What do a rock 'n' roll drummer, a novelty salesman and a restaurateur have in common? They're all one in the same--Barry Podwell.
The 59-year-old small businessman got his start in New York City, where he was born and launched his first career as a musician, along the way playing with the Manhattan Transfer and in a Broadway theater orchestra in a production of "Grease." Today, he owns Firenze Trattoria, an Italian restaurant in Encinitas.
The cozy 12-year-old neighborhood eatery has just undergone a major renovation, resulting in nearly 50 percent more space. The 5,500-square-foot restaurant space now features a new cocktail lounge and private dining area, and an ...