For the past year, Sprezza Cucina has brought Italian food pop-ups to Richmond that have shared a more diverse take on that country's cuisine, gathering a cult following along the way. Now, fans and newcomers alike can rejoice, because Angela Petruzzelli—founder, owner and chef of Sprezza Cucina—is opening the first Sprezza brick-and-mortar this November.

One of the key strengths of Petruzzelli’s pop-ups has been their focus on a refreshing variety of dishes and ingredients found throughout Italy’s different regions. With much of Richmond’s current Italian offerings centered around Italian-American classics, Sprezza has leaned into Italy’s rich biodiversity, serving up pasta in crema di basilico, fennel and orange salad, and cacio e pepe, alongside dishes such as her family’s signature lasagne, a fan favorite.