Meet: Pietro Quaglia
Pietro Nolita's longtime leader
Full Name, Age and Where are you from?
My name is Pietro Quaglia, I’m 45 years old and originally from Milan, Italy.
What’s the main difference between Pietro’s then and Pietro’s now?
Pietro Nolita has undergone a thoughtful evolution, both aesthetically and in spirit. In the early days, the vibe was playful—think pink, kitschy, and lighthearted. Today, we’ve matured into something more elegant... The space feels more sophisticated and sexy, yet remains warm and inviting. Our goal was to create the feeling of a true Milanese living room—stylish yet approachable—where guests can enjoy top-tier cocktails alongside simple, authentic Italian dishes made with love and intention.
Describe the new changes to Pietro’s—furniture, lighting, and overall atmosphere.
The redesign leans into a vintage Italian aesthetic with a touch of modern elegance. We’ve introduced round terrazzo tables, a stunning marble bar, a vintage-print couch, and retro lighting elements that together channel the glamour and intimacy of Milan in the ’70s and ’80s. The atmosphere is mature and sultry without feeling pretentious—ideal for a night out that’s both elevated and easygoing.
What is the must-have drink on the menu?
There are a few standouts. The blood orange margarita is always a crowd-pleaser: bright, citrusy, and refreshing. The espresso martini is another classic that never fails. But my go-to is the jalapeño cucumber margarita—fresh and spicy.
Which musical artist are you loving right now, and who would be your dream DJ at Pietro’s?
I’m constantly inspired by my dear friend Isabella Massanet. She has an incredible ear for music and a unique ability to blend old-school gems with contemporary beats. She brings an unmistakable energy to any space she curates.
What’s your favorite restaurant in New York, and what are you ordering?
After 25 years in New York, my favorite restaurant remains Indochine. It’s a classic. I’ve been religiously ordering the steamed ravioli, baby ribs, and saketinis for years. The atmosphere is unbeatable—always consistent, always delicious.
Anything exciting coming up for you?
I’m planning another trip to Japan with my wife soon. Japanese culture has truly captivated us with its deep sense of tradition paired with a forward-thinking creative spirit. We'd love to live in Tokyo for a year or so eventually.
