Derby native opens cafe in downtown Ansonia

Derby native Nick DiGiovanni, left, and Ansonia Mayor David S. Cassetti Monday celebrate the grand opening of DiGiovanni's Cafe & Catering with cups of espresso.

ANSONIA - Espresso, anyone?

Derby native Nick DiGiovanni, owner of DiGiovanni’s Cafe and Catering, is ready to make a cup of coffee, cappuccino, latte, or espresso for customers at his restaurant, 344 Main St.

In addition to the Espresso Bar selections, DiGiovanni serves breakfast, lunch, and treats like Italian cookies, cakes, and cannolis. 

Mayor David S. Cassetti and Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce President Bill Purcell helped DiGiovanni and his family celebrate a grand opening Monday.

Cassetti said, “It is a great place to grab breakfast or lunch or to enjoy a homemade Italian pastry and coffee. Nick DiGiovanni is a skilled chef and caterer and he has put a lot of time and effort into his new place. I have no doubt he will be successful."

DiGiovanni has hired four full-time employees for the cafe, which features traditional Italian cuisine. He opened his catering business in January.

DiGiovanni, a third generation Italian-American, is a graduate of Johnson & Wales University with an A.S. degree in culinary arts and a B.S. degree in food service management.

In 2006 he was selected to work for the FIFA organization, the international soccer governing body, at the world cup in Munich, and had the opportunity to cook for Angela Merkel, chancellor of Germany.

Purcell said "the sun keeps shining on the city of Ansonia," and he congratulated Cassetti and Economic Development Director Sheila O'Malley on taking the steps necessary to move Ansonia forward. 
"The Valley has become a hotbed of culinary experiences," Purcell said. Downtown Ansonia boasts several restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. “Businesses feed off one another and this a positive sign that we have a restaurant cluster on Main Street," O'Malley said.

"I'm trying to boost up the economy one panini at a time," DiGiovanni said with a smile. "Everything is top of the line and I hope everyone enjoys."

Seymour resident Joe Paolillo said he was there as a friend to support the DiGiovanni family. 

"I'm happy to have a place to come and have my cappuccino," he said. "This is what it's all about: food and good people."

DiGiovanni, holding extra-large scissors, joins Cassetti to cut the ribbon at his new restaurant surrounded by family and friends. At left holding the ribbon is Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce President Bill Purcell.

The shop sells deli items, homemade soups, salads, and imported pastas and olives to tantalize the taste buds. 

For something sweet to go with your coffee, this case features delectable-looking Italian pastries. 

As an Ansonia resident, I'm happy to see DiGiovanni set up shop downtown. I wish him all the best in his new endeavor.