Photo by Elizabeth Burghstaler ’26/The Choate News
An interior view of Favio’s Trattoria.
By Gopika Sheth ’27
Tucked away in downtown Wallingford on Center Street, Favio’s Trattoria offers a taste of Italy only minutes away from Choate. With its promise of authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality, this culinary haven has become a favorite for Wallingford’s locals and visitors alike.
Ms. Jennifer D’erico, a waitress and mixologist at Favio’s, shared her enthusiasm for the restaurant’s Italian cuisine. “Our chefs are unbelievable and the portions are beyond generous,” she said. “Our pasta dishes are incredible.” From fried zucchini “Zucca” chips to a classic lasagna, Favio’s is sure to satiate any cravings one may have. According to Ms. D’erico, the restaurant’s most popular dish is either their chicken parmesan with vodka sauce or their signature lollipop lamb chops.
Favio’s Trattoria is owned by Mr. Favio Pillacela, an Italian immigrant who now manages several successful restaurants in the area. Mr. Pillacela is admired by many of his employees for his ambition.
“He’s passionate about his work,” Ms. D’erico said. “He started off as an executive chef for years, and now he’s got four restaurants. That’s really impressive.”
Local patrons Mr. Robin Harkness and Ms. Lisa Donahue reflected on their dining experiences at Favio’s. “First time dining here … would definitely come back with our family,” Mr. Harkness said. “The pasta’s really good, and the ambience is just right,” Ms. Donahue added.
Diners can rest easy knowing that Favio’s Trattoria deeply values their relationships with their customers. “Our customers are great. We have so many regulars already, and they become friends,” Ms. D’erico said.
Even diners with specific dietary requirements, like Kadija Benzinane ’27, are able to find something to appreciate at Favio’s. “I had gluten-free pasta, and it was really nice of them to have that option for me,” Benzinane said. “The service was great.”
Favio’s Trattoria has quickly found its place within the local community, and are in turn happy to see other restaurants in the area thrive. “With other new restaurants opening up in town, we embrace it … It brings more people into our town, more business,” Ms. D’erico said.
Despite the restaurant’s relatively recent opening in October 2023, Favio’s Trattoria has enjoyed remarkable success. While lunches typically attract smaller crowds and a more intimate atmosphere, Friday and Saturday evenings see a surge in customers. As a result, it is best to plan ahead. Favio’s Trattoria recommends securing a reservation during these peak times to ensure that diners can get a spot at the Italian eatery and fully enjoy their dining experience.
