If you're a fan of Italian food (who isn't?) then you're well aware that New York's real "Little Italy" is located in the Bronx. Mulberry Street had a good run but the reign is over. The other boros also have thier own versions of "Little Italy" but they pale in comparison to Arthur Ave & 187th St, otherwise known as the Belmont area of the Bronx. The place just keeps getting better and better. Great new restaurants and cafes are opening all the time. That's worked out great for me because all I have to do is walk outside my door to find some of the best Italian goods in NYC.
That brings me to my latest find, Antonio's Trattoria. Located across the street from the old home of Roberto's (the neighborhoods most popular restaurant) Antonio's is as easy going as it is delicious. When you walk in you’re greeted by an eager and friendly hostess ready to seat you and start your nite out with a smile. The cherry wood finish of Antonio's gives it a nice classy feel, complimented by the wonderful voice of Sinatra playing softly through the sound system. Obviously major points with me.
Our waiter was efficient and courteous. Never hovering but always available. Nothing worse than your waiter never paying your table attention or when they give you so much attention you feel like you have to add another place setting. Our food arrived promptly and drinks were always ready. The owners of the joint were very friendly and made a point of making sure we were happy with our experience. So much so that the manager was kind enough to send us over a free treat. Now that's service.
I had a few glasses of the house pinot grigio to go along with one of the best pork chop dishes I've ever had the pleasure of eating. Grilled to perfection and garnished with sautéed onions, spinach, and "sauce" as they call it in the neighborhood. I shared a 12 inch rugatina pizza which was topped with sausage, portabello mushrooms, smoked mozzarella and basil. If that doesn't make you hungry then you're just weird or hate yourself.
My group shared a number of delicious appetizers. Garlic bread with melted mozzarella, select Italian cold cuts and cheeses, baked clams, mozzarella sticks and portabella mushrooms wrapped in all kinds of deliciousness and fried to boot. Yeah not something Jenny Craig would recommend but this is Italian food.
As for dessert, two words...NUTELLA PIZZA!!!
Soon we were all stuffed like Hansel and Gretel. I was with a large group and everyone was pleased. A couple of my guests are very hard to please but enjoyed Antonio's very much. On our way out we were nicely applauded for our business which is a rarity nowadays. That capped off a wonderful evening in a wonderful new restaurant that I can strongly recommend.
2370 Belmont Ave
Bronx, NY 10458
718.733.6630
2 Chit-Chat:
WILL CHECK IT OUT.
Been there thanks to your site and loved it. The bartender was such a character and made my mother feel young again. Thanks for the recommendation.
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