Named for family and built for the neighborhood, Bistro Amerigo is our way of honoring Amerigo Marcone, father of chef-owner Stephen Marcone. Open since 2010 on Monkland in NDG’s Monkland Village, we’ve always believed that a great Italian meal feels like coming home—simple dishes made with care, warm hospitality, and a glass of something good to bring it all together. We’re a walk-in only bistro (no reservations), because we want the room to feel easy, lively, and always welcoming.

We began with a small kitchen, a handful of family recipes, and a promise to do a few things exceptionally well. Word spread about the hand-rolled meatballs, the crisp fried calamari, and the fresh pastas that taste like they’ve been loved all afternoon. Inside, the dining room is intimate and buzzing; when the terrace opens, the neighborhood energy doubles. At the bar, we keep it classic—Italian cocktails (yes, the negroni) and a focused wine list with a strong Italian backbone—chosen to pair beautifully with the food.

“What does it mean to truly eat Italian? It’s about more than just a meal—it’s about moments,” says Chef Stephen. “Sitting around the table with family and friends, sharing stories, flavors, and laughter, turns dinner into a lasting memory. After 25 years in the kitchen, I’ve learned a few truths: anyone can make food, but not everyone can cook. Real chefs don’t just make food to sell; they share their artistry and life’s experience—one plate at a time.” That spirit guides our kitchen every day.

Stephen’s path began more than twenty-five years ago. After cooking school, he worked his way through kitchens and eventually to Italy, where he found not just technique but humility, craft, and passion. Those experiences shaped who he is as a chef—and why the name on our door matters so much. Amerigo isn’t just a dedication; it’s a daily reminder to cook with heart and to treat every guest like family.

Today, Amerigo remains true to its roots: a cozy Italian bistro on Monkland where you can sit down, exhale, and eat well. The menu evolves with the seasons, but our compass never changes—keep flavors honest, ingredients quality-first, and hospitality front and center. That’s the Amerigo way.