About us

Innovating for a global palate since 1993. Mounsif Ghninou, owner of Al Dente’s, started his culinary journey in 1990, working in Boston’s North End as a Chef in an authentic Italian restaurant what is today known as Trattoria II Panino in Boston's famous Italian section known as The North End on Hanover Street. Then, opening his own restaurant as Executive Chef at Cafe Mediterraneo in Portsmouth, NH since 1993!! Combining the Italian flavors from New York and New Jersey with Chef Jason makes a great traditional Italian flare.

In 1993 Mounsif and Adel Semmar opened Cafe Mediterraneo, a small 40-seat Italian bistro located on Fleet Street in downtown Portsmouth. 9 years later they expanded into adjacent space to bring the seating capacity to 65. The Italian bistro has been described as bringing the flavor of the North End to Portsmouth. In 1997 and '98, Cafe Med earned Yankee Magazine's Editor's Pick award, and for five years it's been No. 1, topping the "Best of the Best" list for Italian in a national independent survey.

After moving to Florida, owners Mounsif and Christine Ghninou decided to bring the flavors of Boston's North End by beginning their culinary journey once again with Al Dente's Ristorante Italiano.