DA LAPOSTA - Key Persons
da LaPosta General Manager James Shimko is a newcomer to Boston. The Pittsburgh native arrived in late 2019, accompanying his girlfriend who moved here for a new job. The couple's culinarily named cats-Noodles and Roast Beast-came along for the ride.
Shimko has worked in the restaurant business since he was a teenager. "I grew up in the hospitality industry, so I feel very connected to all the working parts," he says. "I am super interested in the ever-evolving industry and how to stay relevant while also remaining authentic.
Shimko was drawn to da LaPosta because of Owner and Chef Mario LaPosta's commitment to serving autentica cucina Italiana-the kind of ingredient-centric, less-is-more cuisine you'd find in restaurants in Italy. "I am inspired by Chef Mario's passion for cooking and his love for pizza," he says. "We want to serve authentic food-high quality dishes and drinks that stay true to classic Italian roots-to friends and families (looking to) come together for a good time."
"Of course, you want excellent service, excellent food, superb ambiance and a team who is passionate and motivated about the same things you are," he continues. "I also believe that authenticity and transparency about what you're serving, and how you're serving it has a huge importance."
When he's not working, James checks out the Boston restaurant scene and travels (he just returned from a trip to Iceland, Finland, and Estonia). An avowed Pittsburgh Stealers fan, Shimko is about to be baptized into the uniquely Boston culture of rabid sports fandom.