Brought to life by Sicilian Chef Ismaele Romano, Via Focaccia brings scratch-made focaccia sandwiches inspired by Chef’s childhood mealtime memories
Get a taste of traditional Italian at Via Focaccia, a new Artisan sandwich shop at Ellis Island Hotel, Casino & Brewery, boasting delicious homemade Sicilian favorites. Opening October 20 on the casino floor at Ellis Island, this modern, fast-casual fare is perfect for guests looking for a quick and tasty bite.
From the mind of Sicilian Chef Ismaele Romano, previously of Good Pie in the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District and Contento Pizzeria at Jerry’s Nugget, Eataly at Park MGM, and recent World Sandwich Champion of the 2021 International Pizza Expo, the Via Focaccia menu focuses on fresh, Italian ingredients and traditional preparations, with many of the dishes inspired by Sunday meals with Chef’s family in Italy as a young boy. “These dishes are a taste of my memories,” Chef Ismaele said. All sandwiches will be served on fresh focaccia made daily at Ellis Island.
With a little something for everyone, the Via Focaccia menu offers small bites like the Arancini Siciliani and Patata alla Romana with crispy fingerling potatoes tossed with rosemary, garlic and parmesan; salads including a Mixed Greenand Chef’s Antipasto; and the star of the show, signature artisan sandwiches including the San Giovanni with soppressata, spicy cheese, arugula and sweet pepper spread; the Parma with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, arugula, shaved parm and balsamic dressing; the Genovese with fresh mozzarella, roasted eggplant, roasted tomato, basil pesto aioli and arugula; and the Americano with in-house slow roasted turkey, Vermont cheddar, Front Yard bacon, avocado and garlic aoli. A perfectly paired beverage program, featuring house made canned cocktails, like the Via Spritz and Via Limoncello Spritz, completes the experience, while also making everything from bites to beverages easy to enjoy in-room, around the casino floor, or simply to go. Additional beverages will include Ellis Island Draft Beer selections and cold brews.
In addition to the Chef Ismaele’s creations, Ellis Island has partnered with Carl’s Donuts for unique flavors – with some Italian flare – from one of the city’s most beloved donut shops. Donut flavors include Tiramisu, Lemon Curd, Nutella and seasonal flavors, all of which will be available in addition to savory pastries and treats.
“We are thrilled to launch Via Focaccia at Ellis Island,” said General Manager Christina Ellis. “Working with such talented new partners, like Chef Ismaele and Carl’s Donuts, to bring this eatery to life has been an incredible experience. We can’t wait to bring a taste of Italy to Las Vegas this month.”
Via Focaccia will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. with breakfast served from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
About Ellis Island Casino & Brewery
Ellis Island Hotel, Casino & Brewery is home to some of Las Vegas’ most recognized food, beverages and entertainment. Its commitment to quality and service has been a tradition for over 50 years. The hotel and brewery features wonderful amenities, including a 24-hour restaurant with a famed steak special, Las Vegas’ top-voted microbrewery, barbecue restaurant and karaoke lounge, Metro Pizza, and the newly opened indoor-outdoor beer garden The Front Yard.