Osteria Novella, a new Italian restaurant on Madison's west side, is a testament to the power of passion and hard work. Founded by industry veterans Giovanni Novella and Evan Ackers, the restaurant is a labor of love that showcases their dedication to the craft. The space is filled with personal touches, from the artwork to the aromas, all designed to create an immersive dining experience. The menu, a blend of tradition and experimentation, is a reflection of Novella's Neopolitan heritage and the cuisine of the Amalfi Coast. The dishes are handmade with care, using nearly 70% of the restaurant's ingredients sourced from Italy, ensuring quality and supporting producers in his native country. The restaurant's polished style represents decades spent following a passion, and the warm, inviting space is filled with personal references, from the artist's rendering of Novella's grandmother's hand to the murals inspired by Scopa, an Italian game. Osteria Novella is not just a restaurant, but a lifestyle, and it's tough every day, but there's an immediate reward when you see a customer eating your pasta and it puts a smile on their face. The restaurant also caters to dietary restrictions, offering a vegan menu with handmade ingredients and a house-made vegan ricotta that adds a creamy texture to mimic dairy. In my opinion, Osteria Novella is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly immersive dining experience, and it's a testament to the power of hard work and passion.
