TULSA, Okla. –
Malfi on Brookside is serving up freshly-made pasta in a way that feels a bit like a trip to Italy.
From Dishwasher to Chef
Sam English grew up in kitchens, learning the art of cooking from his mother and grandmother. He spent holidays baking with them, standing on a stool to crack eggs, and knew from a young age that the kitchen would be his life.
English began working in restaurants while in high school, starting at Little Venice in Sand Springs as a dishwasher and busser. His dedication and talent quickly earned him opportunities to move up in the kitchen.
After high school, English spent a year studying culinary arts in Italy, immersing himself in the culture.
Returning to Oklahoma, he went back to Little Venice, quickly advancing from dishwasher to kitchen manager. He later worked in Aspen, Colorado, and at Noche in Oklahoma before joining Malfi Enoteca, part of the McNellie’s restaurant group.
Italian Flavors
Malfi, which opened in January, specializes in authentic Italian cuisine and handmade pasta. English now manages the kitchen. He says the restaurant focuses on creating a welcoming environment for diners.
“Our big thing at Malfi is we want you to come in and be relaxed. We want you to feel comfortable in a space where you are welcomed,” English said.
Menu highlights include Tagliatelle Bolognese, simmered for three to four hours, and a smoked, braised short rib entree. The restaurant also partners with local businesses, such as Country Bird Bakery, to highlight Tulsa’s community.
The Art of Handmade Pasta
English says making fresh pasta in-house is what makes the restaurant stand out.
“I understand you can get very good dried pasta out there, but if we can make handmade pasta in-house and supply the community with that, why wouldn’t we?” English said.
At Malfi, pasta making is a careful craft. Dough is kneaded, rolled, and double-laminated before being cut into tagliatelle or tagliolini.
Each sheet is unique, with slight variations that make it “perfectly imperfect,” English said.
A Place to Relax and Enjoy
English said he wants diners to feel the love and care that goes into every dish.
“We just need people to feel that and feel the comfort of being able to come in and sit down for multiple hours,” he said.
Malfi aims to bring a taste of Italy to Oklahoma, combining high-quality food, warm service, and a space where people can relax and enjoy the experience.
Malfi is at 3410 S Peoria Ave suite 200, Tulsa, OK 74105.
Dining and Cooking