Traditionally, Italian is a cuisine that's "difficult to f*** up," as my friend Ryan would say. But there's a strong distinction between "good Italian food" and "great Italian food". Ristorante Vespa, found off of East Franklin Street, is an example of the latter.The place itself is charming and quaint, filled with Italian movie posters of American films, maroon curtains, and plenty of Greco-Roman style mirrors. Upon entrance, it's clear that the place has class. Easily the most striking aspect of the restaurant is the service. Upon finishing your water, it is IMMEDIATELY (and I mean immediately) refilled. The food was prompt, and so was the check.
As to the food, I sampled 4 main courses and 1 appetizer (as our party engaged in, "ooh that looks good" kind of dining). The appetizer was the Scotatta: fried mozzarella wrapped in procuitto with tomatoes and red peppers. Too small of a portion, but delicate and delicious. My main course was the Penne al Fumo which was outstanding. The pink sauce was light but strongly flavorful and the pasta was perfect. Other dishes I tried were the Gnocchi Sorrentino, a chicken dish (which I have forgotten the name of) which were both good and the lamb shank, which was dry and dissapointing. Overall, authentic and very satifying.
Pricing was reasonable, and I paid $14.00 for the main course. We opted not to do dessert, but the menu looked excellent.
MY RATING:
Very good Italian, and easily the best I have seen on Franklin. Could use a more consistent serving style and to master the meat dishes (eg. the lamb). Overall, reccomended for a upscale dining experience.
It was such goooood food, but better than even that was the company!
ReplyDeleteI'm hungry now...
ReplyDeleteThe chicken dish was Saltimbocca, and it was definitely decent, but not outstanding. Underspiced, I think. The pasta was outstanding, though - certainly better than P&P, and probably better than 411 West.
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