Several changes have taken place at Siena Trattoria over the past couple of years, but little has been publicized, according to executive chef Zachery Comis. Chef Comis took over Siena’s kitchen nearly two and a half years ago after relocating to Wilmington from Colorado. He worked previously for the highly esteemed Five-Star, Five-Diamond Penrose Room restaurant at the Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Upon his arrival at Siena, Comis began working through the menu, eliminating items that weren’t selling and reworking the staples so that everything could be made in house.

Today, Comis operates an entirely from-scratch kitchen with the help of sous chef Anthony Weiss and pastry chef Monica Weiss who followed Comis from the Broadmoor. Everything from sauces and dressings to bread and desserts are made in house.

“This is not fine dining,” said Comis. “But it’s high-quality food at a reasonable price.”

Katherine Kafer and Curt Pryor, formerly of Lagerheads Tavern in Wrightsville Beach, took over as owners of Siena in December. Comis says that under the new ownership he has been able to continue to refine Siena’s menu.

“We have a very loyal following and everyone wants something new and exciting, so I’m constantly coming up with new specials to keep things interesting,” he said.

Comis says that Kafer and Pryor have expanded the restaurant’s selection of craft beer and added several new wines as well.

Siena will close briefly at the end of the month for renovations. New paint and artwork as well as additional patio seating are planned.

Comis says he and the rest of the team at Siena want to be known as a family-friendly restaurant, the kind of place families can relax and enjoy a great meal any night of the week.

Siena Trattoria opens at 4:00 p.m. daily and is located at 3315 Masonboro Loop Road.

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