Michael Toscano IN at New Stulman Restaurant? Perla

Hinted at in the post-New Year's Day rumormongering roundup, Michael Toscano, chef at Eataly's very excellent Manzo, is confirmed as the next chef and partner to join Gabriel Stulman's Little Wisco empire at Perla, his new restaurant in the old Bellavitae space at 24 Minetta Lane. Though Scopa was the name originally announced for the venture, Stulman, whose other restaurants include Joseph Leonard, Jeffrey's Grocery, and Fedora, says Perla (the name of his maternal grandmother), "just felt right, and fits better with the names of our other homes."

Stulman and Toscano (who met years ago through Joseph Leonard chef James McDuffee) are planning to serve Italian cuisine in what Stulman calls a traditional format, "primi, antipasti, secondi." The space also contains a wood-burning brick oven so there will be baked entrees for one to two as well. Though traditional, this will not be a red sauce joint. "We're not looking for casual food. We want the high caliber of Mike's food, the type of food he's created at places like Manzo and Babbo, with our vibe," says Stulman. Expect an upscale place where everyone knows your name.

Also joining Perla are Jen Sgobbo, the current Assistant Beverage Director at Gramercy Tavern, who will head up the wine list; Brian Bartels, current GM/Partner at Fedora, who will also be a partner at Perla and will head up the spirits and cocktail program; and Matt Kebbekus, Co-GM at Joseph Leonard & Jeffrey's Grocery, who will be the GM/Partner.

The restaurant is slated to open mid-March.
· Gabe Stulman to Add Scopa to his Little Wisco Empire [~ENY~]
· All Coverage of Gabe Stulman [~ENY~]
—Jasmine Moy