Founder of Blue Grotto Restaurant Vincenzo “Enzo” Tardio Dies at 78

Vincenzo “Enzo” Tardio, 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 25, 2026. He was the husband of the late Susan (Denellio) Tardio. Born in the Campania region of southern Italy, in a small town called Rutino, he was a son of the late Antonio and Clementina (Pecora) Tardio.

Enzo began his career in hospitality at the age of sixteen.  He worked in San Remo (Italy), London, and Bermuda, where he met his wife.  Following his marriage in 1974, he moved to Providence and began working as a waiter at Camille’s Restaurant.  It was in 1980 that he opened his own restaurant on Federal Hill, called Grotta Azzura (Blue Grotto), which operated for close to twenty years.  In the years that followed, he worked in several restaurants in Rhode Island as well as the Cove Restaurant in Fall River.  Most recently, Enzo was a Captain at Capriccio Restaurant in Providence, where he was famous for his table-side flambés. 

He was most happy when he was cooking for and serving people.  His customers were always greeted with a warm and genuine smile.  Enzo truly believed it was better to give than to receive, and his generosity knew no bounds.  He especially enjoyed having a meal with family and friends, golfing, playing the piano, and watching old TV sitcoms.

Enzo is survived by his loving children; daughter Maria E. Davenport and husband Jeffrey, and daughter Christina M. Romano and husband Leonardo.  He was the proud grandfather of John Davenport, Gabriel Romano, Joseph Davenport and Ella Romano.  He was the last surviving child of 10. His late siblings were Angelo, Francesco, Giuseppe, Carmine, Arturo, Ezio, Mario, Maria and Bruno Tardio.  He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends.

Enzo will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.  Although we are sad, his legacy will live on forever in our hearts.  

His funeral will be held Monday, June 1st, at 8:45 a.m. from “WOODLAWN” Funeral Home, 600 Pontiac Avenue, Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Mark Church, Garden Court, Cranston. Burial will follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. CALLING HOURS will be held Sunday, 4-8 p.m. at “WOODLAWN” Funeral Home.