Inside Il Professore: Chef-Driven Italian Dining in Tequesta

A Chef's Journey to Tequesta

Il Professore takes its name from a nickname earned in culinary school by Chef Riccardo Faiella, a Capri-born chef who trained formally in Italian cuisine before working across Italy, Brazil, and the United States. That well-traveled résumé shows up on the plate here in Tequesta, where heritage family recipes meet modern technique in a menu built around handmade pasta, fresh crudos, bocconcini, pappardelle, and ravioli.

Made In-House, Every Day

What sets this kitchen apart is its commitment to doing things the slow way. Ciabatta, focaccia, pasta, and desserts are all prepared fresh in-house daily rather than bought in. Seasonal meat and fish dishes round out a menu that leans into simple, well-executed Italian classics rather than chasing trends.

Bar del Professore and the Wine Room

Beyond the dining room, Il Professore has built out two distinct spaces worth knowing about. Bar del Professore serves carefully crafted cocktails in a casual but sophisticated setting, perfect for a pre-dinner drink or a relaxed night at the bar. Just as notable is the Wine Room, a curated collection personally selected by the chef, which anchors the restaurant's occasional wine dinners pairing special menus with bottles from renowned producers — an approach the restaurant frames around accessibility and value rather than exclusivity.

Whether you're settling in for a full dinner or just stopping by for happy hour, the restaurant's blend of heritage cooking and hospitality has made it a steady presence on Tequesta's dining strip.

Good to Know

Il Professore is located at 626 US-1, Tequesta, FL 33469, with service Monday through Saturday, happy hour from 4–6 PM and dinner from 4–9 PM. Call ahead at (561) 575-9222 for reservations.