Former ‘Sopranos’ star, East Rockaway resident cooking up some favorites

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Joe Gannascoli is perhaps best known for his recurring role as Vito Spatafore in the hit HBO drama “The Sopranos.” But on Jan. 17, he was spotted in a different role, serving as a tableside chef at Matteo’s of Roslyn.

“Customers loved it,” said Christina Sbarra, who does the marketing for Matteo’s.

Gannascoli, a 58-year-old East Rockaway resident, also works as a chef four days a week at Vincent's Clam Bar in Carle Place and on Sundays at an Italian restaurant called Tazzina in Forest Hills, Queens. He had previously worked in restaurants in Manhattan, New Orleans and Los Angeles, and is now being hired as a chef for private parties.

“I was a trained chef,” Gannascoli explained. “Growing up, I just sort of gravitated towards cooking.”

In addition to his role in “The Sopranos,” Gannascoli has appeared in “Men in Black 3,” and also had guest roles on “Law & Order” and the USA Network series “White Collar.” He also has several projects in the works for 2018.

One of the patrons at Matteo’s of Roslyn on the night Gannascoli appeared was actor Burt Young, who is known for playing Paulie Pennino in the “Rocky” film series, and stopped to pose for pictures with the actor-turned-chef.

In addition to cooking and acting, Gannascoli said that he is also working toward other ventures, including selling his pre-made healthy meals, called “Once a Chef” at grocery stores across Long Island. The dishes will include pesto with spinach and kale and healthy sauces, including a vinaigrette. They will be on sale at Stew Leonard’s, Uncle Giuseppe’s, Shop Rite and at Iavarone Brothers in March.