a C200 Champion WinLab fellow, and serves on several advisory committees including LA Tourism and Dine LA. She also spearheaded the City Market South Business Alliance, a coalition focused on revitalizing the historic district where their restaurants are located.
Beyond the kitchen and community, Steve and Dina Samson are the proud parents to twins, Gaia and Luca. Whether traveling, cooking, or jamming out with their kids’ rock band, Silverfish, the Samsons are grounded by family and fueled by a shared love for food, culture, and connection.
