Pubbelly & Scarpetta Chef Michael Pirolo Opening Macchialina Taverna Rustica

Add one more restaurant under Pubbelly's quickly expanding belt as they team up with soon to be ex-Scarpetta executive chef (and, incidentally, two-time Hottest Chef nominee) Michael Pirolo to create Macchialina Taverna Rustica, a "rustic Italian eatery" in the space formerly known as Silvano, in which "the recipe is simple; clean flavors, fresh ingredients and rustic accents." For example: salumi such as prosciutto, culatello, finocchiona, house made terrines, pâtés and sausages; antipastos such as polenta board with cippolinis, sweetbreads & sausage or broccoli rabe al Cesare ( "a fun take on a classic Caesar" ) . There will also be house made pizzas will also be featured blending two distinct styles hailing from Naples and, yep, NYC. Signature pastas will include Chef Michael's Taleggio and braised short rib lasagna, and Cavatelli “Macchialina” with ragu Napoletano and pecorino. Among the larger plates: pork chop Milanese with pork jus and arugula. Opening is expected sometime in late spring. Family style Sunday brunch is planned for summer. [EaterWire]