DONATELLA AND FRANCO BARONE
CO-OWNERS
IL BARONE RISTORANTE
WHY: Couple opened the now notable Italian restaurant Il Barone in 2009 in Newport Beach; Franco was previously the longtime chef at Antonello near South Coast Plaza. Donatella handles operations and is the face of the front of the house. She and her husband have welcomed dozens of OC’s movers and shakers over the years as Il Barone is known as a go-to power lunch spot and a dinner hotspot for those looking for an authentic taste of Italy—specifically Sicily.
IN THE NEWS: The Barones literally have been on the move for the past few years. In 2022, they moved to a temporary space in Irvine before returning to Newport Beach this year. They now occupy the former Cucina Alessa space on Coast Highway near the river jetty in Newport Beach. This is the fourth home for Il Barone.
NOTABLE: Launched a new brunch menu earlier this year, available Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donatella calls it a refined Italian brunch experience with elegant flavors, house specialties and classic morning cocktails. Eldest son, Jon, assists in the kitchen, handles catering and acts as a private chef when not helping his parents.
QUOTABLE: “It’s a little different for us because we’re known for business meals and this area is more family friendly, but we took it on, and it’s been great.” — Donatella says of the new Newport Beach location
