Founded in April 2020 in honor of Vito Biancardi, father of Casa Belvedere Founder Gina Biancardi, Nonno’s Garden has become a vibrant space for learning, sharing gardening knowledge, and meeting fellow garden enthusiasts. Nestled on the hillside overlooking New York Bay, the garden is a testament to the traditions of farming and gardening that have thrived on this site since the early 1900s.

Our dedicated volunteers and Foundation staff maintain the garden, growing a variety of vegetables, flowers, and herbs in the classic Italian kitchen garden tradition. During your visit, you’ll learn about the heritage vegetables such as zucchini flowers, heirloom peppers, and Italian beans, lovingly cultivated from seeds passed down through generations.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the garden’s history, from its origins to its role in supporting educational programs and local community initiatives. You’ll also hear about our partnership with The Belvedere Club and our efforts to support a local Staten Island food pantry.