About Arlecchino Ristorante

I can’t pinpoint the exact moment I fell in love with the restaurant business, but it has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent countless hours in the vibrant atmosphere of restaurants. At just three years old, I was perched at the end of the bar at the BBC restaurant, captivated by the staff as they expertly juggled the demands of guests while enjoying their work. By five, I found myself in Bruno Tambellini’s “daycare” in his office at Tambellini’s Bridgeville, surrounded by friends while our parents worked downstairs.

At fifteen, I took on the role of coat check at a downtown restaurant managed by my mom. After high school, my family opened Piccolina’s in the South Hills, where I truly discovered the joy of hospitality, guided by my mother’s invaluable mentorship. After several rewarding years there, I ventured out on my own, accepting a management position at Sonoma Grille, conveniently located just down the street from the BBC on Penn Avenue. Under the guidance of Yves Carreau, I was able to refine the skills I had learned from my mother while hosting celebrities, sports teams, and even the G20 summit.

Following the birth of my daughter, I returned to our family restaurant until its closure in 2018. In 2019, I joined Arlecchino as a server, and after the renovation, I embraced the role of general manager. I’m grateful for the incredible team I work with every day. When I’m not at Arlecchino, you can find me cheering on my favorite athletes—my daughter Myla and my son Cooper—from the stands.

Chef Cory has been with the Alla Famiglia brand for over 17 years. When Chef Jonathan and Chef Mark needed another set of hands at alla famiglia, they hired Chef Cory from the Art Institute culinary program, located in downtown Pittsburgh. He actually had a couple of the very same instructors Chef Jonathan had. Cory exhibits raw cooking talent, with solid technique and precision. Chef cory was moved from Alla Famiglia to executive Chef Arlecchino in 2012. He is also assisted by Lacey Jones his wife, whom is also a product of Cory’s vast culinary knowledge. We appreciate for over a decade now, chef Cory’s passion and consistency behind the line and with our loyal clientele.

I’m a proud native of Peter’s Township, where I was born and raised. After graduating from Peter’s Township High School in 2016, I earned my marketing degree from Slippery Rock University in 2020. My journey in the restaurant industry began at a young age, sparking a passion that has only grown over the years.

Upon completing my studies, I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of my career path. However, I was fortunate to step into the role of event coordinator and assistant manager at Arlecchino. This opportunity has allowed me to deepen my understanding of the industry and build invaluable connections. Starting as a server assistant, I never imagined I would discover my true calling here. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and excited for what lies ahead.

Meet Mara Beck, Alla Famiglia / Arlecchino Pastry Chef. Mara is a graduate of the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute and has been the Pastry Chef here for 2 years. Mara comes from a family who loves to cook and bake, and this passion is clearly displayed through her pastry creations.

Prior to joining the Alla Famiglia family, Mara has spent time in several notable Pittsburgh restaurants including the Inn on Negri, Park Brugge, Willow and Siempre Algo.

In her spare time, Mara enjoys spending time outdoors with her Niece and Nephew, kayaking, gardening and hiking with her Pug named Dexter.

Chef Michelangelo Aliaga was born in a small Peruvian town called, Celendín. As the second eldest of Italian immigrants, Aliaga grew up in a very traditional family and was inspired by his grandfather’s passion for family and cooking.

In the late 90s, Michelangelo attended Alma Culinary School in Milan and met various Italian chefs who helped him discover his love for Italian food. Upon graduation, Aliaga began his career in Tuscany before enduring his culinary journey in the United States. Prior to opening Primo Italia, Aliaga made his name in the Los Angeles culinary world at Cecconi’s West Hollywood and then Palm Desert’s La Spiga. Chef Michelangelo Aliaga, is passionate about Italian cooking and its deep history. He has created a rich, abundant menu using local purveyors and fine ingredients in making homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and Mediterranean fish dishes.