Our Story

Beginnings 

Rocco Muriale’s grandparents, Rocco & Isabella Miglarese Muriale, came to West Virginia from Italy in the early 1900s. Rocco’s parents, Frank and Violet Muriale, started the restaurant in 1969 with his uncle Sam and aunt Rose, and with lots of help from grandparents, a younger brother, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Since our founding, the Muriale name has stood for quality and value. Generations later, the tradition continues. 

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Next Chapter 

In late 2021, Rocco chose Scott and Jennifer Duarte to be the new owners of Muriale’s Italian Kitchen. Scott started his culinary career working for Rocco’s father as a short order cook for Muriale’s Restaurant on Bridgeport Hill in the 80s. Upon Graduating from the Pennsylvania Institute of Culinary Arts Scott went on to work at the Greenbrier, Tamarack, Pinehurst Resort, and most recently at the Bridgeport Conference Center and as founder/operator of Mia Margherita in Bridgeport. Over the years, Scott and Rocco remained connected. The familial connection between the Muriales and Duartes goes back, as both families immigrated from the same area of southern Italy to North Central West Virginia. The Duartes are grateful to still have Rocco around the restaurant, ensuring the traditions and exceptional quality continue for years to come. 

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Quality Service and Food 

Customer service is much more than a saying here at Muriale’s, it is a passion. From the smiles you see when you enter the door to the attention you receive throughout your visit, we take pride in making our guests feel comfortable and appreciated. For decades, our recipes have kept with tradition. Our dishes remain as good today as they were when you first stepped inside our doors or enjoyed them at a friend’s wedding. Our walls are proudly filled with acknowledgments from former guests who enjoyed their visit. 

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Our Guests 

Along the way, our guests have been our best marketers. By telling your friends about Muriale’s, we have continued to grow. By telling us what makes your taste buds come alive, we have cultivated a menu that reflects your tastes. Whether you are dining here, utilizing our curbside pickup service, or letting us cater for a special event, we are confident in our ability to meet your tastes and exceed your expectations.