STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — If your tummy’s grumbling for a little food news, here’s your rundown. From a handoff of the reins in Dongan Hills to a Tottenville restaurant rebrand—plus a little muscle from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene—it’s a mozzarella moment and beyond. Here’s what’s cooking across the borough.
1. Baci Ristorante changes hands but keeps its Italian classics
1657 Richmond Rd. | 718-316-9707 | Dongan Hills
Baci has some new leadership, as per the Baci staff and social media posts. Baci debuted with fanfare in 2020 in the throes of the pandemic, when an open‑air celebration introduced the full‑service dining room and cocktail lounge to the former home of acclaimed Mario’s and, prior to that, Espana Royale. Reimagined by Alessandro Borgognone—of the former Chumley’s and the still‑acclaimed D.C. and Big Apple-anchored Sushi Nakazawa—Baci has always aimed high. The address has seen its share of headlines over the years, including a fire and a robbery. Baci moves forward with its new leadership continuing with a rooftop deck, private rooms and Italian fare at the core of its reputation.
2. KeKe’s becomes Vesuvio Trattoria & Pizzeria
7423 Amboy Rd. | 718-554-4134 | Tottenville
KeKe’s Grab and Go has officially transformed into Vesuvio Trattoria & Pizzeria, taking over the former Gigi & KeKe’s space. The refreshed spot now serves a fuller Italian menu—appetizers, panini, specialty pies like the MVP Sicilian and Brooklyn Pie, plus entrées from chicken parm to seafood fra diavolo. It’s not affiliated with the Bay Ridge Vesuvio.
3. Roberto’s Gourmet Kitchen maintains its vast offerings.
2048 Victory Blvd. | 718-524-7530 | Westerleigh…