Michelin-starred restaurateur Mario Iaccarino will launch his first U.S. restaurant, Casa Don Alfonso, this fall at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis. The Mediterranean concept will reflect the Southern Italian sensibility of Iaccarino’s existing Don Alfonso locations around the world. Atlanta-based architecture and design practice the Johnson Studio is tasked with realizing the relaxed and approachable new eatery, which will total 140 seats.
Lounge and counter seating will be oriented around the restaurant’s open kitchen, while traditional table service will be offered in the dining room. Interiors will evoke the lavender fields of Sant’Agata, Italy, where the original Don Alfonso 1890 is located. The romantic ambiance will be enhanced by the light purple motif, a cascading glass wisteria chandelier, and handpainted floral tiles. Artworks depicting the Mediterranean shorelines and landscapes by Italian artist Anna Russo will be accented by architectural elements like arches and curves.
