The O-town Scene - Oneonta, NY
Issue link: https://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/17828
offered a slightly more upscale atmosphere and menu than Italian Kitchen. Boasting an extensive Old-world charm and yummy sandwiches From its Italian old- world charm to the delec- table house-made desserts, there are so many reasons to visit Stella Luna. Since I moved here, Stella Luna’s has been one of my favorite spots to enjoy a cocktail or inexpensive lunch in a sophisticated atmosphere. Located downtown in the old Market Street train station, which was built in 1892, the restaurant is a well-preserved piece of local history that is diffi- cult to miss. Vincenzo and Antonio Avanzato have been bring- ing Italian and Sicilian cuisine to Oneonta since opening Italian Kitchen in 1972 with their brother, Sal. Taking Oneonta’s culi- nary consciousness a step or two forward, Tony told me that they “were the first ones to bring Hawai- ian pizza to this area … the first chicken wings and calzones.” In June 2000, they broke ground again with Stella Luna’s Ristorante, which Joe Von Stengel wine list, eclectic beers on tap and in bottles, and fine single malt scotch selec- tions, it’s obvious these gentlemen appeal to those avoiding the bar crowd. The dinner menu offers dishes such as eggplant Parmigiana and New York strip topped with caramelized onions and mushrooms, as well as vegetarian, seafood, veal and chicken entrees. Their lunch menu has an array of $5.95 and $6.95 dishes, including the deli- cious open-faced prosciut- to and fresh mozzarella br- uschetta sandwich that my husband ordered. Since selling Italian Kitchen, something has clearly been missing, however: its signature pizza. Within the next few weeks, Stella Luna will be undergoing some radical changes, including bring- ing pizza into the Stella Luna dining room. While Stella Luna has been embraced by many out-of-towners, owners hope that extending the bar area, offering take- out and dine-in pizza, and separate casual and fine dining areas will bring in more local patrons. Hands-on and commu- nity oriented, Tony re- marked that he and Vinne have strived to make Stella Luna’s a “great family neighborhood restaurant.” Job well done, guys. _ Hope Von Stengel Oct. 14, 2010 O-Town Scene 11 Want to get published writing reveiws of concerts, bands, artists and events? E-mail Cassandra at editor@otownscene.com