The wife and dine out frequently, I have spent a significant amount of time in Italy and this food will make me brave the ride down Central again. I was a little worried when we got there as we got the previously critiqued \"table for two by the patio door\". Fortunately for us, most of the meal went by with an empty patio, so no worries...more on that later.\n\nFor starters the bread is fantastic! I understand the owners also have a deli which makes perfect sense. We ordered some stuffed mushroom/zucchini appetizer (not on the on line menu) and it was absolutely wonderful. The mushrooms were well cooked and the stuffing was awesome.The zucchini was covered in a delicious red sauce/mozzarella combination that was equally tasty. \n\nFor dinner, I ordered the Veal Saltimbocca alla Romana. It isn't on their in house menu, but they do make it. It was perfectly sauteed and the Marsala was nicely balanced and did not overpower the tender veal. My wife ordered the Vongola in the white sauce. Her words were \"scrumptious, mmm, ohhhh,\" followed by a huge smile. At this point, she extracted a promise for a return trip.\n\nThe staff is attentive and having the owner come by is the perfect touch. And was that REAL silverware? Of course, the complimentary glass of wine he laid on us for accepting the table near the patio door was a bonus. Back to that...If it was me and I had a choice of that table or waiting...I would wait. While for most of our meal, the patio was empty, it did not end that way. The rush of air created a noise and temperature disturbance which would have been irritating if it went on during our entire meal. If you decide that you are starving and can't wait...well don't complain...you've been warned.\n\nThe only reason I am not giving this five stars is the decor. I don't think much consideration has been given to the interior environment in some time. I know that chef is busy and they have a Deli, times are tough, etc...but a little paint and decor update would go a long way.
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