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The fire that closed La Cucina di Pinocchio was in July of 2005, and investigations and legal actions related to that continue. But local chef and restaurateur Mauro Aniello, who owns that space in the condo-ized building, is looking to the future.
The restaurant’s windows are covered, and a paper sign on the door says: “Exciting new restaurant and martini bar coming soon,” but in the meantime refers patrons to Aniello’s Monkey Bar/Bistro 63.
That fire began in a tanning salon in the building’s basement. Aniello, who did not operate Pinocchio’s, said that as a result of the fire’s damage, he needs to renovate the space and bring it up to code, and that he’s focused on getting it back to being a functioning restaurant. He confirmed that he was not intending to move Monkey Bar to that location.
So what might diners look forward to? Aniello hinted at a Mediterranean flavor and tapas in addition to the martinis, and said he's aiming to open by springtime.
And just what might this new endeavor be called?
“Nope. Can’t say.” he said with a smile. “Have to wait and see.”
-- Stephanie O’Keeffe
