Geno Auriemma is one of the most revered names in college basketball—and he’s also known for his love of food. Here’s what the legendary coach does when he’s not on the court.
Auriemma is the winningest coach in NCAA women’s basketball history. He has led UConn to 12 national championship games, winning 11 of them. The only exception: a 2022 loss to South Carolina.
His entire career has revolved around basketball, but Auriemma also has interests beyond drawing up plays and chasing titles. He’s developed a passion—and some expertise—in a very different arena.
Does Auriemma Own a Restaurant?
Yes. Auriemma and his wife, Kathy, own a cozy Italian restaurant in Manchester, Connecticut. The restaurant, Café Aura, was formerly known as Cavey’s—a local favorite the Auriemmas had frequented for years. They took it over in 2019.
Café Aura features a lively bar atmosphere, private dining spaces, and an extensive bar stocked with world-class wines. The menu focuses on upscale Italian cuisine, including prime steaks and modern takes on classic dishes.
The restaurant was recognized as a top-three winner in the 2023 Best of Hartford Readers’ Poll in several categories, including Romantic Restaurant, Wine List, Special Occasion Restaurant, and Best Italian. It was also named Best New Restaurant in the 2020 Best of Hartford Magazine Readers’ Poll.
Auriemma once hosted more than 100 of his former players and their families at Café Aura to celebrate his historic milestone for career victories. He also hosted a party there when his beloved Philadelphia Eagles won the Super Bowl.
Geno Auriemma’s UConn Legacy
When Auriemma was hired in 1985, UConn had just one winning season in its history. Since then, he’s turned the Huskies into a dynasty, capturing 11 national championships along the way.
He’s an eight-time Naismith Coach of the Year and a seven-time WBCA National Coach of the Year.
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Under his leadership, UConn became the first program to win four consecutive national titles and tied the NCAA women’s basketball record with 69 straight home wins from 2000 to 2003.
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