The Big Picture

Lago Trattoria translates literally from the Italian as 'lake restaurant,' an apt description, as Lago Trattoria is located in Newport, Vermont, on the shores of international Lake Memphremagog. But a literal translation does little to explain the highly rated dining experience found each night of the week at Lago Trattoria. At first bite, the simple yet tasteful Mediterranean and Italian fare lets diners realize they have transcended the status quo.

From the varied and ever-changing Italian and Mediterranean menu to the tasteful, relaxed atmosphere--high-ceilings with slow-turning fans, live plants, comfortable seating for sixty, with warm-weather seating for an additional twenty-five outside, and tastefully decorated with pottery and artwork brought back from the Richardi's many trips to Italy--Lago Trattoria is celebrated far and wide as much more than a place to eat, it is a dining experience unparalleled in New England.

In warm weather, Lago Trattoria offers a singular outdoor dining experience--the sidewalk becomes an alfresco extension of the restaurant, complete with umbrellas, ficus trees, and comfortable seating for twenty-five, and views of the lake.

The service is second to none. There are twelve people on staff. Three work in the kitchen and the rest are there to ensure a top-shelf dining experience.

Indeed, Lago Trattoria has become one of the most popular eateries in the entire Northeast since chef and owner Frank Richardi and his wife and co-owner, Michelle, opened their doors in 2001. Since that time, thousands of curious diners have sampled the elegant yet simple Mediterranean and Italian fare and become die-hard devotees, eager for a return visit.

The Specifics

Lago Trattoria offers an extensive wine list with hundreds of labels available, and there's a special emphasis on Italian wines. The bar carries a full complement of liquors, as well as a fine selection of beer, including imported Italian brands. And don't forget to ask about the specialty Martini list!

Opposite the well-stocked bar is an open kitchen in the center of the restaurant--watching Frank at work is all part of the experience. His dishes (many derive from old family recipes) are true Mediterranean and Italian creations--lighter, fresh-tasting fare offering more flavor variety than the traditional, heavy pasta-and-sauce dishes most Americans associate with Italian cuisine.

"Our emphasis is not on heavy sauces," says Frank. "We use only the best, freshest quality ingredients, and everything here is homemade." Most afternoons find Frank making fresh bread, pasta, desserts, and more for use that evening in the restaurant.

Weekly specials, including appetizers, pastas, entrees, and desserts, form the core of Frank's ever-evolving menu. "We change our menu constantly. It keeps it exciting for us and for the customers," he says.

Frank is committed to using as much Vermont-produced organic food as possible, and contracts with local farmers for much of his produce (though Frank does make regular trips to Boston for specialty items such as his olive oil). Each winter, Frank works with the folks at Berry Creek Organic Farm in Westfield, Vermont, in selecting seed varieties for his produce for the upcoming growing season. In addition, Frank relies on his own garden for many of his basics. His average crop consists of 300 basil plants and 75 tomato plants. He also relies on lush, potted rosemary plants that he's nurtured for more than a decade.

About the Richardis

Frank grew up in a multicultural family--an Italian father and a French mother--just south of Boston in Braintree, Massachusetts. His wife, Michelle, hailed from the nearby town of Hanover.

Chef Frank Richardi adds a bit of flair and flame to one of his creations.

Though he's had professional training, Frank's primarily self taught, learning on the job. He spent 23 years working in other people's kitchens, one of which was his cousin's famous Caffe Bella--which consistently rates as one of New England's top three restaurants--where he spent a decade as sous chef.

The Richardis spent several years visiting Vermont's Northeast Kingdom and when an opportunity for a restaurant space became available on Newport's Main Street, they moved to the area full time and rolled up their sleeves. The result of their labors, Lago Trattoria, opened in 2001, and Frank, Michelle, and their two daughters, Angelina and Francesca, have never looked back. And in true family fashion, Frank's sister, Sandy, the culinary instructor at the North Country Career Center, also helps out a few days a week as Frank's relief chef.

Visit Lago Express Lunch & Gourmet Market!

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Lago Trattoria
95 Main Street • Newport, Vermont 05855 • 802-334-8222
Open seven nights a week, 5 p.m. to closing
www.lagotrattoria.com