Dining Out

Delicious Recovery

A Pier Marketplace restaurant reopens after the storm

Posted

Francesca Sarantapoulas and Gina Musto own Amalfi Oceanside, 1 Beach Street, Narragansett.

What inspired you to take ownership of Amalfi Oceanside?
Francesca Sarantapoulas: It was kind of on a whim. We spoke to the owner of the Village Inn Hotel and signed a contract on June 9 with the stipulation that we had to be up and running by June 15. Within six days we had found a chef, a full wait staff, full bar and created our menu. Interestingly enough, our opening day was one of our busiest days yet.

Tell us about your menu.

Gina Musto: It definitely has Mediterranean undertones. We both come from that background.
Francesca: There is a full raw bar featuring $2 lobster claws. A favorite on our menu is the Seafood Fra Diablo, a combination of lobster, scallops, shrimp, mussels and little necks in a spicy red sauce. We are also starting Prime Rib Fridays with queen and caveman cuts available. Sunday Brunch is available from 10am-2pm featuring a la carte options such as lobster benedict, and our build-your-own Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar.

Describe Amalifi’s atmosphere.
Francesca: Regardless of the time of year, you have beautiful views of Narragansett Town Beach and the bay. Inside we have a cozy full bar where we offer new-age martinis and local draft beers. Thursdays are open mic night, Fridays offer an acoustic set, and Saturdays have fun, Motown music.

How long did it take to re-open the restaurant after Hurricane Sandy struck?

Francesca: We were out of power for four days and when we did get our power back Thursday at 5pm, we had lost everything in our kitchen. By Friday at 5pm, we were completely restocked and ready to serve. We were able to do this because of the local vendors we use such as Belmont Market.

How have you contributed to the relief efforts?
Gina: We will be holding a Hurricane Relief Day on Sunday December 6 where 15% of all proceeds from brunch, lunch and dinner will be donated to the Red Cross.
Francesca: And we have both personally donated clothes and donated to the Red Cross.

What has struck you most about seeing Narragansett’s recovery?
Francesca: I personally love how communities pull together. Neighbors helping neighbors by having charging stations in their homes and offering hot showers. We pull together for whatever is needed. Being a new business owner and having the challenge of struggling through our first winter compounded with the aftermath of the hurricane has been trying to say the least.

amalfi oceanside, pier marketplace, narragansett, food, restaurants, dining, so rhode island

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here



X