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Buon Appetito: Hosting Unforgettable Italian Food Holiday Parties at the Best Restaurants in RI

by guest July 18, 2024

written by guest

Indulge in the warmth and richness of Italian culinary tradition this holiday season as we embark on a journey through the tantalizing world of Italian food holiday parties. From savory pasta dishes to decadent desserts, Italian cuisine offers a symphony of flavors that is perfect for celebrating with loved ones. In this guide, we’ll explore the charm and elegance of hosting your holiday festivities at some of the finest Italian restaurants in Rhode Island, where impeccable service and exquisite menus set the stage for unforgettable gatherings.

Cassarino’s Restaurant

📍177 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI 02903

View of Cassarino’s restaurant

Sausage, peppers, & broccoli rabe

Indulge in the epitome of Italian culinary excellence at Cassarino’s Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island. As a premier destination for private events, Cassarino’s blends decades of expertise with a passion for crafting unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re celebrating a corporate milestone or exchanging vows, their dedicated team ensures every detail is impeccably executed. Ascend to the second or third floor, where private spaces await, offering intimate settings for gatherings of up to 60 and 45 guests respectively. Delight in a symphony of flavors with their meticulously curated menu, boasting a fusion of beloved traditional dishes and innovative vegan creations. At Cassarino’s, every event is a celebration of Italy’s rich culinary heritage, promising an evening of indulgence and refinement that transcends mere dining.

Trattoria Appia

📍245 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI 02903

Dining room with a large window view of the Federal Hill area

Brick oven pizza

Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of southern Italy at Trattoria Appia, formerly known as Trattoria Zooma. With a renewed focus on authenticity and quality, our upscale Southern Italian kitchen invites you to indulge in handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and a curated selection of old-country wines. Beyond exceptional dining, our space transforms into the perfect venue for your next private event, whether it’s a birthday celebration, graduation, anniversary, or corporate gathering. Let our experienced events team craft an unforgettable experience for you and your guests, leaving them wowed by the flavors and warmth of Italy. Explore our private events menu and catering options to elevate your occasion with the genuine charm of Trattoria Appia.

Massimo Ristorante

📍134 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI 02903

Ample seating for guests to dine at Massimo Ristorante

A full spread of italian dishes and wine at Massimo Ristorante

Experience the essence of Italian hospitality at Il Massimo Providence, where our private function rooms offer the perfect setting for events of all sizes. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, our versatile spaces accommodate up to 116 guests in Providence and 36 guests in Dedham. With full audio/visual capabilities and WiFi, our locations are ideal for business meetings, presentations, and private dining experiences. Elevate your event with our curated party menus or indulge in our catering services, bringing the taste of Il Massimo to you. Discover the art of Italian dining at Il Massimo Providence, where every occasion is infused with flavor and elegance.

Basta Italian Restaurant

📍2195 Broad St, Cranston, RI 02905

The dining room at Basta Italian Restaurant

A holiday toast at Basta Italian Restaurant

Elevate your next event with the irresistible charm and flavors of Italy at Basta Italian Restaurant. Our versatile event spaces are designed to accommodate any occasion, whether it’s a corporate luncheon or a celebratory dinner. From the modern-rustic ambiance of our Main Dining Room, seating up to 85 guests for daytime events and up to 100 for evening affairs, to the intimate elegance of Sala Privata, perfect for gatherings of up to 20 guests, and the enchanting Garden-Like Patio, evoking the spirit of Tuscany and hosting up to 50 guests in any weather, our spaces offer the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments. Equipped with full audiovisual capabilities, including projectors and screens, our venues seamlessly blend functionality with charm, ensuring your event is a resounding success. Experience the magic of Basta Italian Restaurant, where every occasion is infused with warmth, flavor, and sophistication.

