Massimo Felici

Don Cheech is an Italian-American restaurant created by Executive Chef Massimo Felici. Born in Milan, Italy, Chef Felici moved to New York City at the age of 11. He draws inspiration from his old neighborhood and the classic cuisine of New York’s historic Little Italy on Mulberry Street, where exceptionally well-prepared food was served in an elegant yet comfortable setting. The food at Don Cheech reflects that same rich history.

Executive Chef and restaurateur Massimo Felici’s passion for food started as a young boy growing up in New York. He started his career in the restaurant business in Manhattan. Through the following years, he moved up the ladder in many fine Italian establishments in New York such as Cipriani's, Giambelli, Da Umberto, Canastels, and more.

At only 22 years old, Massimo traveled to Florence, Italy where he honed his skills in a few local trattorias. Soon after he opened his own restaurant in Florence, "Il Canapone," a very quaint and authentic trattoria with only 35 seats and located near the beautiful Palazzo Pitti and one of his most cherished restaurants. After 2 years, it was named one of the best trattorias in Florence where locals eat in the "A Tavola" magazine.

He then returned to New York to practice his art in fine restaurants. Massimo helmed the kitchen as executive chef and partner at "Da Vittorio" (which was owned by Da Umberto's Restaurant family). Soon after, he opened his own trattoria around the corner called Ribollita and received praises from NY Times, Eric Isimov, New York Magazine, Time Out Mag, and many more.

Later in the year 2000 he opened La Nonna, a Tuscan restaurant. He got reviewed by William Grimes with great accolades, but sadly had to close after 9/11 and was forced to sell Ribollita due to lease bought out by large development company.

In the past 10 years, Massimo has become one of the best New York City restaurant consultants helping dozens of restaurants create their own story. He worked with places such as Nino's Tuscany (2.5 stars from Crains magazine) and DeGrezia restaurant (3 stars from Crains magazine) where he led a successful culinary class program for the Italian cook enthusiasts of New York City.

Later on, he moved to Staten Island and fell in love with it because it reminded him of his old school Brooklyn Italian neighborhood.

After moving to Staten Island, Massimo and his wife Deya opened Vinum Restaurant, which earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for five consecutive years. He served as Owner and Executive Chef. Massimo was also a partner and Executive Chef at The Richmond American Bistro and The Belvedere Club, a private Italian members-only establishment.

In 2022, He opened Don Cheech, an American Italian Restaurant. Understanding today’s evolving tastes, he has also expanded the menu to include a delicious selection of vegan offerings that stay true to Italian flavors while meeting the modern diner’s demand for plant-based options. These dishes are thoughtfully crafted to satisfy vegans and non-vegans alike, showcasing his versatile culinary expertise.

Beyond his culinary expertise, Massimo is a recognized pillar of the Staten Island community and serves as the President of the Rosebank Merchants Association. In this leadership role, he advocates for local businesses and economic vitality on Staten Island’s North Shore.

Chef Felici is deeply committed to community enrichment through culinary education and outreach. He regularly conducts pizza-making classes for local school children, fosters healthy living through cooking classes and a regular healthy cooking series on Staten Island community media TV, promoting wellness and nutrition to residents of all ages.

As a sought-after restaurant consultant, Massimo helps other establishments craft meaningful culinary identities while steadfastly championing the preservation of Italian-American culinary heritage.

With an ever-evolving menu, warm ambiance, and a curated wine collection housed in an elegant glass cellar, Don Cheech stands as a tribute to Massimo Felici’s passion, dedication, and leadership both in the kitchen and across the Staten Island community.