Allegria” means “happiness” in Italian, and Allegria Italian Food Experience delivers both happiness and a modern, “real” Italian menu. Owner Stefano Versace, a businessman and author who also owns the Konos Gelato brand, brought on Executive Chef Stefano Addari to create just that.
“It’s based on very few, well combined, well balanced ingredients that enhance each other’s taste,” Addari explained. “That said, the dish must have its own identity. All of our foods are fresh and very high quality, and everything here is strictly Italian, from the sodas to the wines and liquors in our bar.”
For a taste of Italy, the duo brought in a full-size Fiat 500, refitted as a gelato cart, filled with Konos gelato!
“We’re trying to do something different here,” Addari smiled.
“To me, gelato represents something that is 100 percent Italian — it is a perfect ambassador for Italy. And I feel that it’s my mission to give something back to Italy while achieving the American Dream,” said Versace.
In fact, through his gelato business, Versace has helped several Italian families come to America and realize that dream. He’s even written a book about it: American Ice Dream — the Sweet Side of Business.
Versace is excited about locating his businesses in Hollywood, because he knows that being here is important to expanding his brands in Broward County.
Some of the highlights of the Allegria Italian Food Experience menu are: Oven-roasted Portobello mushroom, topped with mixed grilled veggies served on a bed of potato beet purée, $18; Scarpariello, spaghetti pasta sautéed with a homemade traditional San Marzano tomato basil, garlic sauce, and Parmigiano cheese, $19; Salmone in Crosta, oven-roasted baked salmon filet in potato crust served with a side of cherry tomatoes, red onions, and oregano salad, $26; Scottadito, grilled lamb with lemony gremolata sauce and roasted potatoes, $44; and Tagliere Misto, the chef’s choice of best quality Italian imported charcuterie and cheeses, $30.
Allegria Italian Food Experience is open Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday from 5 pm to 10 pm, and Friday and Saturday from 5 pm to 11 pm. Takeout and delivery are available.