Rosalina

📍50 Aborn St, Providence, RI 02903

Rosalina dining room

Prosciutto platter

Experience the enchantment of Italian hospitality at Rosalina, your premier venue in Providence, Rhode Island, for private events. From corporate luncheons to birthday soirées and wedding receptions, Rosalina offers a warm and inviting ambiance paired with a menu brimming with both traditional classics and contemporary delights from Italy. Let our attentive staff ensure every detail is meticulously handled, allowing you to relax and savor the moment as your event becomes an unforgettable celebration of Italian cuisine and charm.

Scotti’s Salumeria

📍4654 Post Rd, East Greenwich, RI 02818

Inside Scottis Salumeria

Burrata

Elevate your event to an unforgettable celebration of Italian cuisine and hospitality at Scotti’s, where every gathering is infused with the taste and feeling of Italy. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate soirée on our charming patio or a grand affair in our elegant dining room, we have the perfect space to suit your needs. Delight in classic Italian dishes and authentic family flavors, expertly crafted to elevate every moment of your event. With hassle-free parking options and a range of catering choices available, planning your most memorable occasion has never been easier. Contact us now to kickstart the process and discover the possibilities for your next unforgettable event at Scotti’s.

Maria’s Cucina

📍477 Broadway, Providence, RI 02909

Tables set for dinner at Maria’s Cucina

Calamari Fritti

Experience the charm and flavors of Italy at Maria’s Cucina, the perfect venue for your next event near Federal Hill in Providence, RI. Conveniently located with ample off-street parking, our historic mansion setting sets the stage for unforgettable gatherings, from political fundraisers to bridal showers and corporate events. With seating for up to 70 guests on the second level and customizable arrangements for up to 125 guests on the first floor, Maria’s Cucina offers versatile spaces tailored to your needs. Let us turn your occasion into a culinary journey filled with authentic Italian cuisine and warm hospitality.

Tavolo Wine Bar & Tuscan Grille

📍970 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917

Wine on the table at Tavolo Wine Bar and Tuscan Grille

Shrimp Scampi Fra Diavolo

Welcome to Tavolo, the premier Italian event space in the heart of Smithfield, Rhode Island, where warm ambiance and exquisite cuisine await. Celebrate weddings, birthdays, or corporate gatherings in our stylish venue, adorned with warm lighting and inviting decor that captures the essence of Italy. Indulge in a culinary journey with our diverse menu of authentic Italian dishes, crafted by talented chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a lively celebration, our versatile event spaces can be tailored to your needs, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience. Contact Tavolo today to start planning an unforgettable celebration that perfectly blends elegance and exceptional cuisine.

Sarto

📍86 Dorrance St, Providence, RI 02903

Mezzanine view of the bar in Sarto

Pesto pasta

At Sarto, we believe in the magic of details and the joy of a meal that extends beyond the food itself. Our event space, inspired by Italy’s authentic, old-world traditions, offers the perfect setting for your next celebration. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or a grand event, Sarto’s menu features dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, blending traditional Italian flavors with modern flair. Immerse your guests in a culinary experience that honors our region while capturing the essence of Italian dining. Let us make your event unforgettable with the perfect combination of ambiance, service, and exquisite cuisine.

In conclusion, celebrating your holiday gatherings at one of Rhode Island’s finest Italian restaurants promises an experience rich in flavor, ambiance, and heartfelt hospitality. From intimate family dinners to grand corporate events, these venues offer the perfect blend of traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine, set in atmospheres that evoke the warmth and charm of Italy. Whether you’re seeking the rustic elegance of a Tuscan-inspired patio or the sophisticated vibe of a modern dining room, there’s an ideal spot for every occasion. Let the dedicated events teams at these restaurants craft a memorable experience, ensuring your holiday party is nothing short of spectacular. Buon appetito, and may your celebrations be filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable Italian fare!

See More Rhode Island Restaurants

July 18, 2024 0 comments

chefs & restaurants farms news

News Bites: Tavolo Opens on Federal Hill / RI DEM Farmland Access Workshop / Sardella’s Family Recipe

by David Dadekian November 30, 2016

written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.

