“Food makes the day better, no matter how good or bad your day is.”
That’s the philosophy behind Cibo Pasta Bar, a brand-new restaurant from Anthony Brew, the owner of Anthony’s Kitchen & Cocktails in Bellmore. After four years running his original concept, Brew opened Cibo earlier this month at 3037 Merrick Road in Wantagh — a place he describes as a modern Italian pasta bar with the ambiance of an upscale Manhattan restaurant.
“I didn’t want to turn into just another Italian restaurant on Merrick Road or just another pizza place,” Brew told Greater Long Island. “I felt there was a void in Nassau County so we created Long Island’s first pasta bar. There was a lot of love and thought put into it.”
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So, what is a pasta bar?
According to Brew, it’s a destination for those with an adventurous palate. You won’t find dishes like baked ziti or fettuccine Alfredo here. Instead, the menu features options like zozzona — a blend of carbonara, amatriciana and cacio e pepe.
“We have about 18 different types of sauces on the menu. They are all old family recipes, things you don’t find in other restaurants,” Brew said. “Then after you choose your sauce, you can choose the cut of pasta you want, most of which are fresh pastas.”
The menu
While pasta is the focus, the rest of the menu is just as creative. The antipasto platter is served sushi-style — wrapped and plated with chopsticks. Fried Italian wontons take the place of traditional money bags, served in Chinese takeout containers with a spicy aioli.
“I tried to not only make the flavor and taste outstanding, but I wanted everything look phenomenal as well,” Brew said. “Vibe is very important to me. From the second you pull up. When you feel good, you eat good.”
Cibo Pasta Bar is open six days a week and closed on Sundays, which Brew calls a day of rest for everyone. Reservations are accepted and encouraged. Valet parking is available.
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