Philadelphia offers more than its fair share of Italian restaurants that run the gamut from cliché to half decent to lauded and authentic. Le Virtu has praised as the latter and boasts being one of only a handful of Italian restaurants in the country dedicated to the region of Italy known as Abruzzi. The area, about three hours east of Rome, is rich in history, food, tradition and for my family in particular, home.The thing about Abruzzi is that while the land is rich, those who work it generally aren't. Luckily the Abruzzese (people of Abruzzi) know how to make the most of what's afforded. In the dead of winter, hearty soups, meats and breads can make every meal a feast.
At Le Virtu this Thursday, January 19, from 5pm - 8pm, owners Francis Cratil-Cretarola, Catherine Lee and Chef Joe Cicala will host La Cottora, a traditional Abruzzese winter festival.
The menu includes Sagne e Fasciul’, the Chef's variation of Abruzzi's pasta fagiole served with panini made with porchetta. There will be house-made hot mulled wine, apple cider with spiced rum and warm Abruzzese punch. There will also be biscotti, pizzelle cookies and roasted chestnuts.
The entire event will be held in La Virtu's outdoor space around several wood burning fires. And the best part? No, not the mulled wine. All the proceeds go to Project H.O.M.E., a non-profit aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness in Philadelphia.
Le Virtu 1927 E. Passyunnk Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19148
