Meet Michael Vessicchio | Restaurant Owner, Pharmacist, Professor, & Medical Writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Vessicchio and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work-life balance has definitely evolved as my career has grown and shifted. In the beginning, as a pharmacist, the demands were intense — long shifts, fast-paced decisions, and little flexibility. It taught me discipline, but it also pushed me to recognize the early signs of burnout.

Later, when I began teaching as a professor, the rhythm changed. I had more structure, but the work didn’t necessarily slow down — it just followed me home in the form of grading, mentoring, and preparation.

Owning a restaurant brought an entirely different kind of challenge. It’s incredibly rewarding, but it’s also non-stop — you’re responsible for everything, all the time. That experience forced me to get serious about boundaries, delegation, and trusting the people around me.

Now, as a medical writer, I’ve found the healthiest balance so far. The work is meaningful and mentally engaging, but I also have more autonomy over my time. That’s allowed me to be more present in both my professional and personal life.

For me, balance isn’t about perfectly splitting time between work and life — it’s about sustainability. It’s about being able to give your best without losing yourself in the process

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What makes my journey unique is the range of fields I’ve had the privilege to work in — and how each one has shaped the way I think, lead, and create. Pharmacy gave me precision, discipline, and clinical depth. Academia taught me how to communicate complex ideas and invest in others’ growth. Running a restaurant challenged me to build something from the ground up — to lead with heart, manage chaos, and serve a community. And now, as a medical writer, I get to bring all those perspectives together: the science, the storytelling, the service mindset. Most people specialize in one lane — I’ve had the chance to live in several, and it’s made me more adaptable, more empathetic, and more creative

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Start with coffee and a breakfast sandwich at Willoughby’s — local, strong, and never a miss. From there, take a walk through the Yale campus — the architecture alone is worth the time, and the museums like the Yale Art Gallery are free and underrated.

For lunch, you’ve got to go classic New Haven style — either hit up Louis’ Lunch for a historic burger or grab a meatball parm at Nicky’s Place Bar & Pizza (yes, I’m biased — I co-own it with my brother Anthony, but it really is one of the best spots in town).

In the afternoon, wander down to Wooster Square, especially during the spring when the cherry blossoms pop. If you’re into bookstores or record shops, Elm Street has a few great hidden gems. Then hit East Rock Park for a quick hike and an unbeatable view of the city.

Wrap the day with dinner at Shell & Bones or Cast Iron. But honestly, if you end up back at Nicky’s late night for a drink, I wouldn’t blame you — it’s that kind of place.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
None of this journey has been mine alone. I want to give a huge shoutout to my brother Anthony — not only my business partner and co-owner, but my day-one, the person who’s helped build this vision from the ground up. Our go-to server Ashley deserves just as much love — she’s the heartbeat of our front of house and someone we count on every single day.

To my professors across college — thank you for challenging and inspiring me. To my parents, thank you for your sacrifices, your belief in me, and your constant support. To my younger brother Nick — who is both Anthony’s and my inspiration, and the namesake of our restaurant — you keep us grounded and motivated in everything we do.

And of course, to my wife Cheyenne — your patience, strength, and support mean everything to me. You keep me focused, humble, and driven. Lastly, none of this would be possible without God. Through every pivot and every late night, faith has carried me forward.

Website: https://Nickysplacect.com

Instagram: @nickysplacect

Image Credits
Ashley Giglietti