About DeLuca

Introducing Nashville’s highly anticipated addition to its culinary scene, DeLuca, the city’s newest upscale Italian restaurant. DeLuca is set to redefine the Italian dining experience by offering an array of authentic dishes meticulously crafted by the esteemed Chef Rosario DeLuca from Rome. Open to the public with a soft opening April 24, DeLuca is poised to become the upcoming hotspot in Nashville’s vibrant restaurant scene.

With the vision and guidance of impeccable restaurant visionary Angelo Ferrante and experienced restaurateur Martin Silverman, guests at DeLuca can experience authentic Italian and Roman tradition like never before. Chef Rosario noted, “Tradition is made up of the dishes of our culture, those that manage to emit an emotion. As a chef, my mission is to transport the authentic essence of Italian culture, tradition and cherished memories to the United States through every dish I create.”

Chef Rosario, born in Rome to Calabrian parents in the early 1970s, honed his culinary skills during summer visits to Calabria, learning ancient food preparation techniques from his grandmother Maria. Introduced to the restaurant world at just nine years old in Castelli Romani near Rome, Chef Rosario transitioned from serving to cooking in his early years. By the mid-1990s, he delved deeper into professional cooking with numerous influential figures globally. Recognized for his innovative “cucina” blending tradition with contemporary flair, Chef Rosario’s talent earned him features in prestigious publications like My New York Magazine. His commitment to experimenting while preserving Italian culinary traditions has garnered international acclaim.

Carbonara, Amatriciana and Cacio e Pepe represent the pinnacle of DeLuca’s culinary offerings. These recipes remain as authentic as the day they were made by Chef Rosario and General Manager Angelo Ferrante’s Roman ancestors. “No substitutions or add-ons,” assures Ferrante, rejecting the compromises found in less authentic establishments. “Only true flavors of the Ancient City.”

The menu features fresh caught Spigola, salt-baked and served tableside, flown in twice a week from the Mediterranean Sea. Chef’s Ossobuco promises a unique delicacy, with truffle playing a prominent role in the cuisine. “The freshness of our ingredients ensures a remarkable dining experience,” said Chef Rosario.

From the sophisticated bar lounge to the refined dining room, and the delightfully unique menu in between, Angelo said, “There’s truly nothing else like it in Nashville. Curated in authentic Italian style, DeLuca sets the standard for dining in Nashville. Elevated with ingredients and libations found only in Italy, these flavors promise an unparalleled culinary experience. Chef and I are thrilled to bring our passion and authenticity to this new endeavor.”

Born in Rome, Angelo Ferrante started his professional journey as a fighter pilot in the Italian Air Force and later served as an airline pilot in the United States. Transitioning to the restaurant business in 2006, he began his career as a bartender in New York City, swiftly climbing the ranks to his first managerial role at a steakhouse. Since relocating to Nashville fourteen years ago, Ferrante has cultivated a diverse expertise, contributing to the successful openings of numerous restaurants across the Southeast. Notable accomplishments include managing renowned establishments including Kayne Prime, Prima and Yolan, where he achieved the 2023 Best Fine Dining US award for Food Magazine with Yolan, Four Stars Forbes in 2022 and 2023, and Best in Nashville for Kayne Prime in 2012, 2013 and 2014. As a Sommelier Level 2, Ferrante meticulously curates wine offerings to enhance guests’ dining experience with expert food and wine pairings.

DeLuca is now serving guests at 21 White Bridge Road in Nashville. The dining room is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 pm until 10 pm with complimentary parking available. Reservations are recommended and can be secured online through OpenTable or by calling DeLuca at 615-352-0555. We look forward to providing an exceptional, authentic Italian dining experience.