La Famiglia Ristorante – Sena Family History

The Sena family’s American chapter began in 1968, when Carlo “Papa” Sena left Naples for Philadelphia. A trained chef from Zia Teresa in Naples, he first worked at Gino’s Restaurant on Walnut Street before setting out to create something of his own.

In April 1976, Papa opened La Famiglia Ristorante, transforming a Colonial-era tea warehouse into one of Philadelphia’s most refined dining rooms. From the beginning, his children were part of the journey. Gino, the eldest, worked at Papa’s side in the kitchen from day one and would later become executive chef. His other three sons—Luca, Giuseppe, and Maurizio—also started out at the restaurant, helping to establish its rhythm and reputation. Giuseppe eventually took over the dining room and wine cellar, defining the graceful service that became a hallmark of La Famiglia. Rosa, the youngest and only daughter, joined in the mid-1980s as bookkeeper, bringing her steady hand to the business.

By the early 1990s, as Papa gradually stepped back from daily operations—though he never truly retired—Gino and Giuseppe assumed the mantle of leadership. Their blend of culinary mastery and hospitality carried La Famiglia Ristorante forward, cementing it as one of Philadelphia’s premier dining institutions. Over the years, the restaurant has been celebrated by critics and guests alike, with honors that include repeated recognition from Wine Spectator, Philadelphia Magazine’s Best of Philly, selection by GAYOT among Philadelphia’s finest, and induction into the prestigious Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the international gastronomic society.

Today, the legacy extends to a third generation. Carlo, Papa’s grandson, began working in the restaurant at just twelve years old, splitting his time between helping in the kitchen and bussing tables. He is now General Manager, carrying forward the vision his grandfather set nearly fifty years ago.

Through it all, La Famiglia Ristorante has remained faithful to its founding spirit: a place where guests are welcomed like family, and where every dish reflects the traditions of Naples, the elegance of Rome, and the rich culinary heritage of Italy as a whole.