Business Profile: The Briarcliff Manor
Well-known Westchester businessman Perry DiNapoli of the DiNapoli Restaurant Group is no stranger to the world of catering. For 23 years, he successfully ran Antonees Gourmet Catering, which included a well-loved neighborhood deli in Mount Vernon and Antonees on Broadway, a center-hall colonial mansion in White Plains that closed last year.
Soon after its closure, DiNapoli and his wife, Vincenza, quickly began looking for another business, but this time with a restaurant in mind. They found it in the former Haymount House, which they named The Briarcliff Manor. It also includes a restaurant called Antipasti di Napoli Trattoria & Bar.
“The moment I saw this place, I just loved it,” said DiNapoli, who comes from a family of restaurateurs.
From the southern Colonial-style property, one can see majestic views of the Hudson River. The interior, complete with a grand staircase, includes a chandelier in the main restaurant area, marble fireplaces and wrought iron doors that help to make the venue a one-of-a-kind place.
The front of the property is accentuated by a grand fountain and extensive Italian stonework. An outdoor veranda in the front and back can accommodate overflow guests, especially those who are expected to attend the many private affairs that DiNapoli anticipates given the location and ambience of the property.
DiNapoli, a New York City native who now lives in Harrison, catered an array of corporate events and family and community gatherings at Antonees. He wants to duplicate much of that at The Briarcliff Manor, but with a more elegant flair.
“I personally think there’s a huge void in Westchester for well-priced, affordable, elegant events,” said DiNapoli, who in the early 1980s got his first taste of the restaurant business while working as a waiter at the Glen Island Casino. While there, he was classically trained as a waiter captain.
The flexible nature of the building will allow him to cater large and small events, including bridal showers, anniversary celebrations, birthday parties and weddings.
An upstairs bridal suite includes a private restroom and comfortable seating, among other embellishments.
So much of catering is about great food, he added.
“I want this to be a fun place for adults to visit,” DiNapoli said, of the restaurant’s menu that will incorporate the distinct flavors of Italy’s culinary regions. DiNapoli is hoping to put a new twist on small-bite Italian cuisine by offering a buffet assortment of the finest Italian meats and vegetables.
An adjoining bar will serve a range of cocktails with a well-priced selection of wines from California, New York and Italy.
Future plans include offering an antipasti takeout service and business-to-business networking events. DiNapoli is a strong believer in partnering with communities, non-profits and charities in an effort to promote their shared success.
“I know that a lot of people and organizations usually don’t have the opportunity to have events in such a beautiful location and at such a price structure,” DiNapoli said. “I know that we can allow for that.”
DiNapoli will be hosting a number of grand opening events in early June where local residents, businesses, town employees and dignitaries will be treated to food samplings, complementary beverages and live entertainment.
“Giving back to the place where my business is rooted has always been important to me, and it’s something I take to heart,” he said.
The Briarcliff Manor is located at 25 Studio Hill Rd. in Briarcliff Manor. It is open Wednesday through Sunday.
For reservations, call 914-944-1524. To see the regular menu and the many packages available, visit www.thebriarcliffmanor.com.
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