Le Virtu, Brigantessa Raising Money for Italian Earthquake Relief

This picture taken on Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2016 shows the crumbling hulk of the Hotel Roma in Amatrice, central Italy, where a strong quake had hit a few hours earlier. Strong aftershocks rattled residents and rescue crews alike Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, as hopes began to dim that firefighters would find any more survivors from Italy’s earthquake. (Massimo Percossi/ANSA via AP)

With the devastating earthquake that struck central Italy earlier this week, more than 600 restaurants have begun donating €2 euro towards earthquake relief for every plate of the region’s signature dish, Bucatini all’Amatriciana sold.

Closer to home, Francis Cratil Cretarola, Cathy Lee and Joe Cicala are likewise donating money to the relief effort for dishes sold. At Le Virtu, ordering Bucatini all’Amatriciana or Spaghetti alla Gricia (from Grisciano, also badly damaged) will send $3 for Italian earthquake relief. At Brigantessa, Pizza all’Amatriciana will also trigger a donation.

The bucatini for the pasta has been donated by Marcelli Formaggi, the cured guanciale has been donated by Salumificio Cicala and 1732 Meats. The specials will run from now until through the holidays.

Additionally, on Thursday, September 22nd, Le Virtu will host a fundraiser featuring products from Marcelli Formaggi, 1732 Meats, Salumificio Cicala, and others. The restaurant will serve a four-course dinner ($125/person) featuring dishes from Amatrice, Norcia, and Castelluccio, as well as southwestern Marche, all towns and regions that were badly affected by the earthquake. Cookbook author Domenica Marchetti will also be donating books for sale, with all profits being donated to earthquake relief.

Le Virtu
Brigantessa [Foobo0z]