The Cincinnati Bailliage returned for a third visit to the popular Tano Bistro on a blustery evening in mid-November. Gaetano (Tano) Williams and his wife Gina started their journey into the restaurant world in December 2009 by renovating an 1870s-era hardware store and converting it into a 44-seat restaurant. The following year, they expanded into the space next door, adding a bar and patio which gave them seating for 100. The couple became well known in the Greater Cincinnati area for providing high-quality culinary experiences with impeccable service and great attention to detail in a warm, inviting setting.

On May 28, 2017 – which happened to be the 40th anniversary of the infamous Beverly Hills Supper Club fire across the river in northern Kentucky – the Bistro and the apartment next to it were destroyed in a tragic fire. To the delight of the Loveland community (and beyond), Chef Tano and Gina rebuilt the restaurant, in the process doubling its size and creating a rooftop dining option when weather permits.

For the dine-around, each member and guest brought a bottle of fine wine to share, filling the full length of the Bistro’s gorgeous bar. During the reception, we enjoyed passed appetizers of Ricotta & Honey Wafers, Grilled Prosciutto-wrapped Asparagus, and Parmesan Meatball Skewers. Our three-course dinner started with a seasonal Fall salad of Roasted Butternut Squash and Pickled Beets served over Blended Lettuces dressed with Maple Sherry Vinaigrette. For the second course, diners had a choice of Braised Short Ribs served with Roasted Root Vegetables and a Blue Cheese Potato Waffle or Crisp Fried Eggplant served over Pasta in a Mushroom/Basil Marinara Sauce. A selection of desserts included assorted small bites of Canolis, Cheesecakes, and Fruit Tarts. A new feature debuted during the dine-around: during the dessert course, a robust selection of sauternes, ports, and late harvest wines were offered at a special tasting table. It was a true highlight of the evening and could become a regular treat!

Bailli George Elliott introduced and applauded Tano Bistro’s talented staff and thanked our newly appointed Vice Chargé de Missions Jon Powell for working with Chef Tano to produce an outstanding event. It turned out to be a very special day for Tano and Gina Williams, who could not be present for the actual event. Their grandchild was born that day! With many thanks for a great dining experience, we wish them much joy with their growing family.

Graig Smith, Vice Chargé de Presse