Chef Zharko Palushaj
La Strada Italian Kitchen & Bar
La Strada Italian Kitchen and Bar is one of the most highly regarded authentic Italian restaurants in downtown Birmingham. The restaurant opened in late 2015 and is owned and operated by restaurateur and chef Zharko Palushaj. Chef Palushaj began developing his concept way back in the 90s. He was named Restaurateur of the Year by Hour Magazine. Chef Palushaj’s extensive experience in the restaurant industry is well-known to his loyal customers, family, and the broader community. Chef Palushaj has been at the forefront of the industry since opening his first restaurant, Mezzaluna Italian Kitchen, in 2000. Additionally, he served as the managing partner and creative force behind Tri Monti, an upscale dining establishment inspired by the renowned signature club of San Marino, in 2013. His career commenced at Pagliacci’s in Yonkers, NY where he partnered with Giuseppe Pratarelli. He is of Albanian descent and hails from Montenegro, where he pursued studies in hotel and restaurant management. In Italy, he refined his craft alongside Italian chefs with a reputation for excellence, perfecting techniques and mastering traditional northern Italian cuisine. He brought his passion for authentic Italian recipes and traditions to New York, where he found the inspiration and opportunities he was seeking in the culinary industry. His aspirations were fulfilled when he launched the highly regarded Mezzaluna in Michigan. There, he was discovered, and his clientele became like family, eager to try their own family recipes that evoke childhood memories. Chef-Owner Zharko Palushaj comes from a family with a profound passion for culinary arts and agriculture. His family owned a vineyard, which provided him with invaluable experience. His father and younger brother began producing their first homemade wine from the sweet grapes of the Adriatic coast, Palushaj Vineyards Wine, their family’s homemade cheeses, and the Balkan favorites of pickled tomato, peppers, and various honey. Chef Palushaj will continue to prepare the most authentic Italian dishes for his guests and provide a family-friendly atmosphere where everyone enjoys each other over their favorite pasta. His dedication and passion for the culinary arts will never cease to bring to the table the flavor of Mediterranean warmth to his guests at La Strada Italian Kitchen & Bar.
