It’s that time of year again – time for the San Gennaro Festival.
But this year, Queensites won’t have to travel to Manhattan to experience the culture, the fun, or the food.
Vetro in Howard Beach is celebrating the San Gennaro Festival, thanks in part to executive chef Michael DeGeorgio, who spent 11 years as chef at a high profile Italian restaurant on Mulberry Street in Little Italy.
“I grew up with San Gennaro,” said DeGeorgio. “We know what it takes to make an authentic festival – the food, the décor and the atmosphere, and at Vetro this September we have done it.”
During the 11-day event, through September 26, Vetro will offer a special “San Gennaro Feast” menu of favorites like sausage and pepper heros, Braciole heros, fried calamari, fried shrimp, tribe marinara, rice balls with chopped meat, peas and ricotta and of course cannolis, zeppoles and napoleons to finish off the meal. Vetro’s regular menu will also be available during the feast.
“The menu is tied into regional specialty cuisine,” said DeGeorgio. “We’re looking to make this a tradition.”
In addition to the festival food menu, Vetro’s beautiful rooftop lounge, with its waterfront views and festive atmosphere, will feature live entertainment from with the sounds of the “Caleps featuring Gio Venutto,” who have been providing the finest of Italian/American music for more than 35 years. The rooftop lounge will be decorated with string lights and authentic food and nuts carts and the waiters adorned with specially decorated uniforms.
But what would a festival be without a raffle drawing?
Patrons can purchase a raffle ticket during the 11-day feast for a chance to win a seven-day trip for two to Italy and help a child in need. All raffle proceeds will benefit the charity “Angels on the Bay,” which provides life enhancing services for chronically ill, developmentally disabled and physically challenged children.
The final raffle drawing party will be held on Vetro’s Rooftop Lounge on Sunday, September 26 at 4 p.m. – rain or shine.
Vetro is located at 164-49 Cross Bay Boulevard. For more information, visit www.vetronyc.com or call 718-843-8387.
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