Ashley D.
Yelp
Wow! We were anxious to try this spot since we loved Tucci's -- color us impressed!
We walked in with no reservation and the place was packed! Our wait time was minimal and the owner was taking drink orders, which I love to see. Also, while we waited, they gave us menus to peruse. One, gave us something to do and two, helps speed up service/table flip time since we (pretty much) knew what we wanted when we were seated.
We were seated at a table in the corner on the window-side of the restaurant-- great spot but a bit chilly even though we weren't in front of the window! We both sat facing the restaurant so we could take it all in. After talking through the updated tables and placement, paint colors and lighting, we conclude they really thought everything through!
Our server was wonderful -- timely but not hovering, and gave great suggestions.
Upon being sat, we were presented with complimentary bruschetta. Although it looked like there was less greenery than the original Tucci's version, it was just as great! Three of our toasts were super solid. The one that had a little chew, we shared. Yummy!!
We ordered the Saffron Arancini for appetizer - whoa. We weren't sure what to expect but it's the perfect fusion of Mediterranean and Italian. The creamy yogurt sauce with a hint of tartness paired magically with the warm decadence of the arancini crispness and filling. Add the brightness of the cucumber and heirloom tomatoes - delizioso!
Up next, we split a side Sapori salad with the classic Tucci's lemonade dressing. Let me tell you: I wish I could buy this dressing. If you're not into tangy/tart things, this is not for you. However, highly recommend.
For our entrees, we had the three-cheese ravioli with salmon and the penne a la vodka with grilled chicken.
Ravioli: massive round pillows with a delicious, creamy cheese blend. The sauce is very good, with an added bonus of capers. Would have liked the option of shredded parm here! The shrimp were okay - one of them was slightly undercooked.
Penne: well-cooked pasta, same sauce as the ravioli. Lots of parm added in the kitchen. The chicken was good. I wished it would be come at least pre-sliced -- I had to transfer it to a plate to cut. I get the risk of losing moisture, but if it has rested for a minute, the quick slice and deliver could work? :-)
We also ordered a side of broccolini - it was good but we don't think it was grilled.
For dessert, we tried the special, carrot cake. Presentation was great but we were a tad disappointed. The cake was a bit tough and dry. It was overpowered a bit by the sweet buttercream on top. There was a cream cheese icing in the center that was yummy -- I would have used that on the top, too! In our eyes, if you order carrot cake, you're not going to something super sweet?
Overall, I give our visit a 9.2 -- we will ABSOLUTELY be back.
Bravo, Sapori team!