When modern socializing keeps us distant from face to face interaction, special moments like walking into a classic Italian restaurant with leather seating and wood furniture, brings you back to a simpler time. It’s easy to keep your phone faced down in a welcoming environment with food that you’ll crave.
To start, mussels and calamari of course. The mussels were tossed in a white wine sauce with cherry tomatoes, garlic, parsley and served with two sliced of toasted bread. I could not get enough of the sauce. The saltiness of the mussels and savory sweet taste of white wine and tomatoes went so well with my glass of chardonnay. I don’t think I said much before completely inhaling the Cozze Al Vino Bianco.
I’ve never had calamari and artichoke together but despite my reluctance, I’m glad I gave it a try. The batter and texture of the Carciofi Fritti + Fritto di Calamari, was light, crispy and airy. The artichoke was soft, not mushy, flavorful and a pleasant surprise.
If you read my last post reviewing Il Brigante you know I love sweet italian sausage and broccoli rabe. I ordered the, Pappardelle pasta, tossed with sweet Italian sausage, braised endive, porcini mushrooms, herbs and my fave, truffle sauce, the Pappardelle con Salsiccia. Look how delicious!
For dessert, the Principessa. A super soft lemon sponge cake with a layer of vanilla pastry creme and whipped cream, topped with almond marzipan. Can I be honest? I only like lemon cake plain or with whipped cream frosting.
The true cherry on top was the service and laughs I shared with Mina DiPalma, Felice general manager. The food, service, and atmosphere was refreshing and I had to let her know that I will becoming back.
I was gifted a bottle of this delicious olive oil exclusively sold at Felice. Not meant for cooking, I wonder how many recipes I can come up with or try. Let me know in the comments section below what you’d do with this bad boy or what you’d like to see me try!