Our Spotlight shines on a new advertiser, Ponticello, the beautiful Italian restaurant, specializing in Northern Italian Cuisine, located in the heart of Astoria.
Ponticello is owned by two friends, Pepi Honovic and Luigi Kucica, who met in 1969 and who came to America from Croatia. They both had thoughts of being in the restaurant business at early ages. They arrived in America and programmed themselves to realize their dreams knowing that hard work was the way to go.
Ponticello is the result of that hard work. This stunningly beautiful restaurant has been located in Astoria for 28 years, starting out as a small eatery and expanding to its current size of several dining rooms, and 4 private dining rooms, including a wine cellar, which also includes a room for small parties and, a room that is referred to as the VIP room.
Ponticello caters to all parties; funerals, anniversaries, christenings, showers. I could go on but you get the picture. If you wake up one day and you want to plan a party because it’s, let’s say “Tuesday,” Ponticello will cater it for you! My daughter, Carol, recently went to a christening party at Ponticello and she gave me her own review. She stated, “Oh my God, I have never seen so much delicious food at one party!” And, she said, everyone in the room felt “special” with all the attention given by Ponticello staff. There you have it, these guys are great. Keep them in mind for your next special occasion.
They also feature a piano player, Danny, on Friday and Saturday nights. Danny is a Professor of Music at St. John’s College when he’s not playing piano at Ponticello. If you arrive by car the friendly Valet, John, greets you in the parking lot.
Their menu is broad, including fresh fish daily and all the meat and pasta dishes you can think of, exquisitely prepared Northern Italian style by their talented cooks. Pepi said that the veal dishes like Oso Buco are particularly popular and they even have Venison, when available, on their extensive menu. He stated that Ponticello is a favorite for Met fans who want a pleasant dining experience before the game at Citi Field.
The Queens Chapter of the New York State Restaurant Association chose Pepi and Luigi as Restaurateurs of the Year in 1999. These are two guys who recall their humble beginnings in Croatia, who worked very hard and who totally love the success they are experiencing in this great place called America. In fact, in his younger years, Pepi once lived on 74th Street in Middle Village and he still has fond memories of his neighbors and the community.
On your next dinner out call Ponticello and book a table, tell them you read about them in the Juniper Berry and you will have discovered one of your more rewarding dining experiences. Let Pepi and Luigi and the rest of their fine staff fuss over you. You’ll love it!

Ponticello Ristorante
46-11 Broadway
Astoria, NY 11103 Tel: 718 278 4514
www.ponticello
ristorante.com