A New Chapter for a Beloved Brooklyn Institution

Ferdinando’s Focacceria, a 121-year-old Sicilian restaurant in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, is set to reopen its doors under new ownership. The iconic eatery, known for its classic dishes like panelle sandwiches and rice balls, abruptly closed last month, leaving the community heartbroken. However, fans of Ferdinando’s can rejoice: Frank Buffa, the retiring owner, has handed over the reins to Sal Lamboglia, a well-known figure in Brooklyn’s food scene. Lamboglia, who runs popular spots like Cafe Spaghetti, Swoony’s, and Sal Tang’s, has signed the lease and plans to honor the legacy of Ferdinando’s while infusing it with a modern touch.

Saying Goodbye to an Era

Ferdinando’s Focacceria has been a staple in Carroll Gardens since 1902, serving generations of locals and even attracting A-list clientele like Leonardo DiCaprio and Martin Scorsese, who famously featured the restaurant in The Departed. Buffa, who took over the restaurant in 1975 after emigrating to New York City in 1971, has been the face of Ferdinando’s for decades. He was known for his dedication, never taking a sick day in over 50 years. However, health issues and the lingering financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic forced Buffa to close the restaurant earlier this year.

The closure marked the end of an era, but Buffa always hoped to find the right person to carry on Ferdinando’s legacy. After considering several potential buyers, including a Brooklyn pizzeria owner and a Michelin-starred chef, Buffa chose Lamboglia for his vision and passion. “He’s the only guy able to do it,” Buffa said, praising Lamboglia’s modern style and commitment to preserving the restaurant’s traditions.

Passing the Torch: A Vision for the Future

Sal Lamboglia’s takeover of Ferdinando’s is a “nice fit,” according to Andrew DiMaria, a Manhattan resident whose family has ties to the neighborhood. Lamboglia, who operates multiple successful restaurants in close proximity, has expressed his excitement about taking on the challenge. “To me, it’s an honor to be handed the keys to a Brooklyn institution like Ferdinando’s,” he said in a statement. Lamboglia plans to maintain the restaurant’s iconic name while introducing new elements, such as a signature drink, to attract a younger crowd.

Buffa has even offered to share his famous recipes with Lamboglia, ensuring that beloved dishes like the panelle sandwich remain on the menu. However, Lamboglia’s vision for Ferdinando’s extends beyond the food. The new owner plans to upgrade the kitchen and restore the backyard garden, creating a fresh yet familiar atmosphere. When the restaurant reopens in a few months, longtime fans can expect to see many of the same touches they’ve come to love, including the decades-old photos on the walls.

The Legacy Lives On

Frank Buffa’s decision to pass the torch to Sal Lamboglia has been met with widespread approval from the Carroll Gardens community. “Ferdinando’s is beloved by everybody in Brooklyn,” DiMaria said, recalling the countless times he saw Buffa greeting customers through the window. The restaurant’s closure in February was met with sadness, but Buffa’s commitment to finding the right successor has reassured locals that Ferdinando’s spirit will endure.

Buffa himself is confident that Lamboglia will bring a new energy to the restaurant while respecting its heritage. “I think he’s able to continue Ferdinando’s with a new style,” Buffa said, noting that Lamboglia’s modern approach will appeal to a younger generation without alienating longtime patrons. The transition marks a bittersweet moment for Buffa, who has dedicated his life to preserving Sicilian traditions in Brooklyn. Yet, he believes it’s time for someone else to take the reins and write the next chapter of Ferdinando’s story.

A Community’s Heartbeat Continues

Ferdinando’s Focacceria is more than just a restaurant; it’s a piece of Brooklyn’s history and a gathering place for the community. From its iconic panelle sandwiches to its cozy, old-world charm, the eatery has been a constant in Carroll Gardens for over a century. Now, as it prepares to reopen under new ownership, locals can look forward to seeing how Sal Lamboglia balances tradition and innovation.

While change can be difficult, especially for a place as deeply rooted as Ferdinando’s, the community is optimistic about the future. Lamboglia’s track record of success with his other restaurants suggests that he’s the right person to lead this evolution. As Buffa steps back and allows a new generation to take over, one thing is clear: Ferdinando’s will continue to be a vibrant part of Brooklyn’s culinary landscape, serving up delicious food and warm memories for years to come.