Ornella Trattoria, Astoria,NYC

Disclaimer: I was invited as a guest to this establishment for a complimentary meal. All opinions expressed in this post are my own

Meet Giuseppe Viterale, restaurateur, food enthusiast and welcoming host at Ornella Trattoria Italiana in Astoria.

I was recently invited to a press event as Giuseppe’s guest and was treated to not just a wonderful array of flavors from his home-style Italian kitchen but the true warmth of his hospitality. I was surrounded by wonderful company sharing the table with the awesome Alysia Stern of 24/7 PR , Tia D. Rudd of Gluten-free Princess, Jean Lee and Jessica Flores of Domesticated Me.

Hailing from Salerno near the Amalfi Coast, Giuseppe was originally an architect who owned restaurants in the city for several years. In 2009, he decided to open Ornella Trattoria Italiana (named after his wife) to showcase the food and traditions that they grew up with in Italy.

The intention was to create a space where people feel like they are eating in the Viterale’s home using carefully preserved family recipes handed down from generations.

We began our feast with a very special signature “Spritzer” made by Giuseppe. A perfect beginning to our beautiful al fresco afternoon of gluttony.

Giuseppe brought out a tray of salumi, which included prosciutto, parma, soppressata, and nduja all made by him!

We were served several dishes from across the menu including brunch favorites like the “Pane Cotto” served on thick bread w/ sausage, broccoli rabe and sunny side up fried eggs.

I really enjoyed their rendition of the “Pasta di Castagna” a chestnut pasta served with a pistachio pesto cream sauce and truffle oil – a heavy dish but had some interesting flavors going on.

The Viterale’s have a good thing going at Ornella Trattoria – you should go and see for yourself and when you do – let them know that the Restaurant Fairy sent you!

Here is some of what we ate: