Directly across from Neapolitan pizza mecca, The Original Frank Pepe’s™, and occupying the old Tony & Lucille’s spot, the new kid on the block, Gioia, is worlds away in look and feel. An airy, open space that manages to still feel cozy with dark booths and blonde wood tables, a glistening tiled bar, and a spotless open gourmet kitchen. What kind of fare are they serving? Italian, of course, but not your nonna’s Italian. This is modern, elegant Italian that gives a respectful nod to the old country. Gioia is Italian for joy, as the menu cheerfully declares, and it’s a fitting name for treat of a dining experience. Adding to the good times, Gioia boasts an attached gelateria, specialty market, and next spring—a rooftop bar!
Gioia values organization and optimization—they offer a pared-down wine list sorted from lightest-bodied to fullest-bodied, in red, white, and rosé, almost ensuring that you’ll be pleased with your selection. The cocktail list and food menus are laid out in similar relevant categories. To make sharing a meal with your dining companions easy and more affordable, the pasta and entrée menus are priced for full and half portions. However, this tempts one to order more than one should, quickly driving up the bill. The knowledgeable and experienced staff is happy (excited!) to guide you through the menu.
