DON LORENZO'S KEEPS THE FOOD COMING IN A UNIQUE AND SATISFYING DINING EXPERIENCE
Pacing. Keep that in mind when you decide to take part in the unique dining experience that is offered at Don Lorenzo's, the restaurant at 242 Glen Cove Avenue in Glen Cove (next to Super 7)). Opened this past June by Dave Murano, and his two principal investors, Don Chiappetta and Lorenzo Bilello, the restaurant is difficult to categorize, but most closely resembles family style Italian.
Upon entering the restaurant, you will most likely be greeted by the very friendly Mr. Mauro, who will lead you through the open bar area and into one of two relatively large rooms. Don't expect a menu - there is none. Things here work a bit differently, as the waiter, gauging the customers' tastes based on their responses to a few questions, will deliver a multi-course meal from salad and appetizers through pasta and meat dishes, and concluding with dessert. The $42 fixed price experience ($21 for kids) begins with a light mixed green salad topped with mandarin oranges, cucumber, and a vinaigrette that enhances rather than overwhelms the greens. From there the waiter will bring out any number of appetizers which may include eggplant stuffed riceballs, baked clams, stuffed artichoke leaves, and fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinegar. The main course offerings are varied and include both pasta and meat dishes. The basa fish over carrot mashed potatoes is especially good as is a melange of roasted chicken, sausage, potatoes and mushrooms and the chicken parmesan. For the pasta dishes, both the chicken and mushroom over penne with a cream sauce and the Cavatelli Bolognese are outstanding. And then there are the desserts. All homemade, the assortment appeals to a variety of tastes, and include a napoleon pastry, an icebox cake of graham crackers, banana custard and chocolate, and fried Oreos. Most nights, there is live music, featuring a variety of acts including singer/musician/entertainer Peter Mio who performs a mix of soft rock and classic tunes. Mr. Mauro, is a risk taker, who has tried his hand as a teacher, a stand-up comedian (if you're lucky perhaps he will create a balloon sculpture or baffle you with a card trick), and now a restaurateur. Hopefully, he sticks with his current endeavor. Remember - pacing. BACK TO WEEKLY |
