The word that comes to mind on entering the newly remodeled and re-opened Finalmente Trattoria is “authentic.” The menu — labeled a “shortcut to Italy” on the restaurant’s website — features Italian specialties such as the Antipasti Polpettini (veal meatballs in ricotta mousse with fresh basil), fresh pasta dishes including Orecchiette Vesuviane, and Griglia Del Giorno, listed on the menu as “tonight’s butcher selection.”

But what is perhaps the most authentic about the trattoria is owner Giuseppe Cinque, who came to the U.S. in his 20s and since then has had a career working in — and owning — Italian restaurants.