Though Osteria Padre Pio opened two years ago in Mamaroneck, we only learned about it recently and were so pleased when we were able to secure a table just before Christmas. The unassuming façade could have been taken for a neighborhood bar, but we soon learned that looks can be deceiving.

Our timing was excellent: not only were the restaurant and bar decked out for the holidays with lights, pine boughs and decorations – but they had just learned that they were included in the 2023 Via Michelin, a route planning guide to recommended restaruants. The chef and staff were proud and excited that their fresh and hearty interpretations of southern Italian fare had been recognized halfway across the globe.