Philadelphia, PA
- South Philly's own Pesto Ristorante took first prize on the 'Rachael Ray' "Little Italy Showdown" which aired on Monday, Oct 26. John Varallo and his daughter Maria took the top prize with their cavatelli topped with lobster, crab, and shrimp and served in a rose blush sauce dish.
In the heart of South Philadelphia, amidst a vibrant culinary scene renowned for its Italian-American fare, Ristorante Pesto stands out as a true gem. This exquisite establishment, owned and operated by the esteemed Varallo family, has been captivating diners with its authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality since its opening in 2003.
The Varallo family's deep-rooted connection to Italian cuisine shines through in every dish at Pesto. Their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and time-honored recipes ensures an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.
Pesto's culinary prowess was recently showcased on the national stage, as the father-daughter duo of Giovanni and Maria Varallo-Facenda triumphed in a prestigious culinary competition. Their winning dish, a testament to their expertise and passion, can now be savored at Pesto's main restaurant on South Broad Street. Priced at $26, this generously portioned masterpiece is sure to leave you satisfied and perhaps even with leftovers to enjoy later.
Pesto's extensive menu offers a culinary journey through Italy, featuring a diverse array of veal, pasta, and seafood dishes that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Italy. Indulge in their homemade gnocchi, a delicate potato dumpling bathed in a luscious cream pesto sauce. Savor the unique Portabella alla Parmigiana, a symphony of flavors featuring portabella mushrooms in a rich rose sauce, topped with Parmesan, mozzarella, and lump crab meat. For a truly decadent experience, the veal chop stuffed with prosciutto and fontina cheese is a must-try.
Pesto's culinary excellence has not gone unnoticed. Renowned South Philadelphia Review restaurant critic Phyllis Stein-Novack raves about their gnocchi, declaring it alone worth a visit. The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with its exceptional cuisine, creates a dining experience that has earned it a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.
Due to its popularity, reservations at Ristorante Pesto are highly recommended, especially for dinner. To secure your table and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates Italian family tradition and exceptional cuisine, be sure to book in advance.
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