Sospeso
The name Sospeso comes from Caffè Sospeso, which literally means "suspended coffee." This is a Neapolitan practice of anonymously paying for a coffee ahead for someone else in need. We love carrying on the tradition as we believe “Caffè Sospeso” is a symbol of generosity and true local community.
Inspired by the recipes of our grandparents and the sun-drenched countries along the Mediterranean Sea, we choose fresh local ingredients to prepare simple and modern artisan dishes with beautifully defined flavors. The Mediterranean influenced dishes are perfect to gather around with friends. Mezze of taverns, expertly crafted espresso & house-made vermouth are Sospeso’s signature offerings. A seamless blend of original history and modern rustic design, Sospeso’s natural light-soaked industrial space evokes a refined dining experience with a unique sense of the comforts of the Mediterranean.
The Team
Michael Rosato
Partner, Chef & Wine Director
Michael Rosato, a restaurant industry veteran, third Generation Southern Italian, has brought his love for coffee, food, & wine into Sospeso. Sospeso is simply his second home that he shares some of his favorite things in life, like food, coffee, & amari. He crafts each batch of vermouth himself using over a dozen different aromatics. “I love seeing peoples eyes light up once they taste the vermouth.” Through his 17+ years of experience in the industry working with some of the top local chefs and restaurateurs, he has gained an extensive knowledge in wine. His wine list is unique and dynamic featuring obscure varietals & natural wine that local regulars are happy to discover.
Hatice C. Rosato
Partner, Marketing and Events
Self proclaimed momprenuer Turkish native, Hatice Rosato has moved to DC to get her college Degree in International Business and Marketing. She and her partner, Michael Rosato, made H street their home in 2011. Opening Sospeso in 2017, her goal was to create a space for her friends and neighbors to enjoy for their celebrations. She has coordinated hundreds of both public and private events until the mandatory shut down due to Covid-19. Navigating through the pandemic, she has created a little market where you can buy locally made products, and prepackaged house made specialties along with food and wine.
“The restaurant, named for the Italian concept of paying-it-forward, is trying to bring the feel of a Mediterranean cafe where guests are free to let lunch blur into dinner. ( Washington City Paper) ”
“..the dinner menu at Mediterranean restaurant Sospeso boasts about 15 vegan or vegetarian dishes, like vegan kofte made with lentil and bulgur instead of lamb. ( Washington City Paper) ”
“Named for a Neapolitan practice that loosely translates to “suspended coffees” (it refers to paying it forward by buying another patron’s cup), this shop on H Street is a cute cafe by day, and a serious Mediterranean restaurant by night. ( The 10 Best Coffee Shops in DC- Conde Nast Traveler) ”