Owner Scott Lavelle was born and raised in Danbury and began working in his grandparents’ restaurant at an early age, prepping food, making pizzas and working as a server Longtime area residents will undoubtedly remember Lavelle’s Wagon Wheel, run by Vincent (“Jimmy”) Lavelle for 35 years. Scott’s love for the restaurant business was nurtured during these early years and he hoped at some point he would have the opportunity to open another restaurant to serve the Brookfield area.
Scott’s business partner Manuel (“Manny”) Minino is originally from Galicia, Spain and came to the United States in 1971 to make a better life for himself. Manny has spent 30 years in the hospitality industry and currently owns a boutique hotel in the waterfront tourist destination of Baiona, Spain.
Together, Scott and Manny had a vision for a fine Italian restaurant in Brookfield, specializing in Northern Italian cuisine, craft cocktails and most importantly, a warm and welcoming atmosphere with exceptional service.
Del Primo opened its doors on March 20, 2020, within days of the Governor announcing that Connecticut restaurants would be closed for indoor dining due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Talk about unfortunate timing! Despite being advised not to open, the owners made the difficult decision to open for take-out orders only, and pray for the best. The support of friends and family in those initial months was unwavering, not only the staff but also as customers. Over time, word started getting around and within a few months our outdoor covered patio was jamming with guests who were going stir crazy at home during the peak of the pandemic.
Once the ban was lifted and indoor dining resumed, we soon learned that our private dining room was not big enough to suit the demand for private event space. In November of 2021 we acquired 1,600 square feet of additional space, creating the Festa Brava (“Good Party”) private room that holds up to 100 guests. We have since had the pleasure of hosting numerous rehearsal and anniversary dinners, corporate functions, birthday and holiday parties, baptism celebrations, bridal and baby showers, sports banquets, bereavement luncheons and weddings.
Like so many other restaurants, we have survived multiple COVID-19 surges, staff shortages, hurricanes, power outages and skyrocketing food and labor costs. We are beyond grateful for the local community that has been so supportive and carried us through those trying times. And, while the restaurant industry continues to face many challenges, the Del Primo family remains committed to delivering an exceptional dining and event experience to each and every one of its customers. We hope to see you soon!
12:00 pm to 9:00 pm
12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
WEBSITE DESIGN BY MACK MEDIA.
NOW TAKING RESERVATIONS FOR NEW YEARS EVE.
Please select Pickup or Delivery below and complete the form:
Sign up and be the first to receive updates on Special Events, New Menu items and other Primo Perks