Iconic La Bocca Ristorante Is Reimagined And Reenergized With New Owners, But Feels Very Familiar Still

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Your new favorite spot is your old favorite spot.

A classic Westchester dining destination is getting some fresh blood, new ideas, and a few exciting flourishes, but the new proprietors are keeping what helped make treasured memories for so many of us.

La Bocca Ristorante, the beloved Italian restaurant located at 8 Church Street in downtown White Plains, is now under the new ownership of husband-and-wife team AnnaMaria and Alessandro Crocco. The owners say the new name, La Bocca Ristorante & Vineria, reflects "a renewed commitment to its culinary roots and an expanded, elevated wine program."

On Wednesday, the restaurant will host a Grand Reopening ribbon-cutting and a two-day event with White Plains BID. The event will start at 11 a.m. on Wednesday and will include half-priced drinks, a complimentary appetizer (chef's choice) with lunch or dinner, and limoncello after dinner. You can RSVP on Eventbrite or book a reservation on RESY.

The Croccos purchased the restaurant from AnnaMaria Crocco's father, founder Tony Spiritoso, and she says she is honored to carry forward his legacy of warm hospitality and authentic Italian cuisine. Alessandro, a former general manager and Silver Pin Certified Sommelier, now co-owns the restaurant and leads its wine program.

As part of the reimagining of the restaurant, the Croccos say La Bocca has undergone a "thoughtful renovation." The dining room and bar, with room for 70 guests, have been "refreshed to evoke an inviting and modern elegance that welcomes diners into a bright yet refined Italian setting." A newly renovated special-events room with space for up to 75 guests, is ideal for private dinners, celebrations, and gatherings. The space also includes "an intimate wine cellar room, nestled in the back corner," for up to 12 guests, making it perfect for exclusive wine dinners and tasting experiences, which will begin in 2026.

With the restaurant's rebranding as a "Vineria," Alessandro Crocco is curating a specialty wine list focused on rare and regional Italian wines, pairing each with the restaurant's dishes. "The wine cellar room opens up a new dimension, allowing guests to immerse themselves in uniquely tailored wine dinners," the owners explained.

The Croccos have brought on a new chef, trained at a Michelin-starred restaurant, to lead the reimagined menu that is "returning to the spirit of the original vision: true Italian cuisine made with integrity, authenticity, and the finest imported ingredients."

Menu highlights include the Bocca pear salad, the signature lasagna, Sfortatino di Melazane, Branzino al Forno, Costolette di Agnello alla Griglia (grilled rack of lamb), and polpette al sugo (Nonna's beef meatballs in tomato sauce).

"Our menu is about more than just food — it's an experience," AnnaMaria Crocco said. "Every dish is designed to transport you back to Italy. We didn't want to be just another Italian restaurant in Westchester. We built La Bocca Ristorante & Vineria to be special — an honest, deeply Italian experience — with a wine program that truly complements the food."

Alessandro Crocco added, "We are not about oversaturated American-Italian fare. We are focused on nuance, tradition, and celebration. The wines we serve, and the way our chef crafts the dishes, reflect our heritage — and our commitment to offering something genuinely exceptional."

To celebrate the relaunch, La Bocca is partnering with the White Plains BID and 914 Popups to offer a seasonal "Holiday Market" cocktail special and weekday Aperitivo (4 p.m.–6 p.m.) at the bar. Before or after shopping, guests can explore the newly imagined La Bocca and will receive a complimentary Sfornatino di Melanzane with their dinner entree.

As a family-owned restaurant with deep roots in White Plains, the Croccos view the neighborhood as part of their story — and they plan to give back through ongoing community engagement. In addition to the Holiday Market, La Bocca will be hosting a New Year's Eve party with a live DJ and celebratory menu, "setting the tone for a vibrant new era." They will also be announcing their holiday menus soon.

La Bocca Ristorante & Vineria also plans to "infuse the space" with cultural experiences, live music, and exciting partnerships in 2026. The Croccos are planning a calendar of wine tastings, guest musicians, and collaborative events.

For added convenience, La Bocca is also offering valet parking, in partnership with the next-door restaurant, making it easier for guests to arrive and enjoy the evening.

The Croccos say that while ownership has changed, "one thing remains constant: the reverence for authenticity." They say "the signature antipasti, the dedication to imported Italian ingredients, and the warmth of a family-run restaurant are woven into every corner of this reimagined La Bocca." As they start their new chapter, the Croccos say they will do so with "gratitude for the past — and enthusiasm for the future."

For reservations, call (914) 948-3281 or visit RESY. La Bocca's website is currently under construction. You can follow along on social @labocca_ristorante_vineria.