The Story of Tony Mandina’s

The Mandina family traces its roots back to Salaparuta, Sicily, where their ancestors lived before immigrating to the United States in the early 1900s. Though an earthquake in 1968 forced the town to rebuild a mile away, the Mandinas still have relatives in “New Salaparuta” and continue to honor their heritage through the food they’ve shared for generations.

In 1982, while still working full-time in the furniture industry, Tony Mandina transformed an old home in Gretna, Louisiana into what would become one of the area’s most beloved Italian restaurants. What began with just fourteen tables quickly grew to seat 180 guests, including space for special events. For 42 years, Tony Mandina’s served up traditional Sicilian dishes made from scratch—including soups, lasagna, pasta, and Tony’s famous “Red Gravy.”

The restaurant was truly a family affair. Tony baked the bread, Grace led the kitchen, and their daughters—Kim, Kolette, and Keri—worked their way up from bussing tables to managing operations. Lindsey, Kolette’s daughter and Tony and Grace’s granddaughter, was literally raised in the restaurant and later helped lead it with her mother until its closing.

Though the restaurant doors have closed, the Mandina family’s legacy lives on. You can still enjoy their authentic flavors through the Tony Mandina’s Kitchen Cookbook and Tony’s signature Red Gravy, available in grocery stores and online.

From our family to yours—mangia, relax, and fuggedaboutit!