Gusto Ristorante In Feasterville, Pennsylvania: Meet The Chef

Mar 9

We sat down with Executive Chef Andrea Esposito of Gusto Ristorante Italiano in Feasterville, Pennsylvania. Described as "A Taste of Italy," Gusto sources the finest ingredients directly from Italy, ensuring quality and authenticity.

All pasta, mozzarella, stracciata, meatballs, and desserts are homemade using traditional recipes from various Italian regions.

Tell us what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?

My morning begins with a strong espresso, a simple but essential part of my routine. I take this time to center myself before the busy day ahead. The restaurant opens at 4, so until then, I focus on preparing for the evening’s service. My team and I make everything from scratch—fresh pasta, mozzarella, and bread—ensuring everything stays true to the traditional recipes and techniques from Italy. We do not rely on any Italian-American adaptations; every dish we serve follows authentic, regional Italian practices, using only the highest quality DOP and IGP ingredients. This commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship is not just about food for me— it’s about honoring the culinary heritage of Italy that has been passed down through generations. I also do this for my wife and daughter, who are a big part of my journey.

best-italian-restaurant-philadelphia-pennsylvania — Gusto Ristorante Italiano in Feasterville, Pennsylvania

They help me with the work and remind me every day why this passion means so much to me. It’s a labor of love and tradition, which I hope shines through in every dish we serve. At the end of the day, after the restaurant closes, I enjoy spending time with my family, reflecting on the day’s work. It’s a moment to appreciate the effort we’ve put in and the satisfaction of staying true to our roots, before winding down and recharging for the next day.

Do you have any awards or achievements you'd like to mention?

Our restaurant has been named The Best Italian Restaurant in Pennsylvania for three consecutive years—2023 and 2024 by 5 Reasons to Visit. This prestigious recognition speaks to our unwavering commitment to preserving the true flavors of Italy (with no Italian-American adaptation), using only the finest Italian ingredients, and staying true to authentic regional recipes. We are also honored to receive the Eccellenza Italiana distinction for 2023, and 2024, a coveted award given to establishments that exemplify the highest standards of Italian culinary excellence. On a personal note, I, Chef Andrea, am proud to have been included in the Who’s Who Marquis, a recognition that celebrates professionals who have made a significant impact in their field. These achievements are not just a reflection of my dedication, but of the collective effort of my incredible team, whose passion for true Italian cuisine drives everything we do.

Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.

My favorite dish is “Tagliatelle al Tartufo,” tagliatelle pasta with black truffle. At Gusto, we make the tagliatelle in house, use the fresh garlic, and import the extra virgin olive oil and the black truffle directly from Italy. I love how simple and genuine ingredients can create an explosion of flavors.

What’s your Instagram so that readers can follow you?

It’s @gusto.feasterville.

Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?

I have always been deeply inspired by Antonino Cannavacciuolo, whose approach to cooking seamlessly blends traditional Italian values with modern innovation. What I admire most about him is his ability to stay rooted in the authentic flavors of Southern Italy, while simultaneously elevating dishes through refined techniques and a commitment to high-quality, local ingredients. His work at Villa Crespi, where he has earned Michelin stars, is a prime example of this balance—honoring the past while pushing the boundaries of what Italian cuisine can be.

In my own restaurant, I strive to carry forward this philosophy. We focus on using only the finest DOP and IGP-certified ingredients, ensuring that each dish reflects the rich culinary heritage of Italy. Like Cannavacciuolo, I believe that while authenticity is essential, creativity and respect for the ingredients can elevate traditional dishes to new heights. Every plate we serve is a tribute to Italy's culinary roots, but we aim to offer a fresh, modern perspective, just as he does with his own cuisine.

To aspiring chefs, my advice is simple: stay true to your roots, but never stop exploring and learning. Great cooking is about passion, discipline, and an unwavering respect for the ingredients and techniques that define the cuisine you represent. Don’t be afraid to innovate, but always remember that the foundation of great food lies in honoring the traditions of the past while embracing the possibilities of the future.

What do you typically cook at home?

When I’m at home, I typically make pizza, especially Neapolitan-style, which my wife absolutely loves. She’s one of my biggest fans, so it’s always a pleasure to cook for her. Growing up in Naples and working alongside my father as a pizzaiolo, pizza has always been a significant part of my life. At home, I enjoy experimenting with different pizza doughs from various regions of Italy. The classic Neapolitan dough, with its soft, chewy center and puffy, airy crust, is always a go-to, but I also love exploring other regional styles. In Rome, I appreciate the thin, crispy crust of pizza romana and the airy, rectangular slices of pizza al taglio. In Puglia, the dough is thicker and more focaccia-like, giving it a soft, chewy texture that works perfectly with local ingredients. Ligurian pizza, with its rich, oily dough, is more like focaccia —tender and flavorful. And from Sicily, I enjoy making sfincione—a thick, spongy, focaccia-style pizza topped with tomatoes, onions, anchovies, and breadcrumbs. I experiment with hydration levels, dough shapes, and techniques to perfect each style, and I’m always fascinated by how different ovens—whether wood-fired, electric, or gas—affect the final result. For me, making pizza at home is about staying connected to my roots while constantly refining my craft.

Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve created?

I have created the “Mozzarella Affumicata al Tavolo”, homemade mozzarella smoked at the table. Taking inspiration from the Provola Affumicata and from the Scamorza (typical Italian cheeses), my homemade mozzarella is smoked for few minutes at the table enhancing with its smell the incredible flavor.

What’s your favorite cocktail or beverage of choice?

When it comes to beverages, I have a strong appreciation for classic Italian drinks. I’m a big fan of Negronis, with their perfect balance of gin, vermouth rosso, and Campari. It’s a drink that reflects my love for bold flavors and simple, quality ingredients. When I’m looking for something a bit lighter, I also enjoy a refreshing Aperol Spritz, especially on a warm afternoon. It’s an iconic Italian cocktail that reminds me of the laid-back afternoons in Italy, enjoying good company and great conversation. Outside of cocktails, I love a good espresso—it’s a ritual for me. A strong shot of espresso in the morning or after a meal is a perfect way to center myself and finish the day.

Tell our readers why they should visit Gusto Ristorante Italiano?

I believe that visiting our restaurant is more than just about enjoying a meal—it's about experiencing the true essence of Italy.. Every dish we serve is crafted with passion, using only the finest, DOP and IGP-certified ingredients, and following traditional, regional recipes passed down through generations. We stay true to authentic Italian flavors, without any Italian-American adaptations, ensuring a dining experience that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Italy.

What sets us apart is our commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity. We make everything from scratch—from fresh pasta to mozzarella to our own bread—taking the time and care needed to offer you the best of Italy on your plate. We don’t just want to feed you; we want to share a piece of our culture, our history, and our love for great food.

If you’re looking for a dining experience that transports you straight to Italy, where every bite tells a story, then you should definitely visit us. We offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere where our team treats every guest like family, ensuring that your experience is both memorable and meaningful.

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