Long Island, get your appetite ready. Vitolo & Sorrentino Italian Kitchen is taking over the former ITA Kitchen space at 9 Nassau Boulevard in Garden City South, bringing together two generations of Italian-American cooking with enough red-sauce nostalgia to make Sunday dinner feel like a major holiday.
The new restaurant is the brainchild of Anthony Vitolo, executive chef at Manhattan’s celebrity-favorite Emilio’s Ballato, and Long Island chef Salvatore Sorrentino, whose family has deep roots in the legendary Matteo’s restaurant dynasty. The pair are aiming to open their new venture in late October 2026, transforming the former ITA Kitchen into an upscale Italian supper club.
From Emilio’s Ballato to Garden City South
If you’ve ever tried to snag a table at Emilio’s Ballato on Houston Street, you know the restaurant has become something of a New York institution. Now, Vitolo is bringing that old-school Italian-American sensibility closer to home for Long Islanders.
Sorrentino brings his own family legacy to the partnership, creating a collaboration that combines Manhattan restaurant pedigree with Long Island’s affection for generous portions, familiar flavors, and meals that are never quite as short as planned.
The project began with successful pop-up dinners at the former ITA Kitchen, where the chefs tested dishes from both kitchens. The response was strong enough to turn a temporary collaboration into a permanent restaurant.
Chicken Scarpariello Wings, Veal Chops, and Serious Pasta
The menu is expected to feature Emilio’s Ballato favorites, including chicken scarpariello wings, meatballs, and the thin-pounded veal chop known as Veal Antonio. Sorrentino’s contributions include fried capellini amatriciana, while newer creations will add a few surprises to the traditional Italian-American lineup.
The dining room is also getting a makeover, trading ITA Kitchen’s greenery-heavy look for rich red velvet, warm golds, and espresso tones. With seating for approximately 120 guests and plans for weekend live music, the restaurant is aiming for a classic supper-club atmosphere.
Where Is Vitolo & Sorrentino Italian Kitchen?
Find the restaurant at 9 Nassau Boulevard, Garden City South, NY 11530.
For Long Islanders craving old-school Italian cooking without a trip into Manhattan, this new arrival could be worth the reservation. Just don’t show up expecting to leave hungry—or leave the leftovers behind.
