It all started decades ago when Joe Elefante left his home on Long Island and headed west to Tucson, looking for a way to bring authentic Italian cuisine to the Old Pueblo. Today, the restaurant that Joe bought is now in its third generation of Elefante family ownership, and we celebrated that beautiful family story from the very place they call home – Mama Louisa’s!

Chef Michael Elefante, Malto Joe, Matt Russell & David Torkko

Our celebrity co-host was David Torkko of Vino 750 and Orangewood Wines who discussed his spectacular portfolio and shared his thoughts on the season’s top varietals. We then transported our palates to Malta, when Malta Joe himself of Malta Joe’s Baked Goods introduced us to his savory pastries known as Pastizzi.

A selection from the Third Generation menu: brined pork chop with creamy polenta and raspberry gastrique

Mama Louisa’s own Chef Michael Elefante sat down with us as well to talk about his family’s story, his take on heritage and third generation cuisine, a series of upcominng beer pairing events, and a new cocktail menu which we worked our way through…including the Frankie Four Fingers which has already attracted a huge following. Mangia!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 56:11 — 38.6MB)