The Story Behind Pasta al Dente

With over 20 year of experience, Jack Russo and cousin John Cusumano opened the doors to Pasta al Dente in April 1989. Jack had worked with Marie Callenders Restaurants for over 10 years and with John’s experience in owning several small-scale restaurants, opening this restaurant was a dream come true.

Located one block from the Naples canals, Jack and John sought a perfect vision for their fine but casual Italian eatery. Two separate, but empty restaurants were purchased and once the family moved in, the walls came down and up came Pasta al Dente. With the help of Chef Francesca Armienti a delicious menu was created with 30 authentic and traditional dishes all made from scratch and all adopting the flavors of Italy. Several servers and cooks had joined the forces of Jack, John and Chef Francesca and Pasta al Dente opened its doors to serve its first customer.

“After all, its these simple joys…fine food, fine wine and fine friends that make it all worthwhile. And you can find them all here at Pasta al Dente.”

This became the running motto and as a wonderful clientele began to form, Pasta al Dente become known for offering its customers with superb Italian cuisine in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Why the food and desserts would always continue its excellence, times had begun to change and the new millennium was upon them.  Jack and wife Vikki Russo were now running the restaurant and decided they were dedicated to make a new look for their eatery. The mirrored walls, glass-top tables and hanging plants came down and up came the Tuscan feel of Italy. Thanks to Jack and Vikki’s dear friends, Jim and Cherryl Cox they were able to turn the “old” Pasta al Dente into a little piece of Italy set in the heart of Long Beach’s Naples Island.

What started as a quaint restaurant had now expanded into a beautiful site that was able to serve more customers with a heated outside patio and a banquet room to accommodate anything from a small business meeting to rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions.

The rich and warm colors of Tuscany filled the dining room and the walls were adorned with small brick and photos of Jack’s family, including wedding photos of Jack’s grandparents and of Jack and Vikki. Not only is the history of Italy and the Russo family displayed so is the history of the city they serve, Naples Island. Pictures of the Naples canals from the 40s and 50s also bring the feeling of longevity.

When speaking of longevity, Pasta al Dente brings a real family atmosphere that customers enjoy. You can always count on seeing a familiar face strolling around the restaurant. If its not Jack and Vikki then it’s a server or cook that has been working for most of the 15 years they’ve been in business. They continue to offer superb cuisine and new, delicious specials each week. Additionally, customers don’t hesitate to order from Pasta al Dente’s changing fine wine list, which includes their house wines complete with a label picture of Jack’s grandparents.

We invite you to take advantage of some of Chef Francesca’s finest menu items including its Focachos, only found at Pasta al Dente, it’s Pollo Voila, Linguini di Mare and its delightful crème brulee caramelized right at the table – just to name a few.

See You There!