Da Gianni in Alabang: Authentic Italian Restaurant With a Heart
A quaint restaurant resides in the heart of Westgate Hub, Alabang called Da Gianni, and this may not be the first time you heard it.
Established in March 2018, Da Gianni Cucina Italiana is owned by Filipino-Italian celebrity Matteo Guidicelli, together with his cousin Donikko Fernan, and close friends Pisha Villa-Abrille and Evan Carapiet.
IMAGE from Da Gianni’s Facebook page
Da Gianni serves as a tribute to Matteo’s late grandfather, Gianni, who came to Cebu in the 1980s. Gianni was looking for authentic Italian food back then, but couldn’t find one. He was very passionate about the Italian taste thus started cooking on his own.
When Gianni passed away in 2016, his closest family and friends were inspired to open a restaurant that will serve as a tribute to him, as well as to provide everyone authentic Italian food. The simple idea gave birth to the first branch, Trattoria da Gianni, in Cebu City in 2017.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
A year later, they opened the second branch in Alabang, with Matteo’s father, Gianluca Guidicelli, as the head chef. They follow the farm-to-table concept and source their grass-fed meats from Argentina.
To start, you may want to sample their Gorgonzola Salad. This salad features prosciutto di parma and parmigiano, which both give off a strong savory flavor. You can taste the freshness of the greens upon the first crunch, too.
Gorgonzola Salad / IMAGE from Da Gianni’s Facebook page
A real treat for pizza lovers is the Burrata di Bufala Pizza. Made with a base of tomato sauce, topped with fresh mozzarella burrata di bufala napoletana–which melts creamily over the crust–, cherry tomatoes, sliced prosciutto crudo, and basil leaves.
Burrata di Buffala Pizza / IMAGE from Da Gianni’s Facebook page
For rice-lovers, the Marinara Risotto surely won’t disappoint you with its rich seafood flavor. It’s composed of shrimps, mussels, squid, and clams. This alone will keep you feeling full if you ask us!
Marinara Risotto / IMAGE from Philippine Primer
And of course, what’s Italian food without a hot plate of pasta? You should get their Carbonara Classico. Al dente pasta is tossed in a silky sauce made from eggs and pecorino cheese, which create a creamy yet light coating. Topping this with guanciale (cured pork cheek) adds extra umami and subtle crispness.
Carbonara Classico / IMAGE from Da Gianni’s Facebook page
Chorizo di Cebu Tagliatelle, on the other hand, blends Cebu’s famous chorizo, mushrooms, and ripe tomatoes in a lusciously rich cream sauce. You would not want to miss this creation if you want a light meal!
Chorizo di Cebu Tagliatelle / IMAGE from Da Gianni’s Facebook page
For meat lovers, this Italian restaurant’s Osso Buco di Gianni is a standout entree that truly embodies the depth of Italian home cooking. Beef shanks are slow-braised until fork-tender in a rich tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic herbs and spices.
Osso Buco di Gianni / IMAGE from Da Gianni’s Facebook page
Da Gianni also tries to incorporate twists into their menu, adding new dishes every now and then. They particularly love experimenting on the desserts. Additionally, they have a fully-functioning bar that features Italian cocktails and of course, premium wines.
IMAGE from Da Gianni’s Facebook page
As for the interior, it serves as a modern interpretation of Italian homes. The decorations are also some sort of echoes of Gianni’s persona, from his personal collections to his favorite paintings.
IMAGE from Da Gianni’s Facebook page
There are also photographs of Gianni around, and you surely won’t miss the painting of him on the brick wall.
IMAGE from Da Gianni’s Facebook page
Ultimately, what makes Da Gianni very special is that it’s more than a restaurant. It’s home.
“Da Gianni is more of a passion project,” Pisha said. While Ivan added, “We value the concept of family. Everybody puts a heart into this.”
With a very homey vibe, accommodating staff, and an exquisite menu, it’s no doubt that the majority of their customers are families. “We put customers at the center for everything. We want to provide the welcoming comfort that you feel when you’re with family,” Donikko concluded.
