Since opening its doors in December of 2005, Poppy Hill Tuscan Kitchen www.ciaopoppyhill.com, located in Fredericksburg, Virginia's beautiful historic district, has earned a loyal following with its made-from-scratch, northern Italian Cuisine. Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Scott Mahar (Executive Chef) and Ingrid Mahar (General Manager and Wine Director), the increasingly popular restaurant keeps patrons returning again and again by offering authentic dishes which feature only the freshest local ingredients, gracious guest service, and a top-notch, continually evolving wine list - all at a reasonable price point.

The seasonal menu at Poppy Hill reflects the Tuscan dishes created by Mahar's Italian grandfather, who would showcase at family meals a variety of fresh ingredients from his own gardens. Growing up on such savory fare has today translated into Mahar’s own unique, impressive cooking style.

"Italians just have a passion for food and wine, and that lifestyle really made a lasting impact on me," Mahar explains. This statement is reflected in his tempting menu, where dishes such as house-made pasta created from semolina flour and local organic eggs are offered. A few of the most popular items on the menu include Mahar's classic Duck Cacciatore, flavorful Wild Boar Bolognese, and – staying true to his New England roots - fresh Shrimp and Scallops in Vodka Sauce. Guests know they can count on the eatery's seasonal menu to always reflect the best ingredients each month has to offer.

Poppy Hill Tuscan Kitchen's sterling wine list includes an extensive list of fine Italian wines from Sicilian and Tuscan provinces, which perfectly complement the restaurant’s savory fare. In a nod toward the increasingly influential Green movement, guests also can choose from a variety of highly regarded, chemical-free and organic wines. Poppy Hill's seasonal wine dinners always attract capacity crowds, and with good reason. As Ingrid notes, "Quality service and fine wine are a vital part of any dining experience."

Both Scott and Ingrid actively give back to their northern Virginia community by participating in a wide variety of charity and outreach events. Through multiple donations and fundraisers for organizations such as the SPCA, the Mary Washington Hospital, and a variety of local schools, the owners of Poppy Hill Tuscan Kitchen have firmly established themselves as a couple who not only care about the quality of the food and wine they serve, but also about the community which has embraced their thriving culinary business.

To request an interview with Chef Scott Mahar, contact Jen Beltz at Ph: 207.699.5500 or jen@frontburnerpr.com