Stories from the Lucciola table: Italian fine dining, wine culture, tasting experiences, private dining, and the people who shape our restaurant on the Upper West Side.

Lucciola Blog

Stories from the Lucciola Table

This is where we collect the ideas, dinners, wines, ingredients, and moments that define Lucciola. Some stories begin in the kitchen, others at the table, others in the cellar. Together, they reflect our way of thinking about Italian fine dining in New York City: with time, coherence, and intention.

The Allure of White Truffle: A Culinary Gem
RESTAURANT Eleonora Magnanelli RESTAURANT Eleonora Magnanelli

The Allure of White Truffle: A Culinary Gem

Discover the allure of white truffle in our latest article, where we explore its origins, harvesting, and culinary uses. Lucciola is the first restaurant in the USA to feature white truffle on its menu. Come and enjoy the creations of Chef Michele Casadei Massari for a unique culinary experience. Book now for an unforgettable dining experience.

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Exciting New Wine Club Dinner Season at Lucciola
WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi

Exciting New Wine Club Dinner Season at Lucciola

We are delighted to announce the launch of our new Wine Club Dinner season at Lucciola, beginning on September 5, 2024. This season promises an exploration of both young, innovative wineries and legendary estates, offering our guests a truly unique and enriching experience. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this series of dinners is designed to captivate your palate and expand your appreciation for the art of winemaking.

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Beyond Brut Rosé: A Journey Through Billecart-Salmon
WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi

Beyond Brut Rosé: A Journey Through Billecart-Salmon

Following the resounding success of the 2023 event, Lucciola once again hosted Billecart-Salmon for a culinary journey. Chef Michele Casadei Massari has curated a seven-course tasting menu paired with the latest releases from this Champagne House, including highlights like the 2012 Billecart-Salmon Elisabeth Rosé Vintage and the 2012 Louis Salmon Blanc de Blancs.

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Tasting Journey with Château Angelus and Lucciola
WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi

Tasting Journey with Château Angelus and Lucciola

Last night, Apr 3, 2023, at Lucciola, we kicked off our Wine Club's French Wines Month in style, showcasing the extraordinary Bordeaux from Chateau Angelus.

Maître d' Alexandra Lascu warmly welcomed the guests, adding a personal touch to the evening. From the first bite to the last sip, every moment celebrated culinary excellence and shared camaraderie.

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Suadela Showcase: An Evening of Italian Wine Excellence
WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi

Suadela Showcase: An Evening of Italian Wine Excellence

In the heart of New York City's Upper West Side, amidst the bustling streets of the metropolis, a symphony of flavors unfolded on the evening of March 20, 2024. At the esteemed Lucciola restaurant, renowned chef Michele Casadei Massari crafted an unforgettable seven-course menu to accompany the exquisite lineup of wines from Suadela.

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Lucciola: A Gastronomic Gem Crowned Best Restaurant in NYC by the New York State Restaurant Association's RISE Award
PRESS / AWARDS Alberto Ghezzi PRESS / AWARDS Alberto Ghezzi

Lucciola: A Gastronomic Gem Crowned Best Restaurant in NYC by the New York State Restaurant Association's RISE Award

In the bustling and eclectic tapestry of New York City's dining scene, one intimate establishment has risen to claim the crown of culinary excellence. Lucciola, nestled discreetly in the city's heart, has been bestowed with the prestigious title of Best Restaurant in NYC by the New York State Restaurant Association's RISE (Recognizing Industry Success and Excellence) Award.

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Explore Lucciola's Award-Winning Wines List
PRESS / AWARDS Alberto Ghezzi PRESS / AWARDS Alberto Ghezzi

Explore Lucciola's Award-Winning Wines List

Fine dining isn't just about exceptional food but crafting an unforgettable experience. Lucciola, a haven for gourmands, received the prestigious 2023 Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence. This recognition places us amongst the global elite, showcasing an extraordinary dedication to the art of wine.

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Wine Dinner with Donnafugata at Lucciola
WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi

Wine Dinner with Donnafugata at Lucciola

On the evening of Monday, February 26, 2024, Lucciola hosted an unforgettable wine dinner, featuring the exquisite wines of Donnafugata, a beacon among Sicilian wine brands. This event marked Lucciola's second wine dinner of the year, showcasing a remarkable collaboration with Donnafugata, a name synonymous with the best wines from Sicily. Antonio Rallo, the esteemed winemaker from Donnafugata, graced New York City with his presence, bringing with him the rich flavors and heritage of Sicilian wines after a nearly five-year absence.

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Champagne Dinner with Frank Pascal at Lucciola
WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi

Champagne Dinner with Frank Pascal at Lucciola

Lucciola, the exquisite Italian restaurant in the heart of the city, played host to a Champagne Dinner curated by none other than the masterful winemaker, Frank Pascal. This exclusive event, organized by the Wine Society, marked the beginning of a spectacular year for wine enthusiasts, bringing together the finest biodynamic wines from Champagne.

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Coda alla Vaccinara
BY CHEF MCM, ITALIAN FOOD CULTURE michele casadei massari BY CHEF MCM, ITALIAN FOOD CULTURE michele casadei massari

Coda alla Vaccinara

Dive into the savory world of "Coda alla Vaccinara," a traditional Roman oxtail stew with a rich history rooted in the heart of Rome's Testaccio district. Originating from the ingenuity of local butchers, this dish exemplifies the essence of 'cucina povera' - making the most out of simple, lesser-known ingredients. Discover the transformative journey of a humble cut of meat into a culinary masterpiece, a true testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of Rome's gastronomic heritage. Join us as we explore the flavors and stories behind this beloved Roman classic.

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A Journey Through Gattinara
WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi WINE DINNERS Alberto Ghezzi

A Journey Through Gattinara

Lucciola, New York's culinary gem, hosted an exclusive Travaglini wine dinner on October 26, 2023. Guided by Alessia Travaglini, guests embarked on a journey through Gattinara's terroir. Each pour—from the vibrant Coste della Sesia 2022 to the ethereal Nebolè—unveiled the region's rich heritage. Chef Michele Massari's culinary artistry enhanced the experience, with dishes thoughtfully paired to complement the wines' nuances. As Alessia shared the family's winemaking legacy, guests were transported to Gattinara's sun-drenched slopes. It was an evening of elegance, flavor, and camaraderie—a celebration of Travaglini's timeless wines and the enduring allure of Italian terroir.

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AUTHENTIC TORTELLINI RECIPE
BY CHEF MCM, ITALIAN FOOD CULTURE, RESTAURANT michele casadei massari BY CHEF MCM, ITALIAN FOOD CULTURE, RESTAURANT michele casadei massari

AUTHENTIC TORTELLINI RECIPE

Originating from Italy's Bologna region, tortellini pasta has a unique belly-button shape inspired by the goddess Venus. Authentic tortellini are crafted from a flour-and-egg dough filled with pork, mortadella, and raw ham. After being shaped, they're boiled in a flavorful hen broth. This timeless Italian recipe continues to delight palates globally.

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