Our Story
Dimmi Trattoria opened its doors in May 1999, founded by Raymond Commisso, whose love for food and hospitality was shaped by generations before him. Raymond grew up surrounded by the aroma of freshly baked bread and the hum of family gatherings — his relatives had been in the bakery business since the 1950s, and he spent his teenage years helping in family-owned bakeries, restaurants, and banquet halls.
When he opened Dimmi, Raymond’s vision was simple: a cozy little pizzeria that felt like home. The restaurant began modestly with space for 40 guests between the dining room and the front patio. As Yorkville locals quickly fell in love with the restaurant’s warmth and flavour, the space expanded — first to 100 seats just six months later, and then again three years after opening with the addition of a beautiful side patio. In 2016, a complete renovation gave Dimmi a fresh, timeless new look and introduced a private event room upstairs for intimate celebrations.
The name Dimmi means “tell me” in Italian — a phrase you might hear in a friendly Roman café when someone greets you with “Ciao, dimmi!” (“Hi, tell me!”). Raymond chose it because it captured everything he wanted the restaurant to represent: a warm, welcoming place where conversation and connection flow as freely as the wine.
Raymond Commisso
Our Founder
For Raymond, food has always been about family, tradition, and togetherness. His roots trace back to Calabria in Southern Italy, and while the Dimmi menu has evolved over the years to include beloved dishes from across Italy, the spirit of Calabria remains — especially in the restaurant’s signature house-made sauces.
From day one, Raymond has worked alongside his long-time culinary partner and chef Frank, who has been part of the Dimmi family for over twenty years. Together, they’ve built a menu that’s both comforting and vibrant — a reflection of their friendship and shared passion for authentic Italian cooking.
Some dishes carry special meaning: the Strozzapreti Alla Ernesto pasta honours Raymond’s father, Ernesto; the Spaghetti Della Nonna is a tribute to his mother, Teresa; and the Pizza Cosimo, named after his nephew, quickly became our best-selling pizza.
At Dimmi, every guest is treated like a friend. Raymond’s philosophy is simple — “If you’re dining with us, you’re part of the family.”
The Food Philosophy
The Dimmi approach to Italian cuisine is traditional with a modern twist — wholesome, rustic dishes prepared with care, using quality ingredients and classic techniques. Many of the restaurant’s key ingredients, like Italian tomatoes, olive oil, and pasta, are imported directly from Italy, while all other ingredients are sourced locally to ensure freshness and support nearby producers.
From the very beginning, our menu has grown through the voices of its guests. In the early days, Raymond would ask visitors what they wanted to see on the menu — and those conversations helped shape the Dimmi experience into what it is today: simple, soulful, and deliciously Italian.
The Atmosphere
Dimmi Trattoria is everything you want an Italian restaurant to be — welcoming, cozy, and full of life. The 2016 renovation gave the space a timeless warmth with soft lighting, comfortable seating, and an ambiance perfect for family dinners, friendly get-togethers, or romantic evenings. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch on the patio or celebrating upstairs in the private dining room, Dimmi feels like home.
The Future: What’s Next For Dimmi
Over the last 26 years, Dimmi has become a Yorkville staple — a restaurant that has grown with the neighbourhood while staying true to its roots. Raymond is proud not only of the restaurant’s longevity, but also of the friendships and connections he’s built within the local restaurant community.
In 2024, Raymond’s wife Alex joined the Dimmi team to lead the next chapter: to bring beloved Dimmi flavours beyond the restaurant walls. Together, they’re developing a new line of in-house products, including pasta sauces and a spicy chili oil, set to launch in early 2026 — with more to follow later that year.
After more than two decades, one thing hasn’t changed: Dimmi remains a place where great food, family, and friendship come together — just as they always have.
Ready To Dine At Dimmi?
Please call us at the number below to make a reservation.
416.975.1100
