Louisville – The Highlands neighborhood welcomed a new upscale Italian dining destination this spring when chefs Dallas McGarity and Tarek Hamada opened Cipollini in the former LouVino space on Bardstown Road. The restaurant, which opened five months ago, emphasizes the overall experience as much as the food, creating an atmosphere that feels like a scene from an Italian film.
Owners bring seasoned expertise
Both co‑owners bring decades of fine‑dining experience. Hamada, who has worked in New York City’s top Italian establishments since arriving in the United States in 1999, said his background helped shape Cipollini’s vision. McGarity, a James Beard Award finalist who also operates The Fat Lamb nearby, noted that the Highlands lacked a dedicated upscale Italian venue, making the location ideal for their concept.
Menu blends tradition with local flavor
Cipollini’s menu diverges from typical Italian fare in the area. Signature dishes include chicken parmesan, seared scallops, lobster pasta, and a house‑made tiramisu, each prepared with a subtle Kentucky influence. McGarity explained, “We don’t want to be like whoever’s down the street; we want to make something different, because that’s how you grow in the restaurant scene.”
The restaurant operates Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and reservations have been steady since opening, reflecting strong community interest in a new upscale dining option.
Community response
Local diners have responded positively, noting the surprise factor of an upscale Italian experience in a neighborhood traditionally known for casual eateries and craft breweries. The owners hope Cipollini will become a gathering place for families and friends seeking a refined yet welcoming setting.
With its focus on both culinary quality and an immersive dining environment, Cipollini adds a fresh dimension to the Highlands’ growing food scene, offering residents and visitors alike a reason to celebrate Louisville’s evolving culinary landscape.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
