OK, I have visitors from fly-over country who think Macaroni Grill and Olive Garden are all that and more. How do I impress them with their first "real" Italian feast and not break the bank? Del Posto, Babbo, Lupa, Otto - all Mario Masterpieces but out of scope for the budget. Becco - definitely in my price range but location, location, location. Ahhhh, the Village. Carmine Street - yes, a mini Italian oasis in a sea of pretenders.
I selected 50 Carmine based on word of mouth (pun intended) and foodie reviews. I made my reservation and kept my fingers crossed.
Good news - My guests (there were 10 of us) were greeted and treated like royalty. The room - soft lights, exposed brick and "see and be seen window tables" -was very nice. Classic Village ambiance. Please consider that a compliment.
The crusty bread served with a decent, flavorful olive oil was noshed as we surveyed the menu.
For appetizers we had pan fried calamari (best I have had since Venice), fresh mozzarella, sinfully rich with good tomatoes, basil and red pepper, fried artichoke hearts, sweet as candy and a reason enough to eat here and a cold mushroom dish - Polenta and Mixed Mushrooms Ragu - that I felt was the weakest offering.
For the main dishes, my crew had a nice selection, expertly described by our waiter. First, the branzino - generally regarded as a winner by the 3 people who ordered it - was fresh and cooked by someone who cares and knows about fish. Ossobuco - so tender that the term "like buttah" is appropriate - was described as "outstanding." And the scallops, pasta and asparagus (my dish) was a feast for my taste buds. The scallops were just amazing - every bite was a trip to fantasy land.
The food was so good that people in my party have already made reservations for themselves and their significant others this weekend.
We had a couple of decent bottles of red wine. Fresh and fruity and fairly prices at $35.
If you love Italian food, prepared by a smart chef and served by a classy wait staff, try 50 Carmine.
Possibly my new favorite Italian restaurant.
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