STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Chef Massimo Felici is inviting Staten Islanders to expand their palates with a first-ever French wine dinner at Don Cheech in Rosebank on Thursday, August 7.
The five-course dining experience, beginning at 7 p.m., continues Felici’s tradition of monthly wine dinners that originated at his former restaurant, VINUM, an acclaimed eatery acknowledged by Michelin. Also, Don Cheech has won the Wine Spectator Award for the second year in a row.
“I’d like to introduce Staten Islanders to a few popular French wines,” Felici said, noting that while Don Cheech carries French selections, customers rarely order them.
According to Felici, this hesitation stems from several factors: unfamiliarity with French wines, reluctance to spend money on unknown bottles, limited availability at local restaurants, and the typically higher price points of quality French vintages.
The tentative menu showcases classic French cuisine paired with celebrated wines. Diners can expect oysters with mignonette served with Champagne, moules marinières (mussels in white wine broth) paired with Sancerre, classic tenderloin steak tartare accompanied by red Beaujolais, and duck à l’orange paired with Côtes du Rhône. Dessert options include crème brûlée or apple tart tatin, served with pastis on ice.
Tickets cost $150 per person. Felici emphasized that a comparable dining experience would cost around $250 outside of Staten Island.
The evening will feature jazzy French music, and a certified sommelier will guide guests through each wine pairing. Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase the featured wines through Don Cheech’s license.
Don Cheech, located in Rosebank, blends Americanized Italian fare with modern presentation. The restaurant features a curated selection of unusual spirits, including rare Italian liqueurs, which complement its broad menu of steaks, pizza, pasta and housemade desserts. Through events like this, Felici aims to elevate the local dining scene while keeping it accessible.
Beyond his culinary ventures, Felici is founder of the Rosebank Merchants Association, which operates Bay Street and Beyond. The organization hosts forums and community events such as neighborhood cleanups.
Don Cheech is located at 1271 Bay St., Rosebankand can be reached at 718-285-4401 or via their website at doncheechnyc.com. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from noon to 10:30 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. It is closed on Mondays.
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Dining and Cooking