DINING OUT ... WITH FRIENDS AT
GIORGIO ' S ITALIAN GRILL & PIZZERIA
by Mike Sanchez Photos by Mike Sanchez and Mia Shlapfer
Penne Calabrese Pasta
slice and Mark still had some to take home . Mark ’ s beverage of choice is usually water . He stayed true and handled that pizza like a pro . However , a red wine or beer of your choice will also be excellent choices to pair with this classic pie .
Deb went big . She ordered the Penne Calabrese Pasta ( a D ’ Ambrosio family recipe made with sweet Italian sausage and fresh mushrooms in a light tomato cream sauce tossed with penne pasta ) it was hearty and flavorful . The pasta was perfectly done , and the flavors were amazing . The mushrooms worked to darken the flavor of the light tomato cream sauce , giving the dish an extra layer of complexity .
For research purposes , I did something I never do : I ordered the Bacon Wrapped Scallops ( Served with a trio of sauces over risotto & fresh vegetable ). The risotto was nicely prepared , the scallops were seared to provide a crispy yet tender exterior , and bacon . Hello . It was also a very hearty dish . I had to box half my plate . I am a meat guy , so ordering scallops is a huge departure . To be honest , the bacon was a lure , and for some reason it seemed like a good idea . In the end , it was a great idea and I recommend them . A lighter red wine ( pinot to a lighter Sangiovese ) or a beer of choice pairs best due to the seared finish
and bacon . That ’ s stated , I wouldn ’ t hesitate to pair a buttery white wine for research ’ s sake .
By the end of the main courses , were where all pretty content . In the spirit of sharing , we ordered tiramisu ( Ladyfingers , rum & espresso , with sweet mascarpone cream ) and cannoli ( Crispy fried pastry shell stuffed with sweetened ricotta cheese and chocolate chips ). These classic desserts , accompanied by a nice cup of coffee , were a fitting end to a great meal and great time . These are easy recommendations ! Next time I ’ m at Giorgio ’ s , you can count on me to take on the fudge brownie a la mode .
At the end of the evening , it was fun to head out the door and watch Mark and Sue as residents approached to say hello , shake hands , and wish them well . What a great community .
Giorgio ’ s service , food , family-friendly environment , great staff , and of course , a Sanchez-Turner night out in Morgan Hill … wow . Get to Giorgio ’ s for family-friendly , casual Italian fare . You will have a great experience .
Manga !
Cannoli Tiramisu
66 WINTER 2023 gmhTODAY Magazine gmhtoday . com