About Us

Abrusci’s (pronounced uh-brew-sees or uh-brew-shees) was established by Applewood natives Jeff and Steve Progar in November of 2000. Self-proclaimed gourmets at an early age, (both needed step stools to reach the stove), it was always their dream to own and operate a neighborhood restaurant. Long on Italians, but short on Italian food, Applewood called out for something new. Abrusci’s was born.

Named after New York relatives, we make every effort to serve dishes that would make the family’s patriarch, Giuseppe Giovanni Abrusci, proud. Steve is our Executive Chef, and with his education from both ASU and Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, enjoys creating Italian dishes and updating our menus seasonally.

In 2010, an opportunity to expand and open a 2nd location, presented itself. The location was Cherry Creek North and our ‘family chain’ was begun. Opening that April, the store has since enjoyed seeing new customers every day, serving dinner inside and out (on our patios, weather permitting) and becoming a part of a long tradition of successful merchants in the neighborhood.

We have a new General Manager in our Cherry Creek store, Katherine Buescher. Katherine grew up in a restaurant in her home state of NJ and has worked in restaurants a good part of her life. Please ask for her next time you are in as she’d love your input on building on our success!

Our Applewood staff includes Steve, his wife Rhonda as Restaurant Manager, David White/Restaurant Manager and Annie Lavinsky, our Catering Manager.

We thank you for joining us and invite you to enjoy the menu and atmosphere.

Mangia Mangia!