Spotlight on The Italiano: A New Culinary Gem at Mercado del Rancho

October 10, 2024

The Italiano restaurant in the vibrant Mercado del Rancho opened its doors on Friday, September 20, 2024, bringing a fresh and refined dining experience to the community. As a fine-dining Italian eatery, The Italiano is a new addition to Westwood’s diverse portfolio of tenants and promises to make a lasting impression.

A Taste of Italy with a Las Vegas Flair

Owned and founded by renowned Chef Joey Maggiore, The Italiano stands out with its upscale Las Vegas-inspired design and a menu that harks back to classic East Coast red sauce Italian restaurants. Chef Joey, who also curated the menu, ensures that guests can indulge in house-made pastas, premium steaks, and a variety of Italian favorites. A hallmark of the dining experience is the roaming antipasto cart, adding an interactive and authentic touch to each meal.

A New Chapter in the Journey of The Italiano

The opening of The Italiano is the culmination of a two-year remodeling and expansion project that has transformed the restaurant into a modern yet cozy venue, perfect for casual diners and those seeking a special night out. As part of Chef Joey’s culinary empire, the restaurant is a tribute to his father, Chef Tomaso Maggiore, and his Italian heritage.

Supporting Culinary Dreams and Giving Back

More than just a restaurant, The Italiano is deeply invested in the culinary community. Chef Joey created the Chef Tomaso Culinary Foundation to honor his late father, supporting young aspiring chefs with scholarships to further their culinary education. Additionally, his restaurants actively participate in educational programs such as C-CAP (Careers through Culinary Arts Program) and collaborate with Northern Arizona University’s HRM program. These efforts demonstrate Chef Joey’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary talent.

Exciting Plans on the Horizon

While The Italiano is Chef Joey’s newest venture, his vision for the future extends far beyond it. With plans to expand his other successful brands, Hash Kitchen and The Sicilian Butcher, on a national scale and launch Mexicano Chandler at the start of the new year, Chef Joey’s culinary influence continues to grow. He is also preparing to relaunch Mexicano Phoenix following a restaurant fire earlier this year.

A Legacy in the Making

Looking ahead, Chef Joey envisions The Italiano as a flagship brand that could expand to other locations, further establishing his legacy in the restaurant industry. Guests can also expect new and exciting features to be introduced at the Mercado del Rancho location, enhancing the already exceptional dining experience.

The Italiano Restaurant is not just a dining destination; it’s a culinary journey and a testament to Chef Joey Maggiore’s passion for food, community, and innovation. The Italiano is poised to become a beloved fixture at Mercado del Rancho with its unique offerings and strong ties to the local and culinary communities.