By Kate Bartlett
Trattoria Partenope, partnering with Iuculano Development, will bring authentic Italian to the village of Ellicottville at 14 Washington Street. With an anticipated opening of mid-November, the restaurant located will offer homemade pasta, sauce, and other authentic Italian dishes all made in house, from scratch.
Business partners Giovanni Sismondi and Andrea Lucignano both have an extensive culinary background and have worked together for many years. Both originally from Italy, they specialize in authentic Italian food and hospitality. Giovanni and Andrea grew up in Napoli until they moved to London at 18 years old.
Giovanni studied culinary arts, specializing in ‘front of the house’ operations, focusing on hospitality and guest experience. Andrea studied ‘back of the house’ culinary, and specializes in cooking and creating incredible Italian cuisine. Giovanni’s partner also has extensive experience in the restaurant industry, as he owns two restaurants in Miami, Florida. One specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, and the other, Italian. “It’s been an honor working with him in Miami, and we’re excited to bring our experience to open our own restaurant.”
Giovanni visited Ellicottville on vacation, and saw the opportunity to bring authentic Italian food to the area. “We fell in love with the village of Ellicottville,” explains Giovanni. “Coming from a big city, we loved the peace and quiet of the area. The people were so friendly and welcoming, we decided this was the place we wanted to open our first restaurant together.”
Trattoria Partenope will feature authentic Italian cuisine, including handmade pasta and sauce with fresh ingredients, all made in house, from scratch. They will offer a steak dish and a fish entrée, which will vary based on the season/market. The dessert menu will feature a tableside tiramisu, with a full bar including wine, beer, mixed drinks and cocktails.
Giovanni describes the atmosphere as a mix between Tuscany and Mediterranean, with light colors and wood accents. “The vibe is fresh and modern, but with a personal touch. We plan to feature photographs of our hometown of Napoli, after which the restaurant is named. Partenope is the original name of Napoli, Italy.”
Trattoria Partenope will be a unique dining experience, as guests will be able to watch pasta being made, and many dishes being prepared tableside. “We want our guests to see the food being prepared, and feel a part of the experience. It’s part of the authentic Italian experience.”
According to Giovanni, authentic Italian pays homage to how traditional Italian meals are prepared. “It means keeping it the way it’s meant to be. We keep the tradition of the Italian dishes alive with high standards and fresh ingredients. Our pasta is made from simple, fresh ingredients, only eggs, flour and salt; we invite you to taste and experience our authentic Italian.”
Giovanni and Andrea and excited to be a part of the Ellicottville community. “We have felt at home here since day one,” says Giovanni. “We hope that people love our restaurant and return again and again.”
For more information, visit trattoriapartenope.com, follow Trattoria Partenope on Facebook, Trattoria.partenope on Instagram, email Trattoriapartenope1926@gmail.com , call (716)699-1000
and keep reading in The Villager for updates about opening. The owners hope to open as soon as possible, and are planning for mid-November.