Ah...the frustration of planning to dine at one restaurant, and learning that it was closed that particular day, then the beauty instead of finding and dining at another restaurant, discovering a "Gem in a strip mall." The quoted saying is mine, so coined whenever during my "View From the Center" column for Hitzel's Restaurant Magazine I would search for, and find, a new dining spot, many of them in the confines of a shopping plaza. Il Panino Pizzeria (244 Route 46 East, Fairfield, New Jersey, 973-227-6200, www.ilpaninopizzerianj.com) was that place recently. Lucky us. Very nice people at the helm of a family owned eatery, also proprietors of an Italian deli a few doors down, and readying a new private dining room soon to come. Anthony Cicchetti, a Johnson & Wales of Rhode Island graduate, is the Executive Chef and owner since October 2016. As previously mentioned above, expansion is coming and is eagerly anticipated. We will return. The photo above is of the New Jersey Slammer ($8.95), and it can -- and did -- get messy. Between the bun are a cheesesteak, bacon, mozzarella sticks, French fries, and brown gravy. Erin, our very personable server, told me it is ordered by customers often. If you select it, your plate, in a bit of time, may have an untidy appearance. Then again, that's what forks are for, yes? If you can keep New Jersey Slammer intact while eating it, I commend you, but that may mean taking your time to enjoy rather then devouring like a buzz saw. Either way, you're in for a tasty treat. I loved it. Another highlight meal is the cavatelli with broccoli rabe and sausage ($12.95). This is an entrée of a perfectly prepared, generous amount of pasta and "partners." The below-pictured meal is quickly becoming a favorite of the Sears family, even as a shared appetizer at some Italian establishments. Daughter Stefanie chose this for her Sunday afternoon meal. My wife Lucille, an eggplant fanatic, learned from Erin that Anthony Cicchetti slices his eggplant thin, and that revelation encouraged her to have it with a side of penne with meat sauce. Well done - her choice and his meal prep.
And here may be a first: we had no leftovers to take home. Consider this a testament to the cuisine. It should be noted here that, should you be a first time or return visitor to Il Panino Pizzeria, the chef has indicated on the menu which selections are his special recommendations. Just look for the white chef's hat and be prepared to choose between your favorites and his. Call it a "fun dilemma with a happy ending." Steve
2 Comments
Gina
2/2/2018 12:09:55 pm
Thank you so much Steve ... I truly appreciate your comments . And I'm so very happy that you and your lovely family enjoyed your meal . Hope you see you soon . Gina
Reply
2/2/2018 12:18:27 pm
Hi Gina --
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorAppetizers, hospitality, small plates - the best in dining! Archives
January 2023
Categories |