USA. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), in partnership with SSP America, has revealed the upcoming launch of VV The Italian Experience, scheduled to open in early 2026.
Located near Gate B17, the Pugliese-style restaurant will be open all day, offering a complete menu from breakfast and salads to handhelds and entrées, highlighting classics such as piadinas, Bolognese and Genovese.
Since its debut in Cincinnati, Ohio in 2023, the restaurant has quickly gained local acclaim for its modern Italian cuisine.
The concept draws on its deep roots in the small town of Casamassella in Puglia, Italy, where it was established in the early 1940s.
The story traces back to Erminio Stefano, who began by making wine, growing vegetables and baking pastries, which gradually transformed into a family enterprise. As the business expanded regionally, it took on the name Vigne Vecchie, complemented by the opening of a bakery.
Before VV The Italian Experience opened in Cincinnati, Stefano’s grandsons introduced the VV Just Italian brand to offer authentic Italian cuisine across the USA.
More than a café or a restaurant, the latest concept was designed to reflect their focus on heritage, quality and tradition.
VV The Italian Experience Co-Founder and CEO Andrea Stefano said, “We are honoured to share our family’s story and culinary traditions with travellers at CVG.
“From our grandfather’s roots in Puglia to our kitchen in Cincinnati, every dish we serve is infused with authenticity, heritage and a love of bringing people together around the table.
“The city of Cincinnati has embraced VV The Italian Experience with great enthusiasm, and opening at CVG with SSP America is an exciting next step for us.”
CVG Airport CEO Larry Krauter added, “We are committed to providing travellers with the opportunity to embrace uniquely Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky experiences.
“This new partnership with VV The Italian Experience brings authentic Italian to our international airport in a way that showcases the excellence of Cincinnati cuisine.”
SSP America Senior Director, Brands and Concepts Afsaneh Benson commented, “VV The Italian Experience is a star in the Cincinnati dining scene, and we’re thrilled to help bring it to CVG.
“This concept beautifully blends heritage, authenticity and modern Italian cuisine, creating an experience that travellers won’t find anywhere else – unless their flight is to Puglia.
“It’s the kind of local brand SSP America is proud to champion – one that offers passengers a genuine taste of place alongside exceptional hospitality.” 
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