Joe's Bio

I started working at my Father's restaurant (Robert Tambellini's, 947 Liberty Avenue) and my uncle Joe in 1979. My father retired and closed his restaurant in 1991. Then I worked at Louis Tambellini's on Saw Mill Run Boulevard for the next year. After a short time doing private catering for Meyer Darragh and Buchanan Ingersoll, I worked with Joe Carmassi at Carmassi's Tuscany Grill on Penn Avenue in the Theater District.

From there I teamed up with Pete Lauterbauch at Bravo Franco Restaurant in the Roosevelt building on Penn Avenue. After learning the "Franco" style of Italian cuisine, I opened Franco's Trattoria with my cousin Joe D'Amico (son of Franco D'Amico) on West Liberty Avenue in Dormont. There I found enjoyment interacting with customers, and I still enjoy surprising patrons with a sample of meatballs.

In 2007, my wife Melissa and I had an agreement with Michael and Candice Uricchio for the sale of their current location. August 16th, 2007, Melissa and I opened Joseph Tambellini Restaurant on Bryant Street.

Today, I still enjoy the opportunity of interacting with my customers as well as having the privilege to cook for you. I'm blessed every day that I'm able to work alongside my wife Melissa and prepare my cuisine for our patrons.