a lower-level dining area , and a twotiered setup under a lofty ceiling that includes an intimate dining room and a visually appealing lounge . But Chef Michele Di Fonte ’ s menu , with its focus on traditional Italian dishes , subverts the expectation set by the white-tablecloth space .
A basket of pillowy pane fritto makes for an ideal entrance to an eating experience sure to require eventual belt-loosening . A gently bronzed exterior and a dusting of sugar imparts a subtle dessert-beforedinner feel . One bite into these clouds of dough reveals a steamy and soft interior begging to be dipped into a delicately sweet house marinara . Select from one of three soups , including a vegetable-laden minestrone in house tomato broth . It ’ s a warm , soul-soothing starter .
Though shareable plates set the tone with the classic comfort one expects , one of the undoubted main attractions include piled-high pastas .
Fettuccine carbonara straddles the line between upscale elegance and old-world charm . Smoky , crumbled bacon rests upon ribbons of al dente fettuccine in a creamy sauce with hints of parmesan . Dashes of pepper and nutmeg enrich the dish . Mozzarella and a fresh tomato basil sauce sing overtop fluffy gnocchi that seemingly melt away .
This is a beloved spot for veal , as five preparations are present , including dishes featuring cream , wine and red sauces . Chicken is also a favourite , and chicken portafoglio is a standout . A deep brown breaded crust conceals tender and juicy chicken breast , though its stuffing of provolone , capicollo , sun-dried tomatoes and basil is what truly enhances the dish with sweet , smoky and sharp profiles . Rich rosé sauce has a lusciousness that acts in harmony with every flavour .
With whatever room remains reserved for dessert , it ’ s impossible to ciao ! reviews
miss with a take on tiramisu – vanilla cake stands in place of ladyfingers – somehow light enough to keep from bursting buttons .
Monticchio is open Sun-Thu 4:30 pm-9 pm and Fri-Sat 4:30 pm-10:30 pm .
PASQUALE ’ S Neighbourhood ... St . Boniface Address ........... 109 Marion St Phone ............ 204-231-1403 Entrées ................... $ 16- $ 26
Red sauce joints are characterized by their wide variety of tomato sauced pasta dishes and casual service . Pasquale ’ s Ristorante Italiano embraces this identity with gusto , offering oodles of noodles along with a strong line up of traditional pizzas .
This St . Boniface spot has been a heavy hitter in the neighbourhood for more than two decades , keeping it real for anyone seeking a simple less extravagant way of dining . Instead , attention is placed on an abundance of hospitality offered to every guest . In today ’ s socially distanced climate , this authenticity feels like a bear hug .
Familiar appetizer staples like antipasto , shrimp and mussels are all here . However , the menu accommodates vegan and gluten free dieters craving comfort dishes too . Vegan meatballs , reminiscent in texture to falafel , are winners sitting in a fresh savoury marinara . Eggplant parmigiana , cannelloni stuffed with spinach and ricotta and spaghetti primavera offer more proof that vegcentric marriages are long term successes in Italian cuisine .
For those seeking the coveted classics of Italy , bold pastas bring intense flavour across the board . Marinara and Bolognese can be enjoyed on spaghetti , ravioli – and a robust meaty lasagna . The tomato , cheese , pasta combinations are alone worth the visit .
Venturing past the red gravies in favour of something white rewards too . Fettucine can be coated with sweet marsala or sambuca and chili infused cream over a shrimp medley . Spaghetti carbonara delivers beautiful salty bits of prosciutto and green peas in its cheesy cream sauce . Fettucine pollo lemon combines large slices of chicken breast with mushrooms and asparagus in subtle limoncello and garlic cream . Hits of lemon zest brighten the luscious concoction .
This eatery is an equally popular pizzeria . Thin crust with cracker like crispness earns it fans city-wide . A variety of house combinations have established popularity : Whether the choice is loads of veggies Mediterranean style , lots of meat , or roasted chicken , caramelized onions and bacon over a barbeque sauce , fresh ingredients generously top each pie .
Go all in and factor a slice of the berry red topped raspberry lemon torte as a final course – it is the perfect blend of sweet , tart and light .
Pasquale ’ s is open from Tues 4 pm-9 pm , Wed-Thurs 11 am-9 pm , Fri 11 am-10 pm and Sat 4 pm-10 pm .
TRE VISI CAFE Neighbourhood ......... Corydon Address .... 926 Grosvenor Ave Phone ............ 204-475-4447 Entrées ................... $ 15- $ 28
Though its red-bricked exterior and well-windowed walls are unassuming , a contemporary world of upscale Italian classics awaits through the doors at Tre Visi Cafe .
Simplicity reigns in its decoration as muted tones are enlivened with a burgundy accent wall popping colour . The menu is seemingly much
34 ciao ! / oct / nov / two thousand twenty