Our Story
Authentic Italian dining, cherished for generations.
For over five decades, The Pine has been a cornerstone of Italian dining in the Bronx, bringing families, friends, and food lovers together to enjoy authentic Italian flavors.
A Legacy of Italian Excellence
Where It All Began
For over five decades, The Pine has been a cornerstone of Italian dining in the Bronx, bringing families, friends, and food lovers together to enjoy authentic flavors crafted with passion and tradition. From humble beginnings to becoming a landmark restaurant known throughout the tri-state area, our story is one of dedication, hard work, and an unwavering love for food.
The story of The Pine begins in the mountain towns of Calabria, Italy, where Francesco Bastone spent his early years working on his family’s farm. Surrounded by the aroma of fresh herbs, vine-ripened tomatoes, and slow-cooked sauces, he developed an early appreciation for traditional Italian cooking. His mother’s recipes were simple yet deeply flavorful, rooted in time-honored techniques passed down through generations.
With a vision for a better future, Francesco and his younger brother Giovanni left their small Italian village and set their sights on America. Their dream? To open a restaurant that embodied the warmth and richness of home-cooked Italian meals, where every guest would feel like family.
From a Small Bronx Storefront to an Iconic Destination
The Rise of The Pine
In 1969, Francesco and Giovanni’s dream became a reality when they opened a small storefront restaurant in the Bronx, in a space that had once been a saloon. At the time, they couldn’t afford a new sign, so the name “The Pine” – a remnant of the building’s previous occupants – remained.
What started as a modest, family-run eatery quickly became a local favorite. Word spread about Francesco’s house-made pastas, rich ragù, and signature chicken parmesan, and soon, The Pine was drawing in guests from all over the city. From neighborhood locals to Yankees players, celebrities, and New York notables, The Pine became a place where people from all walks of life could come together to share a meal and create memories.
Standing the Test of Time
More than 50 years later, The Pine continues to thrive while staying true to its roots. Though the restaurant has grown, the commitment to quality, authenticity, and hospitality remains the same.
Timeless Italian Recipes
Many of the dishes on our menu today come straight from the Bastone family cookbook, prepared with the same care and attention as they were in Calabria decades ago.
A Modern Take on Italian Cuisine
While tradition is at the heart of what we do, we also embrace innovation, introducing bold flavors and contemporary techniques to classic Italian dishes.
A Welcoming Atmosphere
Whether you’re joining us for a casual dinner, a large family-style meal, or a special event, we strive to make every experience at The Pine warm, inviting, and unforgettable.
Bringing People Together for Generations
The Pine isn’t just about food—it’s about family, culture, and community. For over half a century, we’ve been proud to be a gathering place where milestones are celebrated, friendships are formed, and traditions are passed down.
From hosting weddings and private celebrations to catering for special occasions, we’re honored to be part of our guests’ most cherished moments. Our loyalty to our guests has been met with generations of loyal customers, and for that, we are forever grateful.
