Abbiocco Italian Cuisine in Chesterton rang in their two year anniversary with true Italian flair on September 23.
The night began with friends, family, and dear customers arriving for a welcoming reception prior to the event. Smiling faces filtered into the room as people prepared for the five-course dinner and wine tasting.
Abbiocco set the stage with Jim Bulanda, who performed his “Tribute to Sinatra” while guests dined on fine Italian cuisine. Meanwhile, Tony Gatti, Midwest/Great Lakes Regional Sales Manager at HALL Family Wines, guided attendees through wine pairings throughout the evening.
Traveling from Cincinnati to attend, Gatti was excited to partner with Augie Femminella, proprietor of Abbiocco Italian Cuisine and Luna Kitchen + Cocktails, to celebrate Abbiocco’s two year anniversary.
“It's so much fun to see what the chef is going to pair with these particular wines,” said Gatti.
Gatti remarked upon the variety of events he attends and Abbiocco’s expertise in hosting a fine dining experience.
“The space for events like these is always different. The dynamic and the vibe of the crowd is always a little different,” explained Gatti. “Tonight, in this particular instance, Jim Bulanda is going to be singing live throughout the night. That's the first time that I've had that happen, and so I'm excited about that. Abbiocco knows what they’re doing.”
Attendees were buzzing with excitement to get the five-course meal started. Many of those present are long-time and frequent customers who love to support the restaurant.
Janet McCord remembers celebrating the grand opening two years ago.
“I was at the soft opening,” said McCord. “I'm so happy that they have a second anniversary. I hope many come and eat good food and get good drinks. I like the martinis!”
McCord dined with her niece, Betsy Chinn. Both women are local and frequent Abbiocco.
“I have been here several times,” said Chinn. “I come for brunch with my girlfriends. I get the Bloody Mary’s. They put a pizza slice on it! It’s a great meal.”
McCord and Chinn comment on Abbiocco’s contribution to Chesterton’s community.
“Abbiocco has the two areas: your fine dining and the bar atmosphere upstairs with Luna,” explained McCord. “So no matter what you're in the mood for or however you're dressed, you can still be welcomed.”
“I think it's great,” said Chinn. “It's on the south end of Chesterton, so it's close to Valparaiso. It's also really wonderful that new people traveling the toll road and looking for someplace other than fast food to dine can come here.”
With such loyal customers ready to ring in another year of business, Femminella had a lot to celebrate. One of Femminella’s favorite part of managing Abbiocco and Luna is serving his customers.
“I love getting to meet the local community,” said Femminella. “Everyone has been so warm and welcoming.”
Not only have the clients made the past two years so memorable for the proprietor, but so has working with his staff.
“Getting to become more familiar with our great staff, we have become a family,” said Femminella. “I am very grateful to celebrate this year.”
The past two years have been a rollercoaster of highs and lows for any business owner, but opening a new restaurant amid a pandemic has been a challenge. Abbiocco has still come out strong against all challenges.
“We decided against having an event last year with the pandemic,” said Femminella. “So, we just want everyone to relax and enjoy themselves.”
And everyone did! The night was full of smiles, laughter, and lots of wine. Customers were excited to finally celebrate one of the best restaurants in Chesterton that offer a welcoming place to gather and have excellent food and drinks.
Going forward, the restaurant looks to continue being a pillar in the Region and keep customers interested with all Abbiocco Italian Cuisine and Luna Kitchen + Cocktails has to offer.
“We just want to keep evolving with our staff and menus,” said Femminella.
The restaurant often varies their weekly specials and boasts an amazing bar experience. Abbiocco and Luna also host many different events throughout the year.
“We want to hold more events,” said Femminella. “Cooking demos, themed dinners, whiskey tastings, pop-up bars, and more.”
Stay up to date on all the wonderful happenings at Abbiocco Italian Cuisine at https://abbioccoeats.com/.