Cindy DeFlavio

Cindy DeFlavio

Unless you’ve been under a rock, it’s hard to miss all of the changes that have been taking place on Braddock Avenue. Most noticeably, there have been a myriad of new restaurants openings. One of those eateries, Cibo, has enjoyed a lot of early success. It’s changing menu, fresh seafood and homemade pastas have hungry patrons spreading the good word.

Cindy DeFlavio, owner/proprietor of Cibo, let me in on a few secrets that make the new Italian restaurant one of the premier places to dine in Regent Square.

Question #1

The east end was in dire need of a good ethnic restaurant- what were some of the factors you took into consideration when deciding to open an Italian eatery?

Location; Regent Square is an established neighborhood, we are prior business owners in the area, which never had an Italian restaurant and we being lovers of Italian fare wanted to fill the void of upscale Italian dining. The charm and warmth of the neighborhood lends itself to have an Italian eatery. Also, being a lover of outside dining, the neighborhood is great for people watching and there are always sights to see.

Question #2

It looks like Cibo has been doing quite well in its first months; what do you attribute your early success to?

Our early success can be attributed to persistence, attention to detail, putting forth excellent food and prompt and attentive service. It’s a day to day process having a good core team with front and back of house management. Also, having the freshest products on our ever-changing menu, and of course the huge support of this, and surrounding neighborhoods.

Question #3

What are some unexpected challenges you’ve had to face being a restaurant owner?

Dealing with a never ending flow of food providers trying to maintain the freshest products can be difficult, it’s very challenging to maintain the level of food quality our customers deserve.

Question #4

Can you please tell us about your general manager, Chris Halloran?

Chris Halloran has many years of experience in Italian fine dining, including management experience, and assisting servers in table side etiquette. He was raised around restaurants due to his mother’s experience, so a lot comes naturally to him. He’s also always willing to learn.

Question # 5

Rumor has it you’re an excellent cook. What are some of your favorite things to make?

We will be featuring my Italian wedding soup at Cibo. I also love making various pastas, and veal dishes. Working at Cibo has been very demanding, and restricts my kitchen time. I’m always willing to try new and exciting recipes.

Question # 6

Braddock Avenue is turning into an increasingly busy dining/business district. Are there other types of shops that you would like to see open in the East End?

I would love to see more retail shops; especially boutiques, perhaps a shoe store.

Chef Chuck Kerber

Cooksandeats.com

chuck@cooksandeats.com