It was their passion for bike racing in Europe that brought them together and created a bond of friendship reminiscent of brothers. Both from Italy, David Arato and Sandro Lattenero left their home country 15 years ago and went their separate ways, David landing in Seattle and Sandro finding his place in Thailand. They have now reunited to create a restaurant, although they prefer to call it a social gathering place, in Coronado called Nado Republic, in the home of the previous
Fish Company at 1007 C Avenue. “We want people to feel that this is their living room outside the house where they can enjoy interesting food and conversation,” says Sandro.
“It’s going to be all about the experience,” they chime in. The focus is on aperitivo style where people pop in to connect with each other in a comfortable setting. The authentic Italian-themed menu will feature “Pizza in pala” where they will pre-cook the dough in the oven until it is the perfect degree of crustiness, then take it out and put the freshest ingredients on it, and slip it back in the oven until the cheese melts and it has an amazing “croquant” texture.
The menu will change seasonally, but expect classic Italian favorites like caprese, exquisitely presented like a flower, fried calamari, bruschetta and more, all served in a colorful way. Charcuterie boards, featuring Italian cheeses and cured meats, will be ideal to share with friends. Another highlight will be “paninoteca,” traditional Italian paninis. They plan to feature mostly Italian and California wines, with a few favorite Argentinian wines in the mix. Beers will also be Italian and local choices. New, innovative beverage options will include Prosecco based drinks and sorbetti wine frappes. Highlights include wine pairings, and they plan on trying lots of new offerings because they feel the flavor profiles are endless. They will offer themed gatherings like Moms’ Nights. “We want our guests to be like family and have an experience with us,” says David.
David founded his first gelato shop in Seattle after he arrived there. Three years later, while looking to expand his business to a place he preferred living with less rain, he discovered Coronado and opened Nado Gelato 12 years ago. He now has two additional locations, one in Encinitas and one at University Towne Center under the Bottega Italiana umbrella. Sandro was involved in a variety of businesses in Thailand and China including hotels, shopping centers, restaurants, and special events with celebrities. When David asked him to be part of this project, it was the perfect time for them to collaborate. “I am in love with the people and the weather here, and I am looking forward to meeting everyone and integrating into the community,” says Sandro.
David feels a strong connection with the Coronado community and wants to provide an experience that is new. He wants to bring a fun, quality experience to the island where people step through the door and immediately feel comfortable, while enjoying some authentic food and drinks.
Nado Republic will be open from noon until 11 p.m. on weekdays and until midnight on weekends, but will vary as they see what the local community wants. Hoping to open at the end of the month, they are just finishing updating the kitchen and décor, while waiting for final health inspection approval. Sandro and David are looking forward to welcoming locals into Nado Republic soon at 1007 C Avenue.
They both agree that theirs is one of the rare friendships you find in life and are looking forward to this new venture together creating a slice of Italy here for the people of Coronado to enjoy. Buon Appetito!
Nado Republic, 1007 C Avenue • Facebook
