This classic Italian dish was actually born in São Paulo 55 years ago

Photo collage by: Thays Bittar/Divulgação

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If you’re passionate about Italian restaurants in São Paulo, you’ve certainly heard of – or even tried – the famous rondelle. What not many people know is that this gastronomic classic wasn’t created in Italy, but in São Paulo. That’s right: the pasta that has won over Brazilians was born right here, in the Il Pastaio rotisserie.

With 55 years of history, Il Pastaio preserves its Mediterranean roots and offers customers a journey through the flavors of Italy, with fresh, authentic and handmade pasta. Founded by Italian immigrants, the restaurant is still run by the same family today, keeping alive the tradition that has made it one of the tastiest addresses in São Paulo.

Photo: Thays Bittar/Disclosure Italian-Paulistani DNA: learn about the origin of the rondelle

Il Pastaio was founded in 1970 by Italian immigrants Amedeo and Elide Di Perna. Shortly afterwards, the rotisserie in Alameda Santos made history by creating one of the most iconic pastas in national gastronomy: the rondelle.

Inspired by classic Italian recipes and with an author’s touch, the dish became a trademark of the house and spread throughout the country. In other words, many people don’t know it, but the rondelle is authentically São Paulo: the name has even been patented by the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI).

But Il Pastaio’s menu goes far beyond the rondelle. The rotisserie offers an exclusive range of handmade pastas, including varieties that are rare in Brazil, such as campanelle and radiatore. There are also desserts typical of Italian cuisine, such as cannoli and pastiera di grano, the classic grain pie from the Neapolitan region.

Photo: Thays Bittar/Divulgação Visit Il Pastaio!

Il Pastaio is at Alameda Santos, 44, in Cerqueira César. The rotisserie is open on Mondays from 9am to 4pm, Tuesdays to Saturdays from 9am to 7pm and Sundays from 9am to 2pm. It is also possible to order via delivery at this link.

To celebrate its 55th anniversary, the rotisserie is offering a special program with fresh pasta classes followed by tastings, as well as new additions to the menu. Check out more details on Il Pastaio’s social media!

Bruna, Anna Carolina, Anna Regina and Stephanie, the second and third generation at the head of Il Pastaio. Photo: Thays Bittar/Disclosure