Avvio Italian Kitchen, the new restaurant from former Sabatino’s co-head chef Joel Piedra, is open and serving specialities like steaks, seafood, pasta, and — of course — Shrimp DeJonghe. News of the forthcoming spot broke in early September, much to the delight of Sabatino’s fans who have been missing the beloved Northwest Side Italian-American staple since it closed in 2018.
Those in-the-know may recognize a number Avvio’s menu offerings. Appetizers include classics like Oysters Rockefeller and prosciutto di parma with Parmigiano Reggiano, followed by plenty of pasta, from gnocchi to tortellini to Fettucini A Mare Chiaro (clams, shrimp, calamari, mussels, white sauce).