Business Profile by Sheila Turner-Hilliard Photos courtesy of Frank Fusaro
Opening Soon!! Paola and Frank Fusaro
Welcome to Toscana: Newtown Square’s newest restaurant that blends authentic Italian cuisine with world-class wines, dry-aged steaks, brick-oven pizzas, fresh seafood and a classic Italian raw bar.
I don’t know,” he explained. “I knew in order to make this a success, I needed a strong teammate with a proven record of success in operations.” Frank said there was no doubt that Alfredo Giannaccari was the right man to bring his vision to life.
The highly anticipated opening of Toscana (former site of Trattoria Giuseppe) has arrived after a complete renovation of the former restaurant. Co-owner Frank Fusaro said that the idea to open Toscana came to him this year, in January. “I loved the location and the space,” he said. Frank’s vision was to create a place where folks would gather to enjoy a fantastic meal with family and friends and to provide our friends & neighbors with a “go-to” spot for happy hours and special events.
Alfredo, a native of Naples, Italy, is the driving force behind two thriving West Chester restaurants: Greystone Oyster Bar and Mercato Ristorante and Bar. Visitors to Alfredo’s restaurants know that Alfredo serves only the most authentic dishes using the highest-quality ingredients. He works closely with his chefs, to ensure quality and consistency, and offers menus that honor their Italian heritage.
But before he could sign on the dotted line, he needed to convince his wife Paola. “I needed Paola to believe in my vision,” he said. Frank knew that Newtown Square needed a restaurant that could not only serve families, but also host happy hours, cater luncheons and hold weddings and receptions. “So, after countless discussions and a bit of encouraging, Paola agreed and the Toscana dream was born.” Frank immediately went to work building the team. “My experience and expertise are in the financial arena, specifically in restaurant management,” explained Frank. He has known from past experience that you need a diverse “team” to be successful. “I know what I know. But more importantly, I know what
After Alfredo agreed to bring Toscana to fruition, he and Frank turned their focus to the culinary piece. This team member would be the game-changer and their decision was easy. The only chef to be the centerpiece in Toscana’s kitchen is Giusseppe Cardillo. Giusseppe hails from Naples, Italy and brings over 30 years of experience to the restaurant. Both Frank and Alfredo know that Giusseppe will bring not only his culinary expertise, but that he will run Toscana’s kitchen in the most professional and efficient manner. Giusseppe is excited to bring you a menu full of homemade, traditional delicious meals, small plates, pizzas and a raw bar that will have you coming back for more. When Toscana’s doors open, you will be greeted by a friendly and familiar face. General Manager Alessandro Ferrante is excited to welcome you all to experience Newtown Square’s Modern Italian Steakhouse. Toscana is a perfect place for any size gathering, even large parties and events. The Villas at Toscana is their ballroom space, which welcomes corporate events, fundraisers, large group luncheons and wedding receptions. They’ve thought of everything — even a newly added bridal suite. The final piece to the Toscana team is Ann Kolenick. Ann brings over 15 years of restaurant experience, specifically private party, wedding and special event operations. Ann is a seasoned event planner and the owner of The Gables at Chadds Ford Restaurant and Bar. From start to finish, Ann will be there to guide you through every detail, to ensure a seamless event with superior service and delicious food in a gorgeous gathering space.
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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors
December 2021