Tavolo Sets the Table on Federal Hill

Sherri and Leonard Mello will open elegant yet energetic new restaurant
Executive Chef Paul Shire to create contemporary Italian cuisine

Tavolo means “table.” The owners of the successful Tavolo Wine Bar & Restaurant in Smithfield will open a new restaurant on Federal Hill on December 8, 2016 with a grand opening celebration in the heart of Providence’s premier dining destination.

Sherri and Leonard Mello are bringing an elegant yet energetic atmosphere to Tavolo Wine Bar and Tuscan Grille at 289 Atwells Avenue.

The Location & The Ambiance
The Tavolo experience starts with a totally renovated look and ambience that captures both the tradition of “The Hill” and new accents. Bronze box lighting with dark wood notes and inviting banquettes adjoin a spacious bar that speaks of good times. It is destined to be one of Federal Hill’s landmarks with its exclusive three-season outdoor piazza.

“Tavolo in Smithfield has been great for our innovative cuisine and wine program. We love our regulars and all our loyal guests,” said Sherri Mello. “We wanted to create an elegant and contemporary dining experience, where people can enjoy soft live piano music and entertainment while they dine, that invokes the feelings of Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Dean Martin.”

The Wine Collection
Before one reaches Tavolo Wine Bar and Tuscan Grille’s piazza, there is a second bar facing Tavolo’s wine collection which sommelier Leonard proudly displays. “We will have over five hundred wines on our list with over 40 by-the-glass selections. Our guests can spend from $20 to $2000 per bottle but we will always have over 75 wines at under $40 per bottle,” he says.

“We were avid wine enthusiasts before we opened our first restaurant,” Leonard continued. “We owned a couple of wine and gourmet food shops as well. At Tavolo Providence, our goal is to continue building on a Wine Spectator Award-winning wine list both comprehensive and approachable. With our extensive by-the-glass program we will be one of the only true wine bars in the city.”

“In Smithfield we established Tavolo Wine Bar as a ‘go-to’ destination. Our food philosophy cues our cocktail menu – innovative but with a classic feel. In Providence that will include hard-to-find bourbons and Scotches in addition to the usual cocktails.”

Sherri on Federal Hill: “We chose The Hill to be part of the continued movement to reestablish Federal Hill as a restaurant-first destination. With our Tuscan-inspired cuisine and wines, our warm and polished surroundings, and the added element of live piano music on a regular basis, we have much to offer and welcome many more guests old and new to Tavolo Providence.”

Tavolo’s Signature Dishes
Tavolo’s menu will bring to Federal Hill traditional Italian cuisine with contemporary ideas and trends created by Executive Chef Paul Shire. The chef has been on the leading edge for most of his career, opening the groundbreaking DownCity Food + Cocktails and the popular Oak. Chef Shire’s creativity is all in the family. His aunt is none other than Lydia Shire, the James Beard Award winning chef from Boston.

Signature dishes at Tavolo Wine Bar and Tuscan Grille include:

Sauteed Shrimp Pancetta with broccolini, cherry tomato and herb beurre blanc over fresh made spaghetti;
Braised Pulled Beef Shank, asparagus tips, cippolini onions, peas, mushrooms and truffle butter over fresh gnocchi;
16oz Grilled Ribeye, Kona Coffee Rub, Purple Fingerling Potato, Brussels Sprouts with demiglace.

The Tavolo menu was designed and created entirely from scratch in house.

Sherri and Leonard invite you to the table at Tavolo Wine Bar and Tuscan Grille, 289 Atwells Avenue on Providence’s Federal Hill, opening this December.

DEM Seeks Early Input on New Farmland Access Program

Third Public Workshop to be Held Next Month

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) will hold a third public workshop on the State’s new Farmland Access Program next month. The voluntary, pilot program – approved by voters as part of a 2014 environmental bond measure – helps ensure Rhode Island’s farmlands remain in farming. During the workshop, DEM will highlight and gather input on a revised, preliminary outline of the program.

WHAT: Review and Comment on Updated Draft Rules & Regulations for the Rhode Island Farmland Access Program

WHEN: Wednesday, December 14, 2016 – 5:30 p.m.

