The network of BiCE restaurants spanning the world today began in 1926 in Milan. Beatrice Ruggeri 'BiCE to her family and friends' was known for her extraordinary hospitality and personal warmth. For years she was encouraged to open her cucina to the public. In 1926 she agreed, albeit reluctantly, and a neighborhood trattoria:'loosely translated, a friendly gathering place' was opened. With Bice in the kitchen and her brothers and sisters serving in the dining room, Il Ristorante da Gino e Bice, or BiCE as it would later be known, had a family feeling. The first customers said it was like to being at the home of a friend, as BiCE hoped they would. Bice Ruggeri was now a recognized Milanese restaurateur, her sons, Remo and Roberto, have been taking the steps to extend her vision throughout the world.