Vesuvio Erupts!

June 1, 2011

Vesuvio Erupts!

Carmel will never be the same.

The new Vesuvio restaurant is located on the corner of 6th & Junipero in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. Last year when Pèpe heard that Piatti was considering closing its restaurant and the building was for sale, he jumped at the chance to own this landmark building in Carmel.

Pèpe chose the name “Vesuvio”, because it is the symbol of power and strength of Southern Italy. It is the volcano (Mt. Vesuvius) which overlooks the bay of Naples and erupted in 79AD burying Pompeii.

Naples (Napoli) was the ancient port for Rome during the Roman Empire, and this region was the playground for the rich, famous and powerful of that era. Pèpe’s family is originally from this region, known as Campania. Vesuvio will be a modern day testament to the history, style, culture and cuisine of Campania.

Growing up in New Jersey, but traveling back to visit his relatives in Campania often, Pèpe always noticed the differences between the cooking styles of his cousins on both sides of the Atlantic. Pèpe’s well-known Carmel bistro “Little Napoli” focuses on his Italian-American heritage, while Vesuvio will feature recipes from his family, including cousins and great-aunts from Southern Italy.

At Vesuvio, chef Pèpe’s culinary style takes the so called “Mediterranean Diet” to the next level. It is thought that the diet among Mediterranean countries is healthier than the Northern European and American diet because, more olive oil, grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and fresh fish are consumed.

The ingredients used at Vesuvio are mostly imported from Italy, or made in house, and always of the finest quality. Pèpe will call his cooking style at Vesuvio the “Italian Lifestyle Diet”.

Both of Pèpe’s sons, Christian and GianAntonio, have joined in the creation of the new Vesuvio and will be an integral part of the opening team.

The wine list at Vesuvio is comprised primarily of wines from Southern Italy, along with Pèpe’s wines from Atlas Peak in Napa and his newest creation to commemorate Vesuvio, “Erupzione” which features a sangiovese/malbec blend never before attempted.

These carefully chosen wines are paired perfectly with the traditional food flavors of Southern Italy. Wineries such as Mastroberardino from Campania, Tormaresca from Puglia and Planeta from Sicily will be presented.

Vesuvio’s main bar and the Starlight 65 Rooftop Lounge both feature full bars with a unique collection of mixed drinks, specialty cocktails and the area’s best beer selection.