General Info

In 1984, Cathy and Niel Carcaterra purchased a small pizzeria with a mere 16 seats – they named it Papa Joes. Over the span of more than 30 years, Cathy and Niel’s commitment to great food and service enabled them to grow the business and undergo several expansions. Papa Joes’ most significant expansion occurred in 1993 to our current location on Commack Road. Cathy and Neil extended their brand when they opened a catering-focused venue called Bella Verde in 2003. Located on a 9-hole golf course in Heartland Village, Bella Verde hosts events ranging from weddings, engagement parties, fundraisers, birthday parties, bar mitzvahs and other special occasions. In 2013, Anthony (Niel and Cathy’s son) returned to the family business after a 7 year stint with Abigail Kirsch in New York City. Anthony teamed up with long-time friend Chef James Ahern to open Verde Wine Bar and Ristorante. Verde Wine Bar and Ristorante proudly serves guests local and sustainable fare. Their menu is eclectic with Old World Italian influence. Verde’s American Wine and Spirits program is robust with domestic products and innovative mixology. There is a new menu every three months to offer the most fresh and seasonal choices. Come enjoy an innovative concept based in tradition that has been 30 years in the making!