In 1984, Chef and Restaurateur Chris Christini opened his namesake restaurant; Christini’s Ristorante Italiano in Orlando, Florida. It is highly regarded as one of the best Italian cuisines in Orlando. Chef Christini ran the restaurant and it’s until turning the kitchen over to Executive Chef Jason Gonsalves in 2019. Mr. Christini can still be found greeting guests in his restaurant at the age of 80 as it is truly his life’s passion. Mr. Christini has been quoted saying the following on his website; “I am convinced that success comes down to this. One restaurant, in one location, serving the highest quality cuisine, the best service and a friendly atmosphere in which to enjoy it”. This is something that Christini’s has done exceptionally well for decades.
Christini’s focuses on classic Northern Italian cuisine and uses only the freshest ingredients in its dishes. One reason that Christini’s has so many returning guests is that the recipes and interpretations of the dishes served remain the same as when the restaurant first opened its doors. The goal is that the same dish ordered when Christini’s was first opened should taste the same today. Christini’s offers a vast traditional menu complete with appetizers, soups, salads, pasta, chicken, beef, seafood, and vegetable main dishes, and desserts to satisfy the sweet tooth of each guest. With a menu this expansive you are sure to find something that appeals to you at Christini’s.
No matter how you choose to indulge in a Christini’s meal you are sure to enjoy items such as a traditional Gnocchi Bolognese appetizer rich in authentic flavor. Veal with white wine, lemon, and capers is cooked to perfection, and of course, you will want to finish with an authentic Ricotta Cheesecake that will leave you coming back for more. It is no secret why Christini’s has and continues to be so popular and well respected in the Orlando area.
When forced to temporarily close due to stay-at-home orders, Christini’s quickly pivoted to a takeout option from the regularly served menu and a fixed price family four-course menu. This became quite popular amongst locals. Once safe to reopen, Christini’s offered outdoor seating until they could open for indoor dining at 100% capacity. They continue to offer all their takeout and family meal options.
Website: www.christinis.com
Phone: 407-545-6867
Tony Lagana
Chef Tony is a 42-year veteran of the food industry and is often known by his peers as “The New Product Guru.” Throughout his illustrious culinary career, he’s earned several notable titles and positions including Acquisition International’s “Most Influential Product Development Expert, U.S.” in 2019.
In 1997, Tony also founded Culinary Systems Inc., a group of culinary consultants that assist with culinary training, restaurant start-ups, concept development, and more. Since then, Tony and his team have generated over two billion dollars in sales for their clients in restaurants, retail, and manufacturing.
The strategic, technical, and culinary skills of Tony and his team can be seen on the menus of national chains, in the portfolio of national food manufacturers, and on the grocery shelves of products produced by major retail companies.