WHERE: DEM Headquarters, 235 Promenade Street, Providence // Room 300

DEM continues to work across many fronts to strengthen Rhode Island’s green economy and to promote the viability of local agriculture. The state’s green industries account for more than 15,000 jobs and contribute $2.5 billion to the economy each year. And local agriculture continues to be an area ripe for growth – with the number of farms in Rhode Island on the rise and a growing young farmer network. Access to land, however, continues to be a challenge for many farmers.

The Farmland Access Program is one way DEM is addressing this challenge. It allows the Department to partner with the State’s Agricultural Land Preservation Commission and willing sellers to purchase farmland, protect it, and affordably sell it to farmers looking for land. The voluntary program supports farmers by giving landowners an option that will keep historic farmlands available for farming. As part of the 2014 Clean Water, Open Space and Healthy Communities bond measure, $3 million is available for farmland preservation under this program. The program’s formal rulemaking process, which will involve a public comment period, has not yet begun. The public workshops held to date are designed to gather early feedback on the program’s draft regulations. The latest version of the Draft Rules & Regulations is available online and will continue to be updated based on public input.

For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.

Sardella’s Family Kitchen Recipe of the Month

Sardella’s Italian Restaurant in Newport, believes recipes were meant to be shared with the world. The Sardella Family has created The Family Kitchen Recipe of the Month, a series of authentic Italian recipes from kitchens of Italian families, or as known in Italian, Ricette Della Cucina de Famiglia.

Each month, a family recipe will be featured as a special for the month at Sardella’s. 10% of the proceeds will go to the King Center of Newport. The recipe with its family history will also be featured in the Sardella’s menu for an entire month, on Facebook and at sardellas.com.

Recipes are being accepted from customers, guests and friends of Sardella’s.
A $100 gift card will be awarded each month for the winning recipe of the month.
Recipes and history may be emailed to patrick@sardellas.com or mailed to Patrick Fitzgerald, Sardella’s Italian Restaurant, 30 Memorial Blvd West, Newport RI 02840.

The Family Kitchen Recipe of the Month will kick off on January 1, 2017.

Deadline for recipes is December 15, 2016.
To submit a recipe email patrick@sardellas.com or mail to Sardellas at 30 Memorial Blvd. West, Newport RI, 02840
For more information, email or call 401-849-6312.

November 30, 2016 0 comments

chefs & restaurants news wine & drinks

News Bites: Pane e Vino Owners to Open Massimo / Social Enterprise Greenhouse Food Accelerator / “Savoring Italy” Tour

by David Dadekian February 2, 2016

written by David Dadekian

Current news releases—Eat Drink RI is not the source for these items—please follow any links for more information.

Joe & Esther Dequattro, Owners Of Pane E Vino On Federal Hill, Set To Open New Restaurant Massimo In Former Mediterraneo Space

Joseph and Esther Dequattro, owners of Pane e Vino Ristorante & Enoteca, are pleased to introduce their new restaurant, Massimo, set to open in spring 2016 in the space formerly known as Mediterraneo.

“Pane e Vino offers very traditional, authentic Southern Italian cuisine, founded on my family recipes,” said Joseph DeQuattro, “Creating this new menu has given me the opportunity to experiment with some contemporary and innovative concepts, with influences from all over Italy.”

“Joe and I created Massimo with the goal of providing our guests with a unique dining experience, where great food and attentive service are fun and accessible,” said Esther DeQuattro.

Joe and Esther have engaged acclaimed restaurant designer, Kyla Coburn, to execute their vision for the space. The 200-seat restaurant is being completely renovated, and will offer an extraordinary space for private events. Massimo will feature inspired and locally sourced small plates and entrees, a seasonally curated cocktail menu, and an international wine list. Many of the wines will be sourced directly from small boutique winemakers across Italy.

Massimo will be open for lunch and dinner daily, as well as Sunday Brunch. Pane e Vino will remain open as the beloved classic Italian restaurant, anchoring the western end of Atwells Avenue. For updates and more information about Massimo’s opening date, please visit www.facebook.com/MassimoProvidence.

