Dine and Discover Queens: Marco Del Peschio & Roberto Lamorte - Tuscan Hills

It’s “Dine and Discover Queens” time! “Dine and Discover Queens” is a monthly spotlight on some of the best food options from around the borough! This month’s featured restaurant is Tuscan Hills, a culinary oasis in Forest Hills offering authentic Italian cuisine. Marco Del Peschio and Roberto Lamorte are co-owners of the establishment. To learn more, go to https://www.tuscanhillsnyc.com/.  

What inspired the creation of your business, and how did you get your start?

My partner and I have both worked in the restaurant industry for a long time, and we are both from Italy. When we were children, the typical Italian restaurant looked rustic, with yellow walls and wood tables. My partner is from the Tuscany region, Livorno, and our cuisine is typical of that area. 

 Can you share any memorable moments or experiences you’ve had as a restaurant owner in Queens? 

 When we opened, we were struggling so much until one day, I got a phone call from CBS News. I thought it was a joke, but it ended up being real, and we ended up on CBS News with Tony Tantillo.  I remember it like it was yesterday; they asked us to bring some food to the studio and even just walking inside was emotional. We left the studio around 4:45 pm and returned to the restaurant by 5:45 pm. When we returned, the phone rang nonstop, and we could hardly keep up. 

Are there dishes or drinks that have become beloved by the Queens community, or anything on your menu you would like to highlight? 

Our most beloved dish is Caciucco alla Livornese, a fish stew in a light, spicy tomato sauce wrapped in pizza dough and baked.