Self-described “gelato maestro” Gino Cammarata has closed his Bensonhurst ice cream shop Oro Verde Gelati — which was located within a tanning salon, oddly enough — to open a small plates restaurant and “vino bar” boasting a full menu of classical Mediterranean dishes on Fourth Avenue at 99th Street.
The new eatery, Piattini, will offer classic Sicilian entrees alongside less-known Italian dishes prepared by Cammarata, who is famous for masterfully making traditional gelato flavors like fig, ricotta cream, and pistachio, and serving them boldly — like his acclaimed brioche gelato sandwich.
“It’s a light menu with a very fresh ingredients,” said Cammarata.
“The food quality is going to be high.”
Thankfully, Cammarata won’t abandon his bread and butter — gelato.
“There will be a gelato machine,” the chef promised. “That’s my signature.”
Piattini [9824 Fourth Avenue at 99th Street in Bay Ridge, (718) 759-0009)], will have a soft opening this week.