Social Enterprise Greenhouse Drives Innovation in Food Cluster with Launch of First Food Accelerator on February 9th

Twelve high-impact New England-based do well, do good food entrepreneurs selected from a pool of 28 applicants will embark on a 3-month business development journey to bring their ventures to the next level.

The Social Enterprise Greenhouse (SEG) will launch its first Food Accelerator cohort with a celebration on February 9, 2016 at the SEG Hub (10 Davol Square, Suite 100, Providence) from 6:00pm-8:00pm. The 12 New England-based food businesses selected for the program will introduce their ventures and goals, as well as provide tastings of their products. This event is an opportunity to celebrate the commencement of the 12-week program with the SEG and local food communities. The Food Accelerator, delivered in partnership with Brown University and funded by the Henry P. Kendall Foundation, provides high potential entrepreneurs with the knowledge, networks and resources they need to take their venture to the next level. This event is free and open to the public.

Although SEG continues to provide support and resources to social enterprises across industry, this new industry-specific cluster approach enables SEG and strategic partners to better provide resources and support to ventures that can respond to challenges in these specific sectors and ultimately help boost economic development in Rhode Island.

The Food Accelerator is SEG’s first industry-specific program, offering a 12-week blended learning model that provides high impact New England-based food entrepreneurs with the knowledge, networks, and resources they need to accelerate the growth of their enterprises. The program is made possible by a network of 200+ coaches and advisors, many of whom are among Rhode Island’s top business and food community leaders. Additional value is provided by 1-on-1 intensive coaching, a peer cohort model, and access to SEG’s recently opened coworking space at 10 Davol Square in Providence. Upon graduation, participants will receive priority access to the SEG loan fund that provides below market interest rate loans to high potential social enterprises.

The purpose of this new program is to stimulate innovation in Rhode Island’s burgeoning food sector and to help create more successful, sustainable do well, do good businesses in Rhode Island and the region, leading to a more extensive and healthy local and regional food system.

“Rhode Island’s food economy is strong and getting stronger,” said Congressman Jim Langevin. “Social Enterprise Greenhouse is doing phenomenal work supporting start-up businesses, including those in the food industry. This Food Accelerator will no doubt further grow our vibrant food economy, and I can’t wait to see what this class of participants achieves with the help of the hardworking team at SEG.”

“Our final 12 ventures are passionate, socially-driven, and dedicated to making an impact on RI’s food system. Thanks to the support from the Henry P. Kendall Foundation and our Food Advisory Council, we have formulated a program that will give these ventures the tools they need to thrive in RI and beyond,” Isabella Cassell, Director of Food Initiatives, SEG

This year’s Food Accelerator program will conclude with a graduation and final pitch event on May 10, 2016.

Learn more about the Impact Accelerator program at http://segreenhouse.org/blog/foodacceleratorlaunch

MEET THE INAUGURAL FOOD ACCELERATOR COHORT

Agraria Farm and Edibles is a Rehoboth-based farm that strives to contribute a new model of small scale agriculture that provides sustainable and systemic change.
Entrepreneur: Barbara Link

Bellicchi’s Best Biscotti now offers three delicious flavors. This RI-based company was born out of adversity and donates 5% of profits to the Alzheimer’s Association and also plans to help others start successful home businesses.
Entrepreneur: Kathleen Bellicchi

Fox Point Pickling Company is on a mission to provide the Ocean State with a delicious, locally sourced sugar free, additive free, naturally gluten-free and non-GMO small-batch pickle.
Entrepreneur: Ziggy Goldfarb

Glenwood Garden is an e-market for sustainably made food while helping nonprofits gain a recurring source of revenue.
Entrepreneur: Jonah Shapiro

The Humble Pie Company provides its customers with freshly baked, honest pies made with wholesome ingredients sourced from local farms.
Entrepreneur: Daniel Sheehan

Laughing Gull Chocolates uses all direct trade, premium local ingredients to allow consumers to get closer to their food source, and learn the intriguing, magical story of chocolate.
Entrepreneur: Lindsay Tarnoff

