Chef AMY BRANDWEIN
A DECADE OF ITALIAN GASTRONOMY AT CITYCENTERDC
At the heart of CityCenterDC’s culinary scene, Chef Amy Brandwein has created two destinations that define modern Italian dining in Washington: the refined Centrolina and its charming sister café, Piccolina.
A James Beard Award finalist and visionary talent, Brandwein blends tradition with innovation — from white Bolognese to crudo with Sicilian flair — in settings that balance elegance, warmth, and intention.
Meet AMY BRANDWEIN
— AMY BRANDWEIN
PORTRAIT
Amy Brandwein
As Centrolina celebrates its 10th anniversary, Chef Amy reflects on a journey sparked by curiosity and refined under the mentorship of Roberto Donna. Drawn to the soul of Italian cooking — its devotion to region, season, and simplicity — she reimagines classics with fresh perspective: handmade pastas kissed with ripe fruit, swordfish crudo brightened by jalapeño, flavors that feel both timeless and unexpected. Guided by the markets and inspired by Sicily’s sunlit energy, her cooking keeps Centrolina ever-evolving, compelling, and relevant. Just as intentional is the culture she’s nurtured. In her kitchens and dining rooms, collaboration, creativity, and feminine energy set the tone. For Brandwein, true success lies not only in accolades, but in beauty, consistency, and the community she’s built — qualities that have made CityCenterDC the definitive home for Italian gastronomy.
Centrolina
Lunch
Monday-Saturday: 11:30am-2:30pm
Dinner
Monday –Thursday: 5pm–9pm
Friday & Saturday: 5pm–9:30pm
Market
Monday-Sunday: 10pm-8pm
Centrolina will be closed August 10th-17th. The Market will remain open during this time.
