Fulgi behind Sullaluna

Fulgi’s mother has a love for illustrated books, while his father is passionate about wine. Enter Sullaluna: a charming bookstore and wine bar bistro that perfectly blends both passions.

A few years ago, Fulgi’s mother opened the original Sullaluna in Venice. Now, Fulgi has brought the concept to New York City, launching a location in the West Village after graduating from college last year. Before stepping into the restaurant world, Fulgi was managing and teaching at a sailing school back home in Ventotene, a small island in southern Italy. Talk about cool people doing cool things.

At first, Fulgi was quite skeptical about the concept of merging illustration books and wine. In fact he remembers thinking it was “something strange.” But then he grew into it as he grew up and started reading the books and tasting the wines. “I think that the combination is very unique. Because illustration books are usually for children, and they have a lot of emotions. They have a lot to say. And a lot of growing up to do” he adds.

The beautiful space hosts events, from book presentations to watercolor & wine nights, and live jazz performances. Especially unique are the mixology nights, where a book is paired with a custom cocktail—or sometimes even two, reflecting the different emotions the story evokes. We're excited about the creative lineup of events going into the new year!

Reflecting on the past few months, the hardest part for Fulgi was arriving from Italy not knowing anyone and looking for a retail space in the city. But Fulgi mentions, “we met a lawyer who helped us, helped us a lot. And now he's a friend.” He is extremely grateful for the support he’s received from the community.

Fulgi and his father took on the entire renovation themselves, including the beautifully crafted bookshelves. It was a significant effort to prepare the space and secure the necessary permits and licenses. Now he reflects that the most rewarding part is “seeing people liking and enjoying the place. Coupled with working with very good staff, people around my age, I think it's a good work environment."

Bites to Savour

What is your favorite book?

“From a long time ago, my favorite illustration book is The Giving Tree. I’ve always had something special with the book. I think the story can teach you a lot. I also remember my mother reading me the story, and I think it changed me. I can see myself in the book. Sometimes.”

What is your earliest memory of dining out?

“My earliest memory of dining out is in Ventotene at a very little restaurant called Lino, serving pasta, fish, and wine. My parents used to bring me there for very special occasions, like once a year. And I still think they have the best food in the world.”

If you could only have one item on your menu what would it be?

“My favorite item, actually it's not on the menu right now because it's seasonal, but will be on the menu again in May—the parmigiana. But I can tell you that right now we have a very good cacio e pepe. I love it with chimichurri. But it's personal taste. I think with cacio e pepe you can’t go wrong.”

What is the best thing that has happened since you opened?

“The best thing since opening was the New York Times article that was written about us like two weeks ago. It was very rewarding, waking up to people sending us the article. It was a good day.”

What are your favorite restaurants in NYC?

 “I have two favorite restaurants. The first is Maison Premiere in Williamsburg. I enjoy the unique atmosphere—how the waiters and bartenders dress, how they move. It's so professional. I'm in love with that.

Also, Palma is around the corner from here. I think Palma is one of the best Italian restaurants in the city. It's very authentic. The atmosphere is unique. I'm in love with the atmosphere and aesthetic.”

What are your favorite creative spaces in NYC?

“Sometimes I go to Rizzoli Bookstore—I think it's very good. Also Book Club Bar in East Village.”

See Fulgi & Sullaluna come to life in this video interview

Book a reservation to read & dine at Sullaluna here and make sure to check out their events like watercolor & wine!

With compliments to the chef,

Jenn

Co-Founder, Shortlist New York