In June 2007, Michael Vergiels and Jody Kelly took over Albanese’s on Keefe, an Italian mom-and-pop restaurant and tavern that’s been in the Riverwest neighborhood since 1961.
Vergiels, who also manages a financial company for the Russ Darrow Group, was a customer at Albanese’s on Keefe for 15 years and became close friends with the Albanese family. He and Jody Kelly, the granddaughter of the original owners, Joseph and Frances Albanese, decided to join forces and take over the business last summer.
“I respect (the Albaneses) immensely for their hard work and dedication to the community and the restaurant business,” says Vergiels.
There is also an Albanese's in Mequon, 12020 N. River Rd., and Albanese's Roadhouse, 2301 Bluemound Rd., in Waukesha. Both of these restaurants are independently owned.
Vergiels admits he’s slightly concerned about the future of Albanese’s on Keefe, with more and more small, independent businesses closing in Milwaukee, but he hopes Albanese’s strong history in the community and reputation for good pasta will keep it alive for many years to come.
OnMilwaukee.com caught up with Vergiels to find out more about Albanese’s on Keefe now that it’s under new ownership.
OnMilwaukee.com: How has the restaurant changed?
Michael Vergiels: Actually, we really haven't changed much. We have the same famous red sauce and house wine. We have been running everything the same, for the most part, as Joseph and Frances originally intended the restaurant to be run. However, one new thing we will be introducing on May 2 is to start opening for lunch on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Also, a more elaborate menu and bar selection is in the works.
OMC: What are your goals for the restaurant?
MV: When I bring up Albanese's to people I talk to, one of two things come up. One is, "I thought that place closed" and two, "I use to go there a lot but haven't been in a while.” I want people to know that, yes, we are still open and have been at the same location since 1961. Also, if it's been a while since your last visit, come back and give us a try, you will not be disappointed. You will have the most excellent, true Italian experience for the money, anywhere in the country!
OMC: Best in the country? Whoa. What’s so great about your joint?
MV: Albanese's on Keefe is a throwback to the way things use to be. It is a traditional Italian family-style place. We treat everyone like family. How many restaurants in Milwaukee can date back to the same family owning the restaurant since 1941? (New York's Barbetta Italian restaurant, however, has been run by the same family since 1906. -ed.) I would put our sauce up to anyone!
OMC: How has business been lately?
MV: Business was a little rough with the harsh winter since we've had to close down or not open at all three times because of snow. We are, as many business owners are, happy to see spring and summer rapidly approaching.
OMC: Is it true you make your own wine there?
MV: Unfortunately, I cannot release any of the family secrets, it’s in the agreement.
OMC: Do you still offer any all-you-can-eat pasta nights?
MV: Yes! Every Monday and Wednesday night is Pasta Night. You pick the pasta and we will add our famous red sauce for $7.95 and it’s all you can eat. Other daily specials range from our garden tortellini alfredo with shrimp or chicken, Italian pork chops with angel hair pasta and our tenderloin beef tip with ribbon pasta, green peppers and onions.
OMC: Did you keep most of the staff when you took over the business?
MV: Yes, the cooks are the same. Both have been with Albanese's for over 12 years. Every meal still comes with free bread from Peter Sciortino's Bakery, the finest in the city!
Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.
Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.
