It's easy to dream about being transported to the breathtaking sights, warm Mediterranean breezes, and enticing scents of southern Italy. Jessica Morse and Carlo Pellegrini, the owners of the local, authentic Italian bistro Pellegrini Cucina Italiana, turn this dream into reality. Every few years, the couple escapes to the idyllic beachfront city of Bisceglie and its surrounding areas.
In Bisceglie, they always visit friends and family. Carlo is in fact from the town, so a trip to Mama's delightful home kitchen is always on the itinerary. They peruse the regional fresh markets and eateries, acquiring fresh inspiration and ideas for culinary innovations that they can bring back home to Pellegrini.
Jessica and Carlo’s love and passion for Bisceglie is so infectious that it has inspired fellow Greeley residents to make their own dreams of visiting there come true.
"Our restaurant is a reflection of our love for Bisceglie and our personal story," explains Jessica, a Northern Colorado native who met Carlo in 2002 when living in Milan. The couple moved to Greeley in 2008 and opened Pellegrini in 2012, celebrating their 21st wedding anniversary this past August.
"Bisceglie is so much fun," Jessica continues. "There's the beach, great night life, fabulous history and then, on top of it, there's Carlo's family who we miss being so far away."
Although she isn’t from the region like Carlo, Jessica never tires of exploring and learning more about Bisceglie and all that it has to offer.
The couple has found that many friends and customers in Northern Colorado are equally intrigued by their story, from how they met to the journey of starting their restaurant and especially by Carlo himself.
When they shares stories of Bisceglie and the larger region of Puglia, eyes light up and ears perk up. Before long, some of these friends and customers, such as Chris and Randy Moser, head to Bisceglie and Puglia to see and experience the area for themselves.
"Though we've explored various regions of Italy," Chris says, "this was our first venture into the southern region of Puglia, and it truly captivated us. Staying in these extraordinary places allowed us to fully embrace the region's distinctive character and hospitality, which Carlo, with his passionate stories and recommendations, made us eager to experience firsthand."
"Pellegrini Cucina feels like a slice of Puglia right in our hometown," Randy concludes.
Pellegrini's food alone can transport you to streets of southern Italy from right here in Northen Colorado. And hey, maybe one day, much like Chris and Randy Moser, you can visit them, too.
At Pellegrini Cucina (2400 17th St.), diners are transported to the heart of southern Italy with every visit. This vibrant restaurant showcases fresh, home-made pastas that steal the spotlight, while the lively atmosphere echoes the charm of a bustling Italian market. The inviting aromas and the energetic buzz of the kitchen set the stage for an authentic culinary experience.
Pellegrini is dedicated to sharing the rich heritage of Italian cooking, aiming to delight the palate and ignite a passion for true Italian flavors. For an unforgettable taste of Italy, Pellegrini promises a warm, spirited dining experience that celebrates the essence of traditional Italian cuisine.