Our Own Little Italy with Chris Rovezzi

FOOD: Chris Rovezzi, Villa Sofia

BAR: Nick Mallia, Bar Lunette

PHOTOGRAPHER & CHRONICLER: Alexandra Lewis

September, 2023

Expecting a chilly and drizzly evening, we set up a canopy on the deck and welcomed guests to a combination inside/outside setting. Despite the less-than-ideal weather, the closeness that ensued from everyone trying their best to stay dry resulted in great mingling circumstances! Brushing shoulders with everyone at the party, there were no lulls in conversation. 

For the first Autumn event of the year, Chris Rovezzi graced us with his delectable Italian comfort food. Warming the home, Chris was hard at work in the kitchen as the dinner guests socialized in the living room. The open concept of the house allowed us to watch as Chris masterfully created dish after dish. 

Plated and whisked out to the table, guests swiftly lined up to fill their plates. The menu included seasonally-inspired gnocchi, arancini, caprese salad, creamy tortellini, and perhaps the star of the show: a beef, fig, and goat cheese flatbread.

Inspired by Chris Rovezzi’s menu, Nick Mallia crafted the signature cocktail of the evening: King of a Big Dill. This citrusy, dill-tinged drink with all Italian ingredients was well-suited for sipping through the night. And sure enough, by the end of the night, not a drop of King of a Big Dill remained!