STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Chef Franco Ortega is marking 30 years at Italianissimo in South Beach, one of many anniversary milestones across Staten Island that speak to the staying power of local restaurant owners. His three‑decade run represents a rare kind of longevity in New York City’s notoriously unforgiving dining scene, arriving in a year marked by reflection—from the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday to Staten Island’s 365 years since its first permanent European settlement in 1661.
Located at 107 McClean Ave., Italianissimo has become what Ortega calls a Staten Island landmark, drawing diners from across the region—and former residents who now live out of state—for what many consider old‑school Italian done right.
“I never set out to chase trends,” Ortega said. “I just wanted to cook the way I was taught and take care of the people who walk through the door.”
Grit, growth and Italian cooking
Ortega’s journey in the restaurant industry began at the literal bottom. He started as a dishwasher, scrubbing down the kitchen and scraping pots.
“Everything pays off,” he said. “The time went by, and when I look back now, I see a beautiful family and a great business.”…