Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Fundora.
Hi Maria, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I immigrated to the United States from Cuba in the 1960s with big dreams and a deep belief in hard work, faith, and family. Before opening my current restaurant, my late husband Antonio — a master chef — and I owned and operated several restaurants in Atlanta, including Alfredo’s, three Avanti’s locations, Avanti’s Pescivino (which introduced one of the first open-kitchen concepts in the city), Antonio’s Bakery in 1980, and Tony’s Farmer’s Market in 1993, one of the first ethnic open markets in Atlanta. In 1998, we opened Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant in Alpharetta, and today, nearly three decades later, it continues to be a place where food, family, and community come together.
In 2009, after losing my mother to pancreatic cancer, I founded Purple Pansies. My mother taught me that whatever we have, we share — whether it’s food, clothing, time, or compassion. After walking through the pain of losing her, I felt called to fight this devastating disease and to support families who were suffering as we had. To date, Purple Pansies has raised more than $7 million to provide emergency financial aid to patients, scholarships to children affected by pancreatic cancer, and funding for groundbreaking research and clinical trials through the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), part of City of Hope. I am incredibly proud that our funding has helped support three of the four key regimens used to treat pancreatic cancer today.
Today, through Casa Nuova, I host monthly fundraisers for local schools and charities because giving back is not something I do — it’s who I am. I’ve been blessed to receive honors such as the Greater North Fulton Chamber Small Business of the Year in 2023, the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Leaders in Corporate Citizenship award, recognition among the Georgia Hispanic Chamber’s 50 Most Influential Latinos (and induction into its Hall of Fame), appointment to the National Pancreatic Cancer Council, and other community awards. But the greatest reward is knowing that through hospitality, faith, and service, I’ve been able to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The most challenging obstacle for Casa Nuova has been navigating the immense personal and business loss of my husband. Losing Tony, my partner in life and business, was heartbreaking. Together, we built this restaurant with love, and after he passed, I had to figure out how to carry on without him while honoring his legacy. All while navigating the pandemic, which presented a completely different set of challenges. We had to quickly adapt by shifting to takeout, creating family meals, and even hosting virtual wine dinners—all while worrying about the health and safety of our staff and guests.
As a nonprofit founder, I faced the ongoing challenge of fundraising and raising awareness for pancreatic cancer research and patient support. Pancreatic cancer is a particularly devastating disease, and my connection to it through the loss of my mother fueled my determination to make a difference. However, raising funds for medical research and supporting affected families requires continuous effort and dedication.
Despite these struggles, my unwavering optimism, dedication, and sense of purpose have guided me through the toughest times. My commitment to serving others, both through the restaurant and nonprofit, has helped me overcome obstacles and make a positive impact in the community. Through resilience and perseverance, I have turned challenges into opportunities for growth and I hope to inspire those around me with my passion.
Casa Nuova continues today, honoring Chef Antonio’s legacy, led by me and our children, Jose “Pepe,” Cari, and Alex. Ultimately, we want readers to know that we’re more than just a restaurant – we’re a place where good food, company, and causes come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a memorable dining experience or a way to give back to the community, Casa Nuova is the place to be.
As you know, we’re big fans of Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant & Purple Pansies. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At the heart of everything I do is hospitality with purpose. I am the owner and general manager of Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant in Alpharetta, and the founder of Purple Pansies, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting pancreatic cancer and supporting families in need.
At Casa Nuova, we specialize in authentic Italian cuisine rooted in family tradition. For nearly three decades, our restaurant has been more than just a place to dine — it’s a gathering place where guests are treated like family. We are known for our warm, welcoming atmosphere, personal relationships with our patrons, and a level of hospitality that makes people feel at home the moment they walk through the door. What truly sets us apart is that we don’t just serve food — we serve community. I am present in the restaurant, greeting guests, hosting events, and building connections. That personal touch has become part of our brand.
I am especially proud that Casa Nuova has become a hub for giving back. We host monthly fundraisers supporting local schools, charities, and families in need because I believe a successful business should uplift the community around it. Being recognized as Small Business of the Year by the Greater North Fulton Chamber was an incredible honor, but what means the most to me is the loyalty of our guests and the impact we’ve been able to make together.
Through Purple Pansies, my mission expands beyond the restaurant. What began as a tribute to my mother has grown into an organization that has raised millions of dollars for pancreatic cancer research, patient financial assistance, and scholarships for children who have lost a parent to the disease. I am proud that our funding has helped advance life-saving treatment options while also providing immediate help to families walking through unimaginable hardship.
What I want readers to know is this: my brand — whether through Casa Nuova or Purple Pansies — is built on faith, resilience, generosity, and genuine human connection. We specialize in creating experiences that nourish both body and soul. Every plate served and every dollar raised is rooted in love for family, gratitude for community, and a deep commitment to making a meaningful difference.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The quality that I believe is most important to my success is generosity of heart — a genuine commitment to serving others.
Giving back isn’t something I do as an afterthought; it’s at the core of who I am and how I run Casa Nuova. Philanthropy has always been central to our mission. Founding Purple Pansies to fight pancreatic cancer and support patients and their families is one of the most meaningful parts of my life’s work. This cause is deeply personal to me, and over the years we have raised millions of dollars to fund groundbreaking research and provide financial assistance to families facing this devastating disease.
Beyond Purple Pansies, I make it a priority for Casa Nuova to consistently support our local community. We host fundraisers and events throughout the year for organizations such as the YMCA, King’s Ridge Christian School, the Lions Club, North Fulton Community Charities, Cambridge Lacrosse, The Drake House, the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Milton Chorale, Meals By Grace, United Way, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, among many others. Our annual Community Block Party is one of my favorite traditions — it brings neighbors together to celebrate while raising funds for a local nonprofit.
I truly believe that when you lead with generosity and compassion, success follows in ways that go far beyond business. For me, success isn’t just measured in revenue — it’s measured in lives touched, families supported, and the positive impact we can make together as a community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://casanuovarestaurant.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CasaNuovaAlpharetta
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-fundora/
- Other: https://purplepansies.org/
