Philadelphia is getting a taste of Italy’s famous Ferragosto holiday this weekend, complete with an Italo Disco Party, pasta stations, cocktails, a festive summer feast. STARR Restaurant’s Borromini in Rittenhouse is hosting the festive event on August 15th in collaboration with the House of Branca – aka Fernet+ brands
What is Ferragosto?
If you’ve never heard of Ferragosto, think of it as Italy’s ultimate midsummer celebration. The holiday dates back to 18 B.C., when Feriae Augusti was established to mark the end of the agricultural season. Today, Ferragosto is associated with slowing down, gathering with friends and family, eating well, and heading toward the coast for a summer escape.
This year, you won’t have to leave Philadelphia to get in on the festivities.
An Italian-inspired summer party with Italo Disco
From 3 to 7 p.m., the upstairs dining room will transform into an Italian-inspired summer party. Tickets are just $65 per person and include access to the private event, a welcome cocktail, live DJ-spun Italo Disco, passed hors d’oeuvres, a grazing table, and pasta stations.
A special House of Branca cocktail menu and the full bar will also be available for an additional purchase, giving guests plenty of ways to keep the party going.
Cocktail specials include a Branca Mento Espresso Martini made with Branca Menta, Borghetti, Wheatley Vodka and espresso; a Hanky Panky with Bombay Gin, Carpano Classico and Fernet-Branca, and a Fernet & Coke.
There’s also a Spaghett featuring Peroni and Carpano Botanic Bitter, plus a Ferrari Shot made with Fernet-Branca and Campari.
Beyond the spirits, an abundance of pasta stations ensure your tastebuds and belly are also in on the party.
Don’t skip the gelato
The celebrations also extends beyond the upstairs feast, with gelato available from the venue’s cart. Flavors include Peach Bellini Sorbet, Negroni Sorbet, Espresso Martini Gelato, and Mente Chocolate Chip Gelato.
Tickets for the upstairs Ferragosto feast are $65 per person and are selling fast. For one afternoon, Philly is getting its own taste of the Italian holiday tradition, with plates of pasta, glasses of Fernet, Italo Disco, and a table full of summer treats.
Consider this your sign to slow down and celebrate the last weeks of summer, Italian-style.
Date: Saturday, August 15th, 2026
Time: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Tickets: $65 (available on OpenTable)
Location: 1805 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