Leah’s Recipe is a snack line of evolved, plant-based, whole-food snacks that integrate into a health and wellness-based lifestyle.
Entrepreneur: Leah Rosin-Pritchard

Mesa Fresca offers an authentic chimichurri sauce and hopes to address the gap in the marketplace for authentic, fresh packaged Hispanic food.
Entrepreneurs: Nathalie and Alan Alberto

Newport Cooks partners with local chefs to offer affordable cooking classes to the community. They teach adults and children to cook for fun, creative inspiration and to promote healthier lifestyle choices.
Entrepreneur: Mary Weaver

Ocean State Smoked Fish Company offers locally sourced, uniquely smoked fish. They also set aside a portion of their profits for a culinary scholarship fund dedicated to Rhode Island fishing families.
Entrepreneur: Jeffrey Powell

Savory Fare is a meal delivery service for seniors, enabling them to stay healthy and remain in their own homes.
Entrepreneur: Mary Hughes

SecondsFirst is a food processing business that prepares, freezes, and packages imperfect vegetables from local farms and also processes under-appreciated RI fish into fish cakes for food insecure communities.
Entrepreneur: Erika Lamb

Local Business Women Combine Connections and Expertise to Offer Food & Wine Lovers an Exclusive, Behind-the-Scenes Tuscany Trip

Past “Savoring Italy” Tour, photos by David Dadekian

For the fourth consecutive year, Jessica Granatiero, proprietor of The Savory Grape and The Savory Affair, along with Chef Kaitlyn Roberts, founder & owner of Easy Entertaining Inc., have created a luxury Italian excursion that gives visitors a personalized food and wine tour of the beautiful region of Tuscany. This epicurean duo created the itinerary of the “Savoring Italy” tour by tapping into their extensive knowledge of the Italian food and wine culture, as well as their personal relationships with vintners and chefs in Tuscany to bring guests a tour unrivaled by other travel experts.

“Our experience is different. It’s a real glimpse into the Italian culture of food and wine. Savoring Italy is an emersion experience,” said Granatiero. “Our guests are welcomed by some of the best vineyards in Tuscany, while also learning authentic hands-on culinary techniques of Italian cooking.”

The Savoring Italy tour is scheduled for October 16th through October 22nd, 2016. Guests will stay at Villa Daniella Grossi, a restored 17th century luxury villa located in the hills of Lucca and learn about life of Italian wine and food by visiting four exclusive Tuscan vineyards guided by Granatiero. Chef Roberts teaches how to prepare authentic Italian cuisine with hands-on cooking classes featuring homemade pasta and pizza.

The sellout success of the past years’ Savoring Italy tours prompted Roberts and Granatiero to team up once again. “While Jessica and I do this for a living, it is hard to call this work,” said Roberts. “We have such an amazing time each year reconnecting with our Italian colleagues, experimenting with unique recipes, sipping new wine varietals, and exploring different areas of this extraordinary country!”

Roberts completed her culinary training in Tuscany, speaks fluent Italian and returns frequently to lead educated tours in hands-on, one-of-a-kind experiences. Granatiero has been recognized by the Wall Street Journal, Wine Spectator, Providence Business News and RI Monthly. She also leads the event-planning firm, The Savory Affair, specializing in wine-themed local, national and international travel.

A minimum of twelve guests are required by April 1st to confirm the trip. To reserve your spots please call Jessica Granatiero of The Savory Affair at 401-261-4966 or e-mail her at Jessica@thesavorygrape.com.

Click here to view Savoring Italy 2016 brochure. You can also learn more by visiting the Easy Entertaining’s website at EasyEntertainingRI.com or call Kaitlyn Roberts at (401) 437-6090. For more information on Villa Daniela Grossi please visit their website at www.VillaDanielaGrossi.it.

Disclosure: Pane e Vino/Massimo are clients of Eat Drink RI. The release and logo is identical to what was shared with other media.

February 2, 2016 0 comments