Graspa Group, the award-winning hospitality firm renowned for its iconic Italian-accented restaurants across Florida, is set to unveil Casalina, a new casual-chic Italian concept in Delray Beach, on Oct. 25. This opening marks Graspa Group’s expansion into Palm Beach County, promising to bring its signature blend of Italian tradition and modern flair inspired by American influences.
Located at 16950 Jog Road, the expansive 6,000-square-foot venue transports diners straight to the Mediterranean coast of Italy. The dining room is adorned with lush greenery draping from the ceiling, crisp white tablecloths, and plush banquette seating for up to 74 guests. Overlooking the dining room, the intimate 20-seat bar serves as a central gathering spot, offering guests a sophisticated yet relaxed setting for casual gatherings. Every Wednesday from 6-9 p.m., the bar comes alive with Piano Bar Night, featuring live music to complement the inviting atmosphere. Casalina’s Italian influence extends to the stunning 2,000-square-foot outdoor patio, anchored by a large lemon tree, evoking the feeling of alfresco dining in Capri. With seating for 140 guests, the fully covered patio offers a year-round dining experience, rain or shine.
“We couldn’t be more excited to bring Casalina to the heart of Delray Beach,” said Angelo Masarin, chef and co-owner of Casalina. “After years of developing the Miami market, we wanted to find the perfect spot in Palm Beach County that would welcome our Italian roots in a way that felt natural to the existing community. Casalina brings together the best of Italian tradition and flavors and a touch of American accents, with the goal of making every guest feel at home.”
Casalina’s menu features an assortment of homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, risottos, fresh fish and prime meats. Under Masarin and Chef Mattia Teagano, each dish is crafted with fresh ingredients sourced from local farms and select producers in Italy. Weekly rotating specials are available through the “That’s Amore” menu, ensuring fresh, seasonal offerings
The menu opens with flavorful starters like the Spanish Octopus Carpaccio, topped with fennel, red oranges, cumin seeds, and drizzled citronette; Vongole Oreganata, made with oreganata bread crumbs, lemon sauce and parsley; and Smoked Duck Breast, sliced with Parmesan cheese nest, arugula and a berry reduction. Guests can watch from their seats as chefs skillfully prepare wood-fired pizzas, with must-try options like the Eggplant and Bufala, topped with diced eggplant, tomato sauce, oregano, basil and buffalo mozzarella; Silvia, topped with Prosciutto di Parma, grape tomatoes, and shaved parmesan cheese; and the Wild Mushrooms, topped with mixed mushrooms, tomato and mozzarella, among others.
The love letter to Italian cuisine continues with the restaurant’s array of house-made pastas and “Risotteria” (risotto) options. Pasta enthusiasts can savor dishes like Pappardelle Lamb Ragu, a rich lamb dish cooked in tomato sauce, red wine and fresh herbs. The craveable selection of creamy risottos includes standout options like the Risotto Milanese Revisit featuring baby shrimp, saffron and green peas. For entrées, guests can choose between fresh fish like Snapper Alla Livornese, served with a lemon sauce and capers, or prime meat like Veal Parmigiana or Milanese, lightly breaded veal topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella and served with linguini.
The restaurant also features an extensive cocktail selection alongside an impressive wine list, featuring bottles from Italian wine regions alongside popular American cabs and chardonnays. Every Monday, the restaurant features “Baci & Abbracci,” which offers 50% off on all bottles of wine. Happy hour is available every day from 4-6 p.m.
With the new opening, Casalina Italian Restaurant expects to bring an estimated 60 jobs to the area.
Photos Courtesy of Graspa Group