Solstice is a lively neighborhood eatery located in a beautifully renovated 19th century train station in the heart of Kingston Center. Opened in 2003 by husband and wife John and Hollie Cataldi, Solstice has earned a reputation of providing innovative cuisine using the freshest products available with a never compromising attitude.
Our approach is simple. We have a passion for pure flavor, quality ingredients, and for creating an atmosphere that is convivial, approachable, and a haven for people that simply love food. From conversation and laughter in our lively bar to our stylish dining room surrounded by antique brick, you’ll come to understand why Solstice is one of the most popular restaurants on the South Shore.
Meet the Kitchen
Chef/Owner John Cataldi
Born in Boston and raised on the South Shore John developed his passion for food by working in his family’s restaurants and learning the traditions of his southern Italian roots. Literally hanging on his father’s apron strings from a young age John worked in the family business until the day his father suggested he broaden his horizons (and palate) by enrolling at the Culinary Institute of America (Hyde Park, NY) from which he graduated in 1992.
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The CIA experience fueled John’s desire to become a top-notch chef and he soon began his career on the west coast. John landed in San Francisco working for acclaimed chef Ruggero Gadaldi of Beretta, Starbelly and Delarosa as well as apprenticing in Larkspur for chef/author Bradley Ogden of Lark Creek Inn and One Market fame. It was under the tutelage of these chefs that John started honing his skills and developing his own style of cooking that would separate his past from what would be his future.
John would eventually return east and in 1998 became the executive chef at the American Bounty Restaurant (now Nantucket Yacht Club) on Nantucket Island. After his first summer season John took over the business operations of “The Bounty” and he earned the reputation of “New Chef on the block” (Inquirer and Mirror, Nantucket). Locals and vacationers alike quickly discovered John’s cooking and the small restaurant was now on the map. Soon to follow would be a Zagat rating, glowing reviews in Yankee Traveler and Cape Cod Living magazines and a coveted spot on the Nantucket Wine Festival rotation.
When the “Old Train Station” in Kingston center became available, John and his new bride Hollie decided it was time to come home. After purchasing the historic building and a yearlong renovation, Solstice opened in September of 2003 with John manning the stoves and Hollie running the front of the house. Since day one Solstice gained an avid following in the area. Introducing global flavors and their unique take on American classics has provided Solstice and its staff much deserved success. The Boston Globe, Boston Magazine, Wine Spectator, The Patriot Ledger, T.V. Diner, The Duxbury Clipper, The Mariner newspapers and South Shore Living have all agreed that Solstice is among the finest restaurants south of Boston.
John lives in Kingston with his wife Hollie, son Graeme and two Labradors Wallace and Maggie.