Ciao! Hello-Goodbye
LONG BRANCH, NJ: Say hello to Chef Mitchell Shenker and goodbye to Chef Marc Marotta as chef/owner of Ciao Ristorante. Classically trained New York Chef, Mitchell Shenker has purchased Ciao Ristorante, located at 75 Brighton Avenue, Long Branch, Monmouth County, New Jersey as reported by Richard R. Santore of Bielat Santore & Company, Allenhurst, New Jersey, the broker for the sale.
“After working in the food and wine industry for the last twenty years, I have fulfilled my lifelong dream of owning my own restaurant,” says Chef Shenker. “Our mission at Ciao is to provide every customer with a unique and satisfying dining experience,” continues Shenker.
Ciao Ristorante is a warm, intimate, Italian themed restaurant and one of Long Branch’s favorite dining destinations. Taking over from the originating chef/owner of Ciao Ristorante, Marc Marotta, Mr. Shenker seeks to continue the creativity of Marotta’s dishes and to add his own flair to the menu, including some of the most unique wine pairings found in any area restaurant. Chef Mitchell Shenkers’ cuisine is inspired by his love and passion for food and wine. The menu is transformed seasonally and utilizes local products where possible.
Mr. Shenker studied at the French Culinary Institute in the early nineties. During his career he worked for such notable chefs as Eric Lagrange of Park Bistro and Marcus Samuelson of Aquavit. He served tenure as the executive chef of New York University where he prepared dinners for such notable guests as President Bill Clinton, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, George Soros, Larry Tisch, Jaun Perez and many others. Shenker has also earned his Certified Wine Professional Degree from the Culinary Institute of America and now brings his passion for food and wine pairing to Ciao Ristorante.
The restaurant seats 45 inside in a very intimate setting and can accommodate an additional 15 guests on its sidewalk café during the fair weather months. Ciao Ristorante is open six days a week; closed Mondays. Chef Mitchell looks forward to your visit!