Wichita Brothers and Chefs Dish on City’s Culinary Scene, Return to ICT

A pair of Wichita brothers is making their mark on the city’s culinary scene with their vibrant addition of FioRito Ristorante. It’s a contemporary Italian eatery celebrating Wichita, local ingredients, handmade bread and pasta, and hospitality.

“Our goal is to create a neighborhood environment,” explained co-owner and general manager Jason Rickard. “We want customers to feel like they are being welcomed into our home for a well-prepared meal that you smell as you enter the door.”

Jason, 35, and his younger brother Jordan, 34, opened the bread and pasta restaurant in May 2022, after living in various areas of the United States for more than a decade.

They left the ICT in 2006 and 2007 to pursue their college degrees. Jason moved to Chicago and attended Northwestern University while Jordan studied in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

The pair eventually found themselves in Colorado, working at some of the most prestigious restaurants in the state including Frasca Food and Wine, ChoLon, Guard & Grace, Safta and Beckon.

In 2019, they returned to their beloved home city and began working in Wichita’s robust culinary scene. After a few ups and downs, they decided to band together and become their own bosses.

“FioRito is truly a dream come true and while we have worked hard, we are very fortunate to be able to make our dreams a reality. It takes a village, and we owe a huge debt to our parents, teachers and community,” said Jason.

Jason said the genuine warmth of the Wichita community is what led him and his brother back to the city.

“People are nicer in Wichita,” Jason humorously noted.

The vast array of opportunities doesn’t hurt either.

“There is an entrepreneurial spirit and support of local businesses in Wichita. This place fosters opportunities. It is said a lot, but Wichita really is the biggest small town I have lived in,” he added.

Encouraging others to consider Wichita, Jason urges, “Do it! The cost of living is phenomenal. People are genuine and the weather is fine.”

However, he did provide a fair warning about experiencing all four seasons in one day – a testament to Wichita’s unpredictable weather.

“That could be a deal breaker, but not for us,” Jason laughed.

Rain or shine, Wichita is home to the Rickard brothers. It’s where they enjoy sharing their passion for food with residents and visitors alike.