Tennis Titans Flock to NYC’s Osteria Delbianco: A Hidden Gem for US Open Stars
I’m Avery Sinclair, a no-nonsense journalist with a sharp eye for detail and a healthy dose of skepticism. As a self-proclaimed cynic, I don’t get too excited about celebrity sightings or trendy restaurants, but when the world’s top tennis players start flocking to a small Italian joint in NYC, I take notice. It seems that Osteria Delbianco, a cozy Midtown eatery, has become the go-to spot for US Open stars looking for a taste of home and a relaxed atmosphere.
The restaurant, located on East 49th Street, has been a favorite among tennis pros for years, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. Recently, No. 1-ranked Jannik Sinner and No. 2 star Carlos Alcaraz, two of the sport’s biggest names, dined at the restaurant on the same night, sparking a flurry of interest among fans and media alike. According to Gustavo Hodzic, a co-owner of Osteria Delbianco, the encounter was purely coincidental, but it’s clear that the restaurant has become a hub for tennis stars during the US Open.
Sinner, the 24-year-old Italian sensation, is particularly fond of Osteria Delbianco, having first started dining there in 2020 shortly after it opened. He’s known to enjoy the pasta with bolognese sauce, as well as the veal and scallops. Alcaraz, the 22-year-old Spanish star, also returned to the restaurant on Monday, devouring the gnocchi with a “little ragu and truffle” and a side of grilled fish and roasted potatoes. It’s not just Sinner and Alcaraz who are fans of the restaurant; other top players like Andrey Rublev, Lorenzo Musetti, Leylah Fernandez, and Jasmine Paolini have also been spotted dining there during the tournament.
So, what makes Osteria Delbianco so special? For one, its convenient location in Midtown East, close to many of the hotels where tennis pros stay, is a major draw. The restaurant’s warm Italian vibe and traditional cuisine, inspired by chef Diego Bigucci’s upbringing in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, also seem to play a role. “They feel very relaxed here,” co-owner Dorjan Kalaja said of the restaurant’s famous tennis customers. “They feel at home. They love it here. They create such a wonderful atmosphere when they are here. People love them. Now we have a personal relationship with them.”
As the US Open heats up, it’s clear that Osteria Delbianco will continue to be a hotspot for tennis stars and fans alike. With its unique blend of traditional Italian cuisine and relaxed atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this small restaurant has become a favorite among the world’s top tennis players. And who knows? Maybe we’ll see Sinner and Alcaraz facing off again in the final, or perhaps over a plate of pasta at Osteria Delbianco.
As the tournament continues, one thing is certain: Osteria Delbianco has cemented its place as a hidden gem in the world of tennis. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, a supporter of the world’s top tennis players, or simply looking for a unique dining experience, this small restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
In the world of professional tennis, it’s not uncommon for players to have superstitions or good luck charms. For Sinner and Alcaraz, it seems that Osteria Delbianco has become a trusted favorite. As they continue to battle it out on the court, it’s clear that this small restaurant will remain a beloved destination for both players and fans alike.
And that’s today’s dose of reality. You’re welcome.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and New York Post
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
