About Us
Coffee, Cocktails, Gelato & More
Where the neighborhood comes to belong
In Italy, every small neighborhood has its bar. It’s where the day starts. A cappuccino before work, a quick panino for lunch, and an aperitivo with friends before dinner. Nights end with a scoop of gelato or an amaro. It's a rhythm, not a routine, and it's what you'll find at the Italian Bar at 5008 Connecticut Avenue in Chevy Chase, DC.
A sincerely authentic Italian experience
When you walk into this quaint stand-up bar, you’re greeted with a buongiorno. You savor a Roman-style caffè espresso or a bright Aperol spritz. You indulge in a cup of pistachio gelato that the Italian ambassador deemed one of the best in Washington, DC. For a few moments, you’re transported to Italy.
Quality real Italians can (and do) trust.
The Italian Bar features fresh, simple, and quality ingredients with every order. The Papetti's invested in state-of-the-art equipment like a three-group Lavazza espresso machine, so your espresso is made from freshly ground beans every time. The top-of-the-line Carpigiani gelato maker churns out over a dozen flavors only steps away from the walk-up window where you order. Cannoli are filled upon request. Tramezzini, panini, cakes, cookies, and brownies are also housemade and refreshed throughout the week.
Our Story
Owner-operated, not outsourced
Massimo and Carolyn Papetti aren't investors who hired someone else to run the business. They are behind every new idea, menu change, and event.
Massimo Papetti hails from Rome, Italy. He met his wife Carolyn in Rome in 1998 while she was studying there. They moved to East Hampton in 2005 where Massimo began his restaurant career and became a local celebrity!
Sommelier and owner Carolyn Papetti hails from East Hampton, NY. She lived in Rome for 8 years where she completed her MBA in marketing, and later her sommelier certification. Carolyn has been working in wine at the helm of restaurants, clubs and tourism ever since!
The Papettis began running restaurants together in 2005. They live in the neighborhood and have two boys, Francesco and Luca, who are often seen working at I'm Eddie Cano or the Italian Bar!
More sincerely Italian experiences
Parliamo!
Italian Conversation Happy Hour
Join our Italian-speaking community where you can practice (or perfect) your Italian language skills.
Flight Night!
Aperitivo Hour - that's Italian for Happy Hour
Find your new favorite with our Flight Night! Aperitivo Hour. Choose 3 mini spritzes or our regionally-themed wine flight.
Join us for dinner
I'm Eddie Cano, our Ristorante Italiano is only steps away!
Enjoy our housemade pasta that Eater deemed the best in Washington, DC seven years running.
