Staten Island's Da Damaso Blends Authentic Italian Cuisine and Language Lessons

Family-run restaurant offers unique cultural experience with language classes and homestyle Italian fare.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:11pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A high-contrast silkscreen print featuring a repeating grid of a single Italian food item, such as a pizza slice or pasta dish, rendered in a neon color palette with heavy black outlines, creating a modern pop art interpretation of traditional Italian cuisine.Da Damaso's vibrant menu of authentic Italian dishes takes center stage in this bold, pop art-inspired illustration.Staten Island Today

In the heart of Staten Island, brothers Amirani "Ami" Jgamadze and Gigi have opened a small Italian restaurant called Da Damaso that is making waves with its unique offering of delicious homestyle Italian cuisine and Italian language lessons. The restaurant, which opened last summer, has become a beloved local spot known for its authentic Salerno-style menu and warm hospitality.

Why it matters

Da Damaso's commitment to community and cultural exchange sets it apart. By offering Italian language classes alongside its authentic Italian dining experience, the restaurant is fostering connections and providing a unique opportunity for customers to immerse themselves in the Italian culture.

The details

The menu at Da Damaso boasts classic Italian dishes like eggplant parmigiana, spaghetti with fried zucchini, and the Bostoniano chicken dish, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. However, the true magic of the restaurant lies in its Italian language classes, which will be held on Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. starting March 31. The two-hour sessions include an hour of language instruction followed by a two-course meal, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for customers to connect with the restaurant's Italian roots.

  • Da Damaso opened its doors last summer.
  • The restaurant will begin hosting Italian language classes on Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. starting March 31, 2026.

The players

Amirani "Ami" Jgamadze

One of the brothers who co-owns and operates Da Damaso, a family-run Italian restaurant in Staten Island.

Gigi

The other brother who co-owns and operates Da Damaso, a family-run Italian restaurant in Staten Island.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Anybody that comes through this door becomes a part of family.”

— Ami

The takeaway

Da Damaso's unique blend of authentic Italian cuisine and language lessons creates a warm and welcoming community hub where customers can immerse themselves in the rich culture and hospitality of the Jgamadze brothers' hometown of Salerno, Italy. This family-run restaurant is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the enduring appeal of homestyle Italian comfort food.