By Michele Deluca
Niagara Gazette
NIAGARA FALLS —
Phil Villella was waiting for a sign.
These days, when he looks up, he can see it bright and clear, telling anyone who can read it that Villella’s Italian Restaurant is open for business at the corner of Rainbow Avenue and John Daly Boulevard.
There are changes inside the little Italian restaurant as well, as Villella works to enhance the restaurant he’s had open for a year.
He has sought counsel of a popular former restaurant owner, Filippo Indlima, who was once the co-owner of Villa Fortunata in Lewiston who later owned Phillipo’s in Buffalo which won the Taste of Buffalo’s top award several years ago for Italian rice balls.
A new menu at Villella’s includes the rice balls, as well as more upscale items such as “sliced crostinin bread with gorgonzola pesto sauce and figs.”
Dinner specials now include Italian favorites such as chicken or veal marsala, and chicken or veal parmigiana as well as lobster ravioli, frutti di Mare and penne or gnocchi Della Mamma with artichokes, sun dried tomatoes, peas, and shrimp in a garlic sauce.
“We’ve lowered the prices,” Villella said. “We want to appeal to the local people.”
The restaurant is also offering a wide variety of wines and will features an expanded wine list with varieties that include “Super Tuscans” and cheese plates for those who want lighter fare, Villella said.
“I want to give a real taste of Italian food to all the people of Niagara Falls,” Villella said.
Phl Villella formerly owned the Howard Johnsons on Niagara Falls Boulevard before purchasing the Super 8 and spending the last two years making improvements.
Villella has expanded facility with the addition of 16 rooms to a total of 55, refaced the building in stucco and added a swimming pool.
He has now turned his attention to the restaurant, hoping to increase business among beyond the tourist season and draw more locals.
While the restaurant is small, with only 8 tables and a small bar space, Villella is considering expanding given the comments he’s received from those who have tried the new menu.
“So far, it’s been exceptional,” he said. “People love the food.”
