Astoria, Queens, will honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Giuseppa Vendome with a street renaming ceremony celebrating her decades of selfless service, particularly in the aftermath of the attacks on September 11, 2001. In recognition of her enduring impact, on June 14 at 1:15 PM, the corner of 24th Avenue and 26th Street will be officially designated "Giuseppa Vendome Way."

Born on August 17, 1923, Giuseppa was a cherished Italian-American family matriarch, restaurateur, humanitarian, and longtime Astoria resident who passed away last year at the age of 100. Alongside her husband Rocco and son Antonio "Nino" Vendome, Giuseppa transformed Nino's Restaurant on Canal Street into a round-the-clock relief center for first responders and recovery workers.

For nine months, the restaurant served an estimated one million free meals to firefighters, police officers, National Guard members, and volunteers, offering not just nourishment, but also comfort, care, and community.

Her warmth, generosity, humor, and famous meatballs earned Giuseppa the nickname "Mama" among those she served, Her tireless dedication during one of New York's darkest times came to symbolize the city's unbreakable spirit and compassion. She received national news attention and a place on the 9/11 Memorial & Museum website.1

Though she made her home in Astoria, Giuseppa's impact was felt citywide. Her son, Antonio, has carried on her philanthropic legacy and was recognized as "Man of the Year" by the Federation of Italian American Organizations of Queens in April 2025.

The street renaming ceremony will serve as a lasting reminder of Giuseppa "Mama" Vendome's love for her community and her embodiment of unity, generosity, and resilience. The Vendome family extends its gratitude to Community Board 1, the office of Councilmember Tiffany Caban, and neighbors who signed the renaming petition.

Event Details: Date: June 14, 2025 Time: 1:15 PM Location: 24th Avenue and 26th Street Renaming: "Giuseppa Vendome Way"