Trattoria San Nicola
Trattoria San Nicola
By: Blake Montalto
Trattoria San Nicola in Paoli, PA, brings a true taste of Bari, Italy—the coastal hometown of chef and owner Vito Giannandrea—to the Main Line. Perched along the Adriatic Sea, Bari’s cuisine is deeply connected to the water, and that influence runs throughout Chef Vito’s menu.
Chef Vito’s culinary journey began in 1976, when he split his time between school in the winter and working in restaurant kitchens throughout the summer. That lifelong dedication to hospitality led him to open the original Trattoria San Nicola in Berwyn in 1995, followed by the Paoli location in 2004. Today, the restaurant feels like an open invitation to Italy, offering old-world charm, a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and timeless Italian cooking.
Meals often begin with comforting classics like Bruschetta al Pomodoro e Mozzarella, featuring toasted bread topped with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella, or Passato di Pomodoro con Carne di Granchio, a silky tomato soup enriched with sweet crab meat—especially satisfying on a chilly day.
Seafood remains a centerpiece of the menu. The Ravioli di Aragosta showcases black ink pasta stuffed with ricotta and lobster, sautéed with garlic and spicy oil, then finished with crab meat and diced tomatoes. Another standout is Gamberoni e Cappe Sante Grigliati, grilled jumbo shrimp and sea scallops brushed with garlic, herbs, and fresh lemon, served with penne pasta or mixed vegetables. For a lighter coastal option, the Trancia di Salmone alla Griglia pairs perfectly grilled salmon with salmoriglio, a bright Italian lemon-herb sauce.
Dessert is never an afterthought at Trattoria San Nicola. From classic cannoli and tiramisu to Limoncello Tartufo, the offerings are best enjoyed alongside a cappuccino—or an espresso martini—for a true Italian finish.
For diners seeking an authentic escape to the Italian coast without leaving Pennsylvania, Trattoria San Nicola delivers tradition, warmth, and a deep respect for the sea—one plate at a time.
