With the much-anticipated opening of
Cioppino on Aug. 15,
Cork Factory residents and visitors to Pittsburgh's Strip District have a new dining, shopping and socializing destination. During its first three days, Cioppino attracted more than 400 patrons.
In a concept that blends restaurant, bar and market, the new 10,400-square-foot commercial space features restaurant Cioppino—which also boasts a cigar bar—and il Mercato deli.
Featuring Tuscan-tinged American cuisine created by executive chef Greg Alauzen, Cioppino offers full dinner and small plate menus at both its restaurant and cigar bar. Restaurant-goers can choose between one of Cioppino’s dining areas, seasonal outdoor seating or private party room, which accommodates 40. On Saturdays—catering to the Strip’s shopping crowd—Cioppino's bar serves a special lunch menu.
Equal parts Old World Tuscany and contemporary chic, Cioppino—designed by
DRS Architects—features a warm earth tone and scarlet red palette, dark mahogany, leather seating, penshell light fixtures, and pressed tin ceilings. In a nod to the development’s neighboring urban lofts, Cioppino’s bar features cork panels and perimeter windows with skyline views.
Conveniently located within Cioppino’s 10,400-square-fooot space is also the Italian-style il Mercato, which carries traditional, breakfast and specialty sandwiches, to-go fare and baked goods. Specializing in gourmet Artisan and imported cheeses and high-quality deli meats, il Mercato also provides catering.
“We love the Strip District. It’s a neat concept and a great location for bringing Downtown back to the Strip. Everyone’s raved about the food so far,” says PIPA Group partner David Lamatrice, who owns Cioppino along with Chuck Hammel, Tom Trimm and Angelo and Joe Lamatrice. The group—known for its work running Amante and Clark Bar and Grill—are currently considering new venture opportunities in western Pa.
Writer:
Jennifer BaronSources: David Lamatrice and Dana Santucci, PIPA Group/Cioppino
Photograph copyright Brian Cohen