'Fresh and Clean' Rules New Britain Restaurant

The clear-cut working relationship between Pasta Mista owner James Fulginiti and head chef George Cusimano will unlock the success for the recently opened Italian restaurant on Butler Avenue in New Britain.

"My job is to run the place and keep it clean," said Fulginiti. "Except for the pizza, I don't touch the entrees. I am very picky on appearance, presentation is everything."

While Fulginiti keeps the dining area sparkling, Cusimano is in the kitchen making sure everything meets his standard of freshness, all the way down to the salads.

"I do not freeze anything," said Cusimano. "Something comes in from the truck, it never sees the freezer. As soon as I get it, the clock starts ticking. Everything is made to order. I won't even pre-cut the lettuce, because you can taste the difference."

Fulginiti originally started out in the restaurant business, then moved into real estate, where he stayed until the opportunity to grab the location, settled on the corner of a shopping strip.

"I knew the opening of the 202 bypass would help get more customers from outside the area," said Fulginiti. "I like the local tightness around here. People who live and work in this area are loyal to businesses, and there is enough to go around. If we can get 30 percent to give our place a shot, we'll keep them."

The combination of pizza that Fulginiti says is better than boardwalk pizza and expertly crafted entrees that stay priced under $20 is Pasta Mista's winning formula.

Cusimano is a product of Montgomery County Community College's culinary arts program, but his 15 months as a sous chef at Cock & Bull in Peddler's Village is what really prepared him for the restaurant world.

"It's like a boot camp there," said Cusimano. "I learned more there than anywhere else. One Thanksgiving I had to prepare more than 60 turkeys. It was insanity."

The expertise shined through in a tasty chicken chipotle panini, carefully placed on a bed of homemade potato chips. One bite into the spicy chipotle gave away the fact that Cusimano makes all of his own sauces, nothing from a jar.

Pasta Mista is located at 290 W. Butler Ave., Chalfont. Dine-in, take-out or delivery are available for customers. Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. The restaurant is BYOB and offers free WiFi service. All major credit cards are accepted.