About Us

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

--  Roots dating back 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, FL, 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 amongst stunning waterways and backdrops of construction. When the city allowed gambling and lax regulation propelling abundant migration, from the north USA to downtown Miami, Fl.

Opening the first Italian establishment, on 1st Avenue and Brickell, called the Empire Bar & Grill. Later adapting the name, Allegro, introducing ‘Small Plates.’ Delicious samplings of Santo’s menu handed out to patrons enthusiastically, waiting to dine. 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, and a 3rd Allegro, Home of Fine Foods on Pelham Parkway, Bronx, NY. Where Mast' Antonio, thence Babbo and a Master chef, alongside his beautiful wife, Lucile, and brilliant pastry chef. Continued the family legacy delighting oodles of regulars from families to local businesses, doctors, nurses, fire fighters. Even up and coming actors, fashion designers, and a main hangout for NYPD’s, 41st precinct. Everyone loved the Allegro, whether the eclectic menu and signature dishes, the energetic bar with superb cocktails, wines, and unique collection of aged spirits, or the catered events from the weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, wild truffle, handmade-pasta, and annual venison soirees, always complimentary to dear friends, extended family, and patrons alike. 

Ultimately, the festive upbringing came full circle when this beloved restaurateur, Babbo, and his enterprising son and business partner, Santino. Expanded the family business into New York City's Discothèque scene. Building, club Heat out of an abandoned warehouse, in the Canal district, into one of the hottest nightclubs and main rival, to legendary Steve Rubell’s, Studio 54. Where multimedia frenzies, celebrity sightings, and two Rock and Roll shows a night causing long wait lines, almost reaching the West Side Highway --