Giancarlo Di Maggio, a talented and highly skilled chef from Conversano, in Southern Italy, came to New York to live out his passion for the culinary arts. He invites you to dine at Cassariano and experience an elegant and relaxed ambiance, and delicious, original, contemporary Italian dishes. His goal is to satisfy every patron in his restaurant with quality and consistency.

The dining room at the front has white linen covered tables, and a wall of glass doors that open to the outside, and a bar that draws a sophisticated crowd. The main dining room has a coffered ceiling with a large skylight, rich woodwork, a two sided stone fireplace, which can also be seen from their rear dining room, with comfortable banquettes. There's a romantic mood set by candlelight on each table. A private glass enclosed Chefs Table room, with a wine display, accommodates eight.

At Cassariano Italian Eatery everything is made fresh. Their diverse menu includes creative and many traditional Italian dishes. Signatures we sampled included Panzanella di Granchio, a modern presentation of jumbo lump crabmeat, marinated Italian bread, and avocado; Polenta Valdostana, a polenta cake covered with creamy fontina cheese and white truffle oil; and Pollo Scamorza e Pomodoro, chicken scalloppini, smoked mozzarella and tomatoes. There are also fresh pastas and house made desserts. The inspiration is from the dishes of Northern Italy bringing those authentic flavors to you. You can also visit their Venice, Florida restaurant on West Venice Avenue, 941-485-0507.