Business Philosophy

Our business is here to fashion and create the finest restaurant in Erie while specializing in Authentic Italian Cuisine and using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients in preparing each entrée to order.

 
Each dish is made from scratch from the freshest ingredients when you order it--not from pre-made sauces out of a bag!

Chef Matthew has taken much time and effort using his 35 years of experience to create a culinary delight for our customers. In understanding this artistic talent, we do not incorporate substitutions or omissions of ingredients from our menus. We believe that each dish is a delicate creation; to omit or substitute an ingredient would change the chemistry and palatability of the dish.

Our History and Passion

The history of Matthew’s Trattoria & Martini Lounge starts with Chef Matthew’s origins in the culinary arts, over 35 years ago. To create his own unique taste and presentation, he leased the dining space at the La Nuova Aurora Club in Erie's "Little Italy." He and his wife Cynthia opened their doors on April 6, 1996. Matthew’s Trattoria was born with intimate memories for those who attended the small and rustic space.

Cindy and Chef Matthew stand in the dining room of the old La Nuova Aurora Club. The space was a rustic and humble setting for Matthew's extraordinary creations which would soon find a new home in Erie's renovated Lovell Manufacturing complex.

 



Although rustic and humble, the space provided Matthew, an Erie native, the opportunity to establish a loyal and enthusiastic following. One of their early patrons approached them about moving the business into a more appropriate setting at Erie's renovated Lovell Manufacturing complex--renamed Lovell Place. Contract agreements were arranged, drawings and ideas were set underway by renowned Cleveland architect Tim Mulle and associates, to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience in Erie. After much anticipation, Matthew’s Trattoria & Martini Lounge opened its doors on February 25th, 1999. From that day to the present, we have strived to bring a Big City Metropolitan atmosphere to the Erie area and invite you to join us for a unique dining experience!


The new dining room at Matthew's Trattoria & Martini Lounge features contemporary design elements in an upscale atmosphere with soft lighting and colorful fabrics. It's the perfect backdrop for the Chefs' artistry.

Employment

Matthew's Trattoria & Martini Lounge is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, orientation, or any other legally protected status.

Applications can be picked up and completed in person Tuesdays through Thursdays between the hours of 3:00 and 5:00pm. Please be prepared for a possible interview when completing applications.

We seek and hire talented, well-mannered and enthusiastic individuals, preferably (but not necessarily) with prior restaurant experience. Please call ahead to inquire what positions are currently available.

Because we expect the utmost in dedication, loyalty and trust from our employees, background checks are typically run on candidates for all positions, and references are regularly checked. The interview process may be rigorous, if only to ensure that job candidates will make a good fit with our company.

Positions (Full- and Part-time)
Please call ahead to inquire about
currently available positions   

Sous Chef
Assistant Sous Chef
Appetizer Chef
Prep/Line Cook
Dish Machine Operator
Cleaning/Maintenance
Food/Beverage Server
Bartender
Busperson
Host/Hostess
Coat Check
Banquet Server

                                       The staff meets everyday to discuss the
                                           evening's specials and review any specific details
                                                           about banquets and reservations