5 minute read
Toscana Modern Italian Steakhouse
Business Profile by Sheila Turner-Hilliard
Photos courtesy of Frank Fusaro
Opening Soon!
Welcome to Toscana: Newtown Square’s newest restaurant that blends authentic Italian cuisine with world-class wines, dry-aged steaks, brick-oven pizzas, fresh seafood and a classic Italian raw bar.
The highly anticipated opening of Toscana (former site of Trattoria Giuseppe) has arrived after a complete renovation of the former restaurant. Co-owner Frank Fusaro said that the idea to open Toscana came to him this year, in January. "I loved the location and the space,” he said.
Frank’s vision was to create a place where folks would gather to enjoy a fantastic meal with family and friends and to provide our friends & neighbors with a “go-to” spot for happy hours and special events. Frank knew that Newtown Square needed a restaurant that could not only serve families, but also host happy hours, cater luncheons and hold weddings and receptions.
But before he could sign on the dotted line, he needed to convince his wife Paola.
I needed Paola to believe in my vision,” he said. “So, after countless discussions and a bit of encouraging, Paola agreed and the Toscana dream was born.
Paola and Frank Fusaro
Frank immediately went to work building the team. “My experience and expertise are in the financial arena, specifically in restaurant management,” explained Frank. He has known from past experience that you need a diverse “team” to be successful. “I know what I know. But more importantly, I know what I don’t know,” he explained. “I knew in order to make this a success, I needed a strong teammate with a proven record of success in operations.” Frank said there was no doubt that Alfredo Giannaccari was the right man to bring his vision to life.
Alfredo, a native of Naples, Italy, is the driving force behind two thriving West Chester restaurants: Greystone Oyster Bar and Mercato Ristorante and Bar. Visitors to Alfredo’s restaurants know that Alfredo serves only the most authentic dishes using the highest-quality ingredients. He works closely with his chefs, to ensure quality and consistency, and offers menus that honor their Italian heritage.
After Alfredo agreed to bring Toscana to fruition, he and Frank turned their focus to the culinary piece. This team member would be the game-changer and their decision was easy. The only chef to be the centerpiece in Toscana’s kitchen is Giusseppe Cardillo. Giusseppe hails from Naples, Italy, and brings over 30 years of experience to the restaurant. Both Frank and Alfredo know that Giusseppe will bring not only his culinary expertise, but that he will run Toscana’s kitchen in the most professional and efficient manner. Giusseppe is excited to bring you a menu full of homemade, traditional delicious meals, small plates, pizzas and a raw bar that will have you coming back for more.
When Toscana’s doors open, you will be greeted by a friendly and familiar face. General Manager Alessandro Ferrante is excited to welcome you all to experience Newtown Square’s Modern Italian Steakhouse. Toscana is a perfect place for any size gathering, even large parties and events. The Villas at Toscana is their ballroom space, which welcomes corporate events, fundraisers, large group luncheons and wedding receptions. They’ve thought of everything — even a newly added bridal suite.
The final piece to the Toscana team is Ann Kolenick. Ann brings over 15 years of restaurant experience, specifically private party, wedding and special event operations. Ann is a seasoned event planner and the owner of The Gables at Chadds Ford Restaurant and Bar. From start to finish, Ann will be there to guide you through every detail, to ensure a seamless event with superior service and delicious food in a gorgeous gathering space.
One step in the front door and you will be amazed not only by the total transformation of the space but the spectacular 45-seat bar that is the focal point of Toscana. Specialty cocktails, premium wines, craft beers and top-shelf liquor are all on the menu. Looks like Happy Hour just got a lot Happier! The open-concept kitchen and dining area design creates a space that has you feeling like you’re part of the Familia – because you are!
There is something for everyone at Toscana,” said Frank. “Whether you want to come for happy hour, bring the family for pizza, or have a dinner out with friends, Toscana is the place to be.
Frank said that although the renovations have taken longer than expected due to how the pandemic has disrupted the supply chain, he’s confident that you will all agree that Toscana was well worth the wait. He said, “We look forward to serving you the finest food and drinks in a friendly, relaxed and comfortable setting.”
On behalf of your Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, we welcome Toscana to the neighborhood, wish you much success and look forward to sharing a meal with you. Mangia!
Toscana is located at 4799 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square. For more information or to make a reservation, call 610-550-8000. You can also follow Toscana on Facebook and visit their website: www.ToscanaModernSteakhouse.com.
Food & Beverage Expert Contributor and Toscana co-Owner, Frank Fusaro
Delaware Valley’s New Authentic Italian Cuisine Restaurant. Something for Everyone at the Table!
610-550-8000
www.ToscanaModernSteakhouse.com
4799 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square (next to the Regal Edgmont Square 10 Movie Theater)
Now Taking Reservations for Private Parties in January!
Old-world classic Italian for the modern world:
• Pasta Specialties • Fresh Seafood • Brick-Oven Pizzas • Dry-Aged Steaks • World-Class Wines • Classic Italian Raw Bar
Something for everyone at Toscana:
• Gorgeous 45-seat bar serving specialty cocktails, premium wines, craft beers and top-shelf liquor • The Villas at Toscana Ballroom • Wedding receptions with bridal suite • Family dining or large parties • Fundraisers, luncheons, and corporate events
