Rockford, Illinois, has welcomed a new addition to its culinary landscape with the opening of Plume, an Italian restaurant that promises a fresh take on northern Italian cuisine. Located in the historic space once occupied by Der Rathskeller, Plume is set to become a beloved local dining destination. Owned by husband-and-wife team Lia Pennacchi and Chase Williams, the restaurant aims to blend tradition with innovation, offering a unique dining experience centered on seasonal ingredients and fresh pasta.
A New Beginning in a Historic Space
The former Der Rathskeller, a German restaurant that served Rockford for nearly 90 years, has been given a new lease on life with the opening of Plume. The location at 1132 Auburn Street holds significant sentimental value, and the new owners intend to honor its legacy while creating new traditions. The couple purchased the property in March 2024, transforming it into a venue that reflects both their passion for Italian cuisine and their commitment to the local community.
Culinary Vision: Northern Italian Delights
Plume’s menu is inspired by the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, where Pennacchi’s family roots lie. This region is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, characterized by fresh, seasonal ingredients and a focus on meats, cheeses, and artisanal pasta. Unlike many Italian restaurants that emphasize red sauces, Plume’s offerings will vary with the seasons, ensuring that dishes are both authentic and innovative.
Key Menu Highlights:
- Seasonal Pasta: Handmade in-house, featuring fresh ingredients like tomatoes in summer and pumpkin in fall.
- Tigelle: A traditional flatbread from the Bologna region, adding an authentic touch to the menu.
- Homemade Desserts: Including gelato and ice cream crafted on-site for a true Italian experience.
Williams, who serves as the executive chef, emphasizes the importance of using hyper-seasonal ingredients. “We’re not trying to just feed people,” Williams stated. “We want it to be an experience that you can’t get somewhere else.”
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Plume seeks to create an upscale yet casual dining atmosphere. The restaurant features multiple dining spaces, including an intimate indoor area, a charming outdoor patio for enjoying summer evenings, and a versatile basement space for larger gatherings and special events. Memorabilia from Der Rathskeller, such as original menus and liquor licenses, are displayed to pay homage to the location’s storied past.
The restaurant’s name, Plume, is a translation of Pennacchi’s family name, symbolizing a blend of heritage and new beginnings. The couple’s vision is to create a place where guests can enjoy exceptional food and a warm, inviting ambiance.
Community and Culinary Excellence
The opening of Plume has been met with excitement from the Rockford community. The restaurant held a series of private, soft-opening events leading up to its grand opening, which took place on June 19, 2024. The Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion, underscoring the significance of this new venture for the local area.
Pennacchi and Williams bring a wealth of experience to Plume. They previously worked together at Social Urban Bar and Restaurant in downtown Rockford, and later at Lark in Janesville, Wisconsin. Their shared expertise and passion for the culinary arts are evident in every aspect of Plume, from the meticulously crafted menu to the thoughtfully designed dining spaces.
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Conclusion
Plume is poised to become a cornerstone of Rockford’s dining scene, offering residents and visitors alike a taste of northern Italy right in the heart of the city. With its commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation, Plume represents the best of what Rockford’s culinary future holds. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a meal at Plume promises to be an unforgettable experience.
