The new Netflix comedy, currently available for streaming, presents the touching real-life tale of New York’s Enoteca Maria.
-
Nonnas
, now streaming on Netflix, tells the true story of Joe Scaravella, played by Vince Vaughn, and his restaurant Enoteca Maria
-
In 2007, Scaravella launched the restaurant in Staten Island, New York, featuring “grannies” from across the globe who prepare the same family recipes they have honed over many years.
-
“It really got me thinking about my mother and her family,” actress Brenda Vaccaro shares with Efwebe.
A diner managed by grandmothers has transcended merely nourishing local residents; it has now turned into the touching backdrop for a motion picture.
Following the death of his grandmother, Domenica, and his mother, Maria, New York resident Joe Scaravella felt an intense nostalgia for their genuine Italian cuisine. This sentiment prompted him to start his own restaurant.
Enoteca Maria
In March 2007, a restaurant opened in Staten Island, New York, featuring grandmothers—or “nonnas”—from various parts of the globe who prepare the traditional family recipes they have honed over many years.
“They’re so full of love, they hug me and the customers,” Scaravella, 69,
shares with Efwebe
“I simply attempted to bring back a piece of my life that vanished. It feels therapeutic for me.”
18 years after its opening, the restaurant has become the inspiration for the new movie
Nonnas
Now available on Netflix.
Vince Vaughn
stars as Scaravella, with
Susan Sarandon
,
Lorraine Bracco
, with Brenda Vaccaro and Talia Shire playing the grandmothers. Similar to the setting of the story, the film — which was co-written by Liz Maccio and helmed by her spouse, Stephen Chbosky — centers around themes of family, affection, and naturally, mouthwatering cuisine.
Joe Mangani
Hello, the actor who portrays Scaravellara’s best friend Bruno mentions that working alongside his real-life equivalent added depth to his character. “Vince and I had the opportunity to visit the restaurant where we were attended to by the ‘nonnas’ and enjoyed dinner with the actual people named Bruno and Joe,” shares Manganiello, aged 48, with Efwebe.
For numerous cast members—including
Linda Cardellini
and
Drea de Matteo
— The experience was profoundly personal, evoking memories of her own heritage. “I am a nonna. I have three grandchildren, and they are the most rewarding aspect of my life,” Bracco, who is 70 years old, states.
Vaccaro, who is 85 years old, shares, “This experience really reminded me of my mother and her family. It became significant for me to portray an Italian woman. It turned out to be one of the most enjoyable filming experiences I’ve ever had.”
Don’t miss out on any stories—subscribe now.
Efwebe’s free daily newsletter
To remain current with the finest content Efwebe provides, ranging from celebrity updates to engaging human-interest narratives.
In both reality and the movie, the affection at Enoteca Maria is evident. “Many of these women have lost their spouses, and their kids have left home after growing up,” Scaravella explains. “These ladies are full of stories and they require a way to express themselves. That’s exactly what we offer—we create that avenue for them.”
Bracco comments on the ensemble, “We share affection for one another. We dined together. Food represents love; friendships embody love; families are bound by love. My sincere wish is for audiences to leave feeling this connection.” Manganiello adds, “The joy of creating something filled with genuine emotion excites me. This project celebrates our shared experiences through cuisine.”
Nonnas
It is now available on Netflix.
Read the initial article on
Efwebe