Arizona diners now have a new destination for authentic Italian cuisine as Pizzicata opens its highly anticipated location at The Citadel in Glendale. This debut marks the most ambitious chapter yet for the family-owned Italian dining group, combining culinary craft, design, and a refined vision of hospitality.
Founded by Umbria natives Federico Venturini and Viola Tagliaferri, Pizzicata opened in 2018. Their Glendale location marks a pivotal moment in the brand’s evolution, introducing diners to an experience that merges the couple’s Italian roots with their years of refinement in the Arizona dining scene.
“Glendale felt like home from the moment we arrived,” Federico said. “The Citadel has the visibility, the energy, and the beauty that allow us to build something truly special. We knew this was the right place to bring the next evolution of Pizzicata.”
The Citadel is a European-inspired center known for its warm energy and strong neighborhood presence. Inside, hand-painted murals and an open kitchen transform the dining room into a living expression of Italian artistry, letting guests see and connect with the craft behind each dish.
The menu anchors itself in signature Roman pinsa, Neapolitan pizza, and fresh-made pasta, accompanied by daily house-crafted sauces, fresh seafood specialties, and traditional meat entrées. A polished cocktail and wine program, along with an expanded dessert menu, ensures that every meal ends on a celebratory note.
The Private Kitchen Bistro and Private Chef Experience provide intimate, chef-led tasting experiences, complete with interactive demonstrations and premium seasonal ingredients.
Pizzicata’s beloved Feast of the Seven Fishes Christmas Dinner brings the centuries-old Italian tradition of La Vigilia to Arizona, offering a festive, seafood-driven menu that has become a local holiday favorite.
“This restaurant brings together everything we’ve learned since opening our first U.S. location,” Venturini said. “Our goal is simple: we want guests to feel at ease and enjoy a genuine taste of Italy. Every detail, from the murals to the menu, reflects that journey.”
Since arriving in Arizona, Federico and Viola have grown their portfolio to include Pizzicata Carefree, Pizzicata Mesa, Pomodoro Italian Grill & Seafood, and Pizzicata Glendale. Their appearance and win on Little Big Italy crowned them Arizona’s top spot for authentic Italian cuisine, further cementing their reputation.
“Many of our team members have grown with us from the beginning. Their passion and belief in our vision made this chapter possible,” Venturini said. “Pizzicata is a celebration of family, culture, and the dream that brought us from Umbria to Arizona. For more information, visit pizzicatausa.com.
