Obituary of Ernest Salandria

Ernest Anthony Salandria (Ernie), 60, of Cape May Court House, NJ, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2020. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Ernie graduated from Central High in 1977. His boyhood summers were spent vacationing in Greece with family which gave him a great interest in European history and culture. His family’s rich Italian heritage lead him to open, Ernesto’s 1521 Café, on Spruce St, one of center city’s premier restaurants. Many of his memories were spent working side-by-side his extended family at the café, where the family’s most cherished recipes soon became legendary fare to his grateful and loyal patrons. In later years, he traveled to Tuscany every August, accompanied by family and often joined by a few of his many friends. These forays fostered a keen appreciation of Tuscan and regional Italian cuisine as well as inspiring his collection of Barolo wines. Ernie will be remembered with fondness for his genuine warmth and quick-wit. His kindness and amazing generosity touched so many. He remained a loud and proud fan of the Philadelphia eagles to the end. Although his life had ups and downs, he never lost sight of what was most important: the love and well being of his family and friends. Ernie had a big personality and an even bigger heart. His loss is great and he will be missed by family, friends and patrons who loved him dearly. He is survived by his father, Vincent Salandria, aunt, Immie Feldman, cousin, Vince Feldman ( Kaori ), nephew Kai and niece, Yuma (all of Phila). He is predeceased by his mother Livia Corman (nee Ciancaglini). A memorial service will be planned at a future date.