Sometimes you find old values, big aspirations, and a spirit of community in places that are contemporary, modest, and commercial. These are among the paradoxes that you encounter at our October 2022 Business of the Month, Gaia Italian Cafè at 226 East 3rd Street (Ave. B/C) along with a revolving selection of freshly-made, delicious Italian dishes at surprisingly low prices. The owner’s warm welcome comes free. You’d be hard pressed to find a better and more delectable deal in town. 

Gaia Bagnasacco grew up in Milano, assisting her grandmother in the kitchen and, along the way, developing a passion for food. Memorable trips to different regions in Italy and fondly-recalled meals around the fireplace of the family’s small, rustic mountain home additionally instilled in her a deep-seated affinity for the warm comforts of simple, fresh food eaten in good company.