Villa Amato
Villa Amato is the quintessential family-owned pizzeria/Italian restaurant – right here in Lake Toxaway.
And “family-owned” is the key. But for family, Villa Amato would not be here. The family business has its roots in Brooklyn when owner and chef Chris Amato’s family immigrated from Italy when he was 12 years old. There, Chris’s father owned and operated a pizzeria for many years. Chris learned and still uses the family recipes from that original Brooklyn location.
Eventually, Chris and his wife and business partner Shannon (they met in a pizzeria over 30 years ago!) owned and operated restaurants in New Jersey. They were family-run businesses. Chris and Shannon have six children ranging in age from 32 to two. When an older daughter relocated to Piedmont, South Carolina with three grandchildren in tow, the Amato’s knew it was time to sell their New Jersey restaurants and move their family, and family business, south.
Chris learned of the area and an available restaurant business for sale through Craig’s List. He came to Lake Toxaway in March 2019, met the owner of the former Sweet and Natural restaurant, and bought the business. Shannon and their children soon joined Chris and Villa Amato opened for business in May 2019. The daughter that started the migration south? She works in the business and now lives in the area. In fact, all employees at Villa Amato are family members.
When asked if they are glad to be in Lake Toxaway, Shannon Amato answers with a resounding “Yes!” The pace is slower here. The people are genuine making it easy to fit in. Their school-aged children are attending Transylvania County public schools. They are dedicated and hard-working, making a life here for their family and business.
Villa Amato serves pizzas and other casual Italian fare six days per week, all year long. In fact, while staying open full-time all winter can be challenging at times, the Amato’s believe it is essential for building their business and meeting customer demand. In the winter, they are open from 11am until 8pm. In the summer, they are open until 9pm. Villa Amato is not currently selling alcohol but customers can bring their own. This Spring they are hoping to offer local craft beer. Take out is also available.
A recent review on Facebook says it all: “This restaurant is the real deal. Consistently delicious food at an affordable price! A little gem tucked in our neck of the woods. Highly recommend.”
The restaurant is located at 15887 Rosman Highway (Highway 64) in Lake Toxaway — next door to Historic Toxaway Market, which offers a 10% discount to Villa Amato customers. The phone number is 828-885-7700.
More information about Villa Amato is available on their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/VillaAmato 🔚
