Sal and Dina Zappone moved to Gilbert in 2007, took jobs in corporate America, and waited until the perfect opportunity came along to open a restaurant.
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It happened about two months ago, when the Zappones, who previously owned a restaurant in Utah before coming to the Valley, found a location in Gilbert, at 1652 North Higley Road (Higley and Rosemont Roads). Since then, there's been preparation, remodeling, and, finally, the opening of Zappone's Italian Bistro earlier this month.
Here's what diners can expect.
At their counter service bistro, the Zappones will offer home made pizza and pasta made from family recipes and using many ingredients imported from Italy.
Pizzas come in 14" and 16" sizes and include the Enoz, made with with fennel sausage, caramelized onions, mozzarella, and marinara; the Funghi, with roasted crimini, caramelized onions, fontina cheese, and truffle oil; and the Calabrese, with soppressata, roasted peppers, ricotta, basil, marinara, and mozzarella.
Pasta dishes such as fettucini bolognese, Mama Rosa's Spaghetti & Meatballs, and Nina's Homemade Lasagna are also available.
Zappone's also offers Italian beer, wine, and cocktails.
Zappone's Italian Bistro 1652 North Higley Road, Gilbert 480- 218-2338 www.zapponesbistro.com
Hours: Monday through Saturday: 11:00 a.m. - 9 p.m. Happy Hour: Everyday from 3 to 6 p.m.