Ben and Cynthia Lo Manto and their oldest son Michael are the proud owners of VESPA Italian Kitchen & Bar, an exciting new Italian restaurant in the heart of Farmingdale Village. Ben had a vision that evolved into this quaint, rustic, warm old Brooklyn trend feel, achieved by exposed brick wall, Edison light bulbs, Carrara marble bar top, reclaimed table and chairs. The damask fabric upholstery described by Ben is reminiscent of his grandmother’s couch (minus the plastic covers). Little grandma curtains separate the bar area from the dining room, there are three large round tables, two communal high top tables set in front of an open window setting, bringing the outside in for an Al Fresco dining feel. 

Ben was born in Castellammare Del Golfo, Sicily. He loves his mothers cooking (who doesn’t). A few of his dishes are inspired by her cuisine. Ben’s personal favorites are his mama’s Meatballs, Veal Spedini and the Pulpo with the spicy sausage and cannellini beans. His “go to” dish is Pasta Con Le Sarde with roasted cauliflower. Here at VESPA they have a variety of wood fired pizza and house baked bread including their own olive bread.

Their signature premium cocktails are made with BIVI vodka, which is distilled in Sicily. Ben’s favorite is the Sicilian Mule prepared with BIVI vodka, limoncello, ginger beer and fresh lime. On the bar you will find two spouted decanters one with pineapple, the other with Caselvetrano green olives, both infused with  Sicilian BIVI vodka.  The wine list has many choices coming from Italy and California. 

When asked the question of her husband, Cynthia said, "He has spent many years developing each and every aspect of what has become VESPA." "  I could not be more proud of my husband and our new restaurant."

Ben and Cynthia are gracious hosts and their motto is “my home is your home” … You can even charge your cell phone using the many charging stations at the bar.