About Us

Born and raised in the restaurant and bar businesses, Wines, Foods, and Spirits expertise came naturally – Babbo’s daughters, Francesca, Chef, Sommelier, Freelance Journalist and Photographer, and Cecile, Baker, accomplished Businesswoman, master at Marketing, and Author. Along with brother, Mast' Antonio Junior, Chef Tony, ardently carry on the family tradition, and bring you the skinny on the best, FoodsNWines! 

--Roots dating back to over four generations from Italy to the USA. When nonno Santo opened his first Hotel and Restaurant in Stony Brook, Long Island, NY that tragically burned in a fire. Moved his young family to Miami for a fresh start, where Tony, Mast' Antonio, Santo affectionately, called his son. As a youngster, roller-skated to the local grocery store for family and neighbors, rode his pony, and fished in the Miami River where stunning waterways and backdrops of construction pressed along. When the city allowed gambling and lax regulation propelling a steady influx of migration, from the north USA to downtown Miami, Florida.

Opening a first Italian establishment on 1st Avenue and Brickell, called the Empire Bar & Grill. Later adapting the name, Allegro, introducing Santo’s ‘Small Plates,’ scrumptious samplings of his menu handed out to patrons avidly, waiting for a table. Whilst enjoying harmonious vibes from live bands and local musicians entertaining the guests. Hence, the name, ‘Allegro,’ was born and the next generation of family-owned restaurants, and bars.

Following a second Allegro and first sidewalk café, on Bruckner Blvd, Bronx, New York. Then a 3rd Allegro, Home of Fine Foods on Pelham Parkway, Bronx, NY. Where Mast' Antonio, AKA Babbo and Master chef, alongside his beautiful wife, Lucile, a brilliant pastry chef, continued the legacy. Delighting oodles of regulars from families and local businesses to doctors, nurses, fire fighters, even up and coming actors and fashion designers. Plus, a main hangout for NYPD’s finest, 41st precinct. They all loved the Allegro, with its vast menu and signature dishes, its energetic bar with superb cocktails and unique collection of wines and aged spirits. Also, the catered events from eclectic weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, wild truffle and handmade-pasta events, and the annual venison soiree. Always complimentary to dear friends, extended family, and patrons alike.

Finally, bringing the exciting upbringing full circle, this beloved restaurateur, Babbo, with his enterprising son and business partner, Santino. Expanded the family business into New York City's Discothèque scene. Building Club Heat from an abandoned warehouse in the Canal district into one of the hottest nightclubs, and main rival to the legendary Steve Rubell’s, Studio 54. Including media frenzies and celebrity sightings with two Rock and Roll shows a night, and long wait lines almost reaching the West Side Highway--