New restaurants open all the time in NEPA, but how often do you find a restaurant that’s affordable, has delicious food and drinks and gives you that authentic Italian feel? At Palazzo 53 you find all of that and more. Owned by Chris and Beth Barcia, they bring you to Italy with their fresh seafood, delicious pasta and homemade…everything!
We had a question-and-answer session with head chef and owner Chris, and their popular and very skilled bartender, Alex. Here’s what they had to say:
First we talked to Chris…
How long have you been in the restaurant business?
Too long, about 20 years
Any plans to open more restaurants?
Not today, but hopefully in the future
What is your favorite dish?
Orange chicken but at Palazzo the linguine with white clam sauce
Have you traveled anywhere that inspired any dishes?
The time I spent working in Little Italy really formed my style of cooking- in addition my experience in Northern California in wine country and San Francisco
Where did you study cooking?
Family owned restaurants in Queens, NY
What does Palazzo mean and why did you choose this name for your restaurant?
Palazzo is an Italian word meaning “a large splendid residence or public building, such as a palace or museum” 53 is our address- 53 South Main Street Pittston, PA 18640
What are the restaurant’s hours?
Tuesday- Saturday open at 5 for dinner
And then there was Alex…
How long have you been bartending?
Two years
Why did you decide to become a bartender?
Worked in specialty coffee stores as a barista and roaster as well as restaurants
Bartending feels like the perfect fusion of the two
What are some signature drinks and what would you recommend?
Thick as Thieves- Blue Coat Gin, fresh pineapple juice, English cucumber, muddled Thai chili served up
The Holy City- Tito’s Handmade vodka, fresh watermelon juice, rosewater, fresh lemon juice served up
The Middle Child- Siembra Azul tequila, fresh watermelon/mango/lime juices, pressed ginger, muddled mint served on a rock
Are there any nights that have specials for drinks?
I am always working on something new. Bar customers get to try my latest creations. I value their feedback!
Palazzo 53 is located at 53 South Main Street in Pittston. Get down there and try some of Alex’s new concoctions at the bar or for one of the delicious appetizers, entrees or desserts…you WON’T be disappointed!
