An Exclusive Interview with Jacopo Falleni: The Heart Behind Nonna
Introduction
Welcome to a delicious dive into the story of Nonna, a charming Italian restaurant nestled in Westlake Village, California. Known for its soul-warming meals and heartfelt hospitality, Nonna is more than just a place to eat—it's an experience built on love, memory, and tradition. At the heart of it all is Jacopo Falleni, the passionate owner and culinary mastermind behind the restaurant.
This interview is brought to you in collaboration with Dominic Detrick of Front Gate Real Estate—the #1 team at Compass and among the top 1% in the nation. A devoted fan of Italian cuisine, Dominic often refers his elite clientele to Nonna for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The Story Behind Nonna
Jacopo Falleni’s journey began in Florence, Italy, where his roots in hospitality took hold early. A graduate with honors from the Instituto Professionale per I Servizi Alberghieri, he ventured to the U.S. to expand his horizons. “Travel is necessary to acquire culture and knowledge,” he says, and it’s a belief that helped him evolve from running a gelato shop in NYC to overseeing high-end dining experiences in California.
Nonna was born from the desire to honor tradition and pay homage to every loving grandmother—or “Nonna”—who made meals with heart. “Each dish has a story,” Jacopo explains. “We don’t just cook food—we bring memories to life.”
The Essence of Italian Hospitality
From the moment guests walk into Nonna, they’re welcomed like family. The rustic, cozy interior creates a nostalgic atmosphere that mirrors a traditional Italian home. “We want you to feel like you’re back at your Nonna’s table,” Jacopo says. “Where you’re not just eating—you’re being cared for.”
The philosophy is simple: serve food with warmth, soul, and respect for tradition. It’s a mantra that defines not just the dishes, but also the service, ambiance, and energy of the place.
Crafting the Menu: A Labor of Love
Every plate at Nonna is a testament to time-honored recipes and premium ingredients. Jacopo emphasizes sourcing both locally and from Italy to ensure authenticity. “We make everything from scratch—our sauces, pastas, desserts. We want every bite to transport you.”
The menu is a delicate balance between tradition and innovation. While guests will find comforting classics, they’re also invited to try modern interpretations that remain rooted in Italian flavor profiles.
Jacopo Falleni’s Top 5 Favorite Dishes
- Lasagna della Nonna: “This is comfort food at its best. Layers of pasta, rich ragu, and creamy béchamel—it’s a hug on a plate.”
- Tagliatelle al Tartufo: “Handmade pasta with black truffle cream sauce. It’s elegant, aromatic, and incredibly indulgent.”
- Polpette della Casa: “Our house-made meatballs simmered in marinara. A true family recipe—flavorful and tender.”
- Branzino al Forno: “Whole roasted sea bass, seasoned simply and perfectly. It represents the Mediterranean way of cooking—clean, healthy, flavorful.”
- Tiramisu Tradizionale: “It’s the classic dessert but done with reverence. Light mascarpone, espresso-soaked savoiardi—it melts in your mouth.”
Craft Cocktails and Pairings
Jacopo’s background in mixology adds a unique edge to Nonna’s beverage program. “Every cocktail has a story,” he says. From the citrusy “Sicilian Sunset” to the bold “Firenze Negroni,” the drinks are crafted with the same passion as the food.
Wine pairings are curated with care—mostly Italian vintages that enhance the dining experience. “The right wine elevates everything. I love helping guests find their perfect match.”
Nonna’s Signature Atmosphere
Wooden tables, candlelight, soft Italian music, and warm hues make Nonna feel like home. “We’ve created a space where people slow down, laugh, savor. That’s what dining should be,” says Jacopo.
Behind the Kitchen Doors
The kitchen team is a tight-knit group, many of whom have worked with Jacopo for years. “We’re like a family back there. Everyone brings love and pride to what they do.”
Community and Connection
Nonna isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a community hub. They offer catering, host private events, and partner with local businesses. Collaborating with Dominic Detrick is a natural fit, as both share a commitment to excellence and personal touch.
The Role of Family in Everything
“My Nonna inspired everything,” Jacopo shares. “She taught me how food connects people.” Today, he passes on those lessons through every dish. The restaurant honors all grandmothers who cooked with love and passion.
Memorable Guest Moments
Jacopo fondly recalls anniversaries, proposals, and heartfelt thank-yous. “We’ve had families who now bring their kids to dine. That kind of loyalty—it’s humbling.”
Challenges and Triumphs
Running a restaurant is never easy, but Jacopo thrives on challenge. From staffing to maintaining quality, every hurdle has been met with resilience. “The biggest reward is seeing people leave happy.”
Looking to the Future
Nonna will continue evolving while honoring its roots. Plans include seasonal menu additions and more community events. “I want to keep telling stories through food,” Jacopo affirms.
How to Experience Nonna
Nonna is open daily from 5 PM in Westlake Village. Reservations are recommended. For first-timers, Jacopo suggests starting with the Lasagna della Nonna, paired with a glass of Chianti.
Closing Remarks
A heartfelt thank you to Jacopo Falleni for sharing his story and passion. And a special shoutout to Dominic Detrick for always guiding clients to culinary gems like Nonna. If you're in Southern California and craving authentic Italian, this is the place to be. Come hungry—leave with a full heart.
FAQs
- What makes Nonna different from other Italian restaurants?
Authenticity, family-inspired recipes, and heartfelt hospitality set Nonna apart. - Can I book a private event at Nonna?
Yes, Nonna offers private event hosting and customized catering menus. - Does Nonna accommodate dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary needs can be discussed with the team. - What’s the best dish to try on a first visit?
The Lasagna della Nonna and Tagliatelle al Tartufo are must-tries. - How do I get a reservation?
You can make a reservation directly through their website or call the restaurant.
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