Da Damaso

If You find yourself in a charming Great Kills neighborhood of Staten Island, a world away from the city's frenzy, don't shy away from Da Damaso on Amboy Road. Tucked away like a hidden treasure, you spot this gem, a little Italian restaurant that delivers a taste of Salerno. The charming atmosphere and aroma of home cooking with the scent of family welcome greets you at the door, pulling you into a cozy space that feels less like a restaurant and more like a family's gathering. ​The menu is a love letter to the owner's hometown of Salerno, with dishes you won't find at your typical Italian-American joint. Each plate is a masterpiece of authentic, high-quality ingredients. Every dish we have tried so far tasted like it was made with a secret family recipe passed down through generations. ​What truly sets Da Damaso apart is the warmth of the family who runs it. They treat every guest not just as a customer, but as a long-lost relative returning home. The owner’s son, who served us shared stories about the dishes. This isn't just a meal; it's a full-on cultural experience. You leave feeling not only incredibly satisfied but also like you've been adopted into a new Italian family. The owner/chef, his wife (that cooks as well) and the oldest son who always greets you with the smile are incredibly charming people. ​If you're looking for an authentic taste of Southern Italy without the plane ticket, Da Damaso is the place. It’s an unforgettable experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Salerno.

Absolutely delicious! Da Damaso never disappoints! I had the burger and fries and it was next level. The bun was perfectly toasted with a beautiful crust, the patty was juicy and flavorful, and the cheese melted just right. Fresh tomato and greens gave it a nice crunch, and the fries were golden, crispy, and addictive. You can tell everything is made with care and quality. This place has real flavor — highly recommend if you’re in the mood for something unforgettable!

It's almost impossible to find an outstanding espresso here in the US. The coffee here is exactly the same as in Italy. If your from Italy or visit often, you know what I mean. So first if your looking for authentic Italian espresso, look no further. Now the food. This business is a family affair. The whole family helps and there are no other employees. The Damaso family is here for only a couple of years and the food is a step back in time when ingredients mattered more than cost. The food is fresh and the specials change daily. The pics below cannot capture how flavorful the lasagna with bechamel really was. The meatballs are tender and delicious. DaDamaso does not serve these gigantic American portions. The food is expertly prepared and made with love. The welcome I get is incredible and I feel like part of the family now. Go to this new hidden gem before everyone finds out about it.

Went last night on word of my friend. The food is very good, unpretentious and made with care and love. A little mix of Italian-American and true Sothern Italian .Started with a Salerno styled arancini which I loved: classic and nicely balanced, a cold appetizer platter got us further in the mood and then we were treated to a wonderfully prepared lasagna(!) made in the southern style with bechamel and hard boiled eggs, quite a surprise for me as it was pure love on a plate. A perfectly grilled medium -rare bone-in ribeye was a great choice tonight too. Again, prepared with care and an 'italian eye'. The Salerno born chef/owner and son run this 3 week old establishment and are ernest and all to happy to please their guests. A nicely presented and purely enjoyable tiramisu ended our meal in style. I recommend Da Damaso if you are looking for an honestly prepared meal with zero attitude. Bring your wine as they await a license.

Da Damaso is a hidden gem in Staten Island that brings the heart of Salerno, Italy to every dish. The pasta is rich and fresh, the buffalo mozzarella melts in your mouth, and the special cannoli is a perfect finish. Every bite tastes authentic and full of soul. If you’re craving real southern Italian cooking, this is the place.

Da Damaso has been an authentic Italian experience 3/3 times I’ve dined here. The owners are beyond friendly and will take the time to help you choose your order. The food is exceptional - it’s all prepared fresh by the owners, making it feel as if you’re a guest in their home! We have tried several specialty paninis, eggplant blanco (MUST try it), lasagna, polpette di melanzane, and of course, the homemade almond & hazelnut cocoa cake with espresso. I am looking forward to many more special meals at Da Damaso!

Very kind and good atmosphere I really liked it. Italian cuisine chef, very good and everything was delicious. I really liked this place. I give a big recommendation.👌👌👌🥰💗

A tiny restaurant with big flavors. The food was excellent and so was the service. I had the Cannonelli wig spinach and ricotta cheese and fir dessert the tiramisu with berries. Evetything waz fresha d drlicious. Iwill definitely be going back.

I have dined at Pierogi Island twice in the last three months and i have got to say the food is outstanding. I had the polish platter the first time then the second Ukrainian borscht with ruskie perogies (potato and cheese) and they were best thing to have on a winter day. The service is top notch as the staff is friendly and prompt. The restaurant is small but nice and cozy giving it an intimate ambiance.

Cute spot, the spinach and cheese pierogis were delicious. I'd definitely will keep coming back for those.

Tried Pierogi Island for the first time and everything we had was great. The Borscht was delicious but I'd especially recommend the polish platter. The kielbasa was delicious and had a great mustard on it. The hunters stew was excellent as well. Nice cozy interior for sit down service with a good atmosphere. Convenient location and short walk from the SIR train station