It’s “Tomaso Month” at The Italiano with a special menu

There’s no better way to honor one’s family than to recreate what they did best and enjoyed doing. In the case of Chef Joey Maggiore, it’s to dedicate a month long specially created menu at his newest restaurant, The Italiano, in honor of his father, chef & restaurateur Tomaso Maggiore who passed away four years ago this month.

Through the end of January guests can dine on a four-course menu of Tomaso’s signature dishes made with handmade pastas and slow-cooked sauces. The “Tomaso Month” menu is as follows……

First Course: (For the table)

  • Antipasto – Eggplant Napoletana, Mozzarella Caprese, Bruschetta with Auricchio Provolone, Roasted Peppers
  • Scungilli & Calamari – Roasted garlic, potatoes, and a spicy tomato wine broth

Second Course:

  • Sicilian Salad – Heirloom tomatoes, fennel, poached potatoes, red onion, puntarelle, and a citrus vinaigrette

Primi Piatti:

  • Mezza Rigatoni alla Norma – Heirloom tomato sauce, braised eggplant, and dried ricotta

Fourth Course: (Choose One)

  • Petra Sole Francese – Lightly egg-battered with lemon wine caper sauce
  • Stuffed Veal Cuscinetto – Mascarpone, prosciutto, wild mushroom ricotta, and a sherry wine demi
  • Divine Sausage & Peppers – House made, chargrilled with caramelized onions, peppers, and a San Marzano wine sauce

Dessert:

  • Angel KissesStrawberries stuffed with cannoli cream

For more information and to make your reservation visit the restaurant’s website.

Gabriella’s Contemporary American Cuisine coming to Scottsdale Ranch

E very restaurant owner had to make some of the hardest decisions of their life when Covid-19 hit in March. Anthony and Anna Barr had to make many of the same decisions but they took it to the next level in a short amount of time. The couple had owned and operated Fork & Spoon Productions and Above & Beyond Catering, both very successful hospitality businesses in the SF Bay area. In April after they assessed their situation and laid off 60 employees, a fresh start was needed and they re-located to Scottsdale to open their newest venture Gabriella’s Contemporary American Cuisine.  The family friendly restaurant will open later this month in The Mercado at Scottsdale Ranch at 10155 E. Via Linda.

“We are so excited to bring our upscale-yet-approachable cuisine to the diners of Scottsdale,” says co-founder Anna Barr. “We take much pride in every dish that comes out of our kitchen, and we’re dedicated to, and passionate about, creating memorable experiences through a welcoming atmosphere, spectacular service, and exceptional food.”

Gabriella’s Contemporary American Cuisine’s menu

Chefs Anthony’s cuisine will include American favorites and will also include vegan and vegetarian dishes. Stuffed Cheese & Bacon Tater Tots and Impossible Sloppy Joe Sliders will highlight the list of appetizers. Salads and a “Soup of the Day” will offer lighter dishes. Short Rib Grilled Cheese, a Dungeness Crab & Lobster Roll and Grilled NY Strip will be featured on the menu along with other salads, sandwiches and entrees. A children’s menu and dessert menu is available. A full bar will serve local beers, house wines and specialty craft cocktails that will round out the menu.

Gabriella’s Contemporary American Cuisine follows CDC guidelines so that customers and staff will be safe and healthy. The restaurant will seat 40 people indoors and the patio will seat 60 allowing for social distancing. The menu is available for dine-in or take-out.

Gabriella’s Contemporary American Cuisine will be open daily from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. for take-out and dine-in. For more information and to view their menu visit their website.