Il Dono, a new Italian restaurant, is set to open this week in Hamilton Township.
Owner Justin Vitella, who noted that Il Dono means “the gift” in Italian, said the restaurant is named in honor of his late grandmother, who was born on Christmas Day.
The new eatery, at 812 Route 33, features house-made pastas, seafood, burgers, steaks, chicken, chops and more. The appetizer menu inclues “Nan’s Meatballs,” Shrimp Freddo, arancini and a shareable combination platter called “The Gift.”
A full bar offers handcrafted cocktails, wines by the glass and bottle, and seasonal specialty drinks.
Vitella, who also owns Bridge Street Burger and The Hawke in Lambertville, as well as Metro Grill in Ewing and Metro North in Princeton, said Hamilton is a vibrant area that was an ideal location for the Italian restaurant.
The space underwent a complete renovation, with everything gutted and redone, including installation of a large bar, private banquet room, dining rooms, and a brand-new kitchen.
The dining room features a mural painted by an artist who has worked on Vitella’s Lambertville properties. The artwork appears in black and white with only the pasta painted in color.
Vitella said the restaurant was designed to be “casual, approachable.”
He said the intent was to create a restaurant with excellent food where people would feel comfortable going for a special celebratory occasion or for an impromptu get-together.
“It’s a place where guests can choose a burger or nice steak and wine,” the owner said.
Il Dono will operate Tuesday through Sunday, serving lunch and dinner with happy hour specials. The restaurant will accept reservations and is taking a gradual approach to the opening to ensure guests have a good experience.
Private events and catering services will be available. Once established, Vitella said the restaurant plans to host wine dinners and tasting events.
For more information, call 609-939-1477.
Dining and Cooking