L'Andana has now opened!
As I mentioned previously, L'Andana is a new Italian grille restaurant in Burlington. Famed Chef Jamie Mammano, who created the Commonwealth Restaurant Group, owns a number of exciting restaurants, including Mistral (French/Mediterranean bistro), Teatro (casual Italian bistro), Sorellina (regional Italian-Mediterranean cuisine), and Mooo (steakhouse). L'Andana is his fifth restaurant.
Chef David Blessing, who has cooked at Mistral and Sorellina, will be the chef de cuisine at L'Andana. It open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. It already has a listing on Open Table where you can make reservations. Though you cannot make reservations for dates before November 15. You can still call for reservations before that date. I should also note that L'Andana's website has little info currently but hopefully will soon.
I had dinner at L'Andana last night. As this was the first night it was open, you cannot expect perfection. They should still be ironing out matters. Generally, it can take up to 2 months for a restaurant to really get into the groove. Their menu will be subject to change during this time. Servers will be acclimating. Thus, allowances have to be given in any reviews.
I like the decor and style of the restaurant. It is elegant with a touch of rustic. The chandeliers look like they are made of a dark wood. There is a bar area, with about 8-10 seats at the bar and several tables for two. The bar seats may be a bit low for some people, maybe shorter people, and the bartender did seem cognizant of that fact. In the dining room, I am unsure whether some of the tables are too close together. As the restaurant was rather quiet, it was difficult to determine how it would look with a full crowd. Overall, I do think it presents a nice ambience.
The restaurant has a full bar, including a list of speciality drinks. The wine list by the glass is short, maybe five whites and five reds, a mix of regions. I would like to see a larger range of options for wines by the glass. Glasses range from $7-10 which is reasonable. I had a glass of the Dolcetto and it was a good wine.
The list by the bottle is fairly extensive, with plenty of Italian wines, including some less common choices. The list also has many California Cabernets and French wines. There are an assortment of wines from other areas as well. Prices tend to be on the higher end, though there are bottles for around $30-35. They also have a fair sized list of half-bottles.
The menu has appetizers, Charcoal Wood-Grilled entrees, a couple Saute entrees, four Pasta dishes (which can be had in two sizes) and two special Sides. Just note that this menu is still subject to change. In general, their prices seem a bit lower than the averages at Mistral and Sorrelina.
There are 10 appetizers, priced $9-18, with an average of about $12. These are salads, soups, mussels, pork belly, tuna and more. There are 8 Charcoal Wood-Grilled entrees, the stars of the menu, including salmon, swordfish, veal chop, several steaks and chicken. Prices range $22-42 with an average of about $35. The 2 Saute dishes include a Veal and a Cod, prices at $32 & 34. There are 4 Pasta dishes, priced at $12-14 for the small size, and $22-26 for the large size. You can get a Spaghetti and Meatballs, yet it is not the norm. The meatballs are made of American Wagyu and it has a Chianti sauce on it.
Before any of my food came, I was brought a couple pieces of bread, slices of a type of rustic loaf. The bread was warm and the top had been brushed with oil and herbs. The bread came with a dish containing oil, a tomato compote and a cooked, whole tomato. This was perfect for smearing on the warm bread and made a nice start.
I began with the Carpaccio: raw sirloin, amarena, gorgonzola picante, rosemary grissini ($15). This came out on a large oval plate which was covered by very thin slices of raw sirloin. Atop the slices were tiny bits of gorgonzola cheese and bits of amarena cherries (an Italian cherry). There were also two thin grissini, breadsticks. This was a tasty dish, the amarena and gorgonzola making a delicious pairing atop the sirloin.
For my entree, I chose the Veal Chop ($42), 16 oz. topped with a chestnut maple butter and with a side of sweet potato polenta. This was certainly a large chop, nicely grilled on the outside but not overdone on the inside. The meat was moist, tender and flavorful. The butter added an intriguing flavor as well. The polenta came in a black cast iron pot, though it seemed more like a pudding than the usually firmer polentas. It was very tasty, smooth and a bit sweet. And there was certainly a large portion of it.
I did order a side of the Truffle Parmesan Fries ($11). This was also a large portion and the fries were very delicious. Plenty of parmesan atop them, the fries were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft inside. Well worth ordering.
There was a list of desserts but my eyes zeroed in on the apple cider donuts with vanilla creme ($9). This consisted of three, home-made donuts with sugar coating them and a dish of vanilla creme for dipping. They were hot and decadently delicious. I was certainly quite stuffed by this point.
Service was very good. The only very minor issues were due to the newness of the restaurant. And they were all matters that I am certain will be cleared up very soon. For example, the menu has been changing so the servers still don't know everything on the menu. And I would not expect them to know the menu perfectly at this point. On any matter that did not involve the newness, they did very well.
Overall, I was very pleased with my experience at L'Andana. The food is plentiful and delicious. Service is very good and the ambience is pleasing. I also expect that matters will only get better and this restaurant is going to become a big hit. I will certainly return, for both lunch and dinner, to try out other menu selections. I definitely recommend that you check out L'Andana, and I expect that reservations will soon be essential.
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
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Saturday, October 27, 2007
Monday, October 22, 2007
L'Andana Opening This Week
I have been keeping an eye on a new Italian restaurant, L'Andana, that was being built in Burlington. As I mentioned previously, famed Chef Jamie Mammano, who created the Commonwealth Restaurant Group, owns a number of exciting restaurants, including Mistral (French/Mediterranean bistro), Teatro (casual Italian bistro), Sorellina (regional Italian-Mediterranean cuisine), and The Federalist (fine French-American cuisine).
L'Andana will be his fifth restaurant and is supposed to be an Italian country grill, a casual elegant dining destination. Chef David Blessing, who has cooked at Mistral and Sorellina, will be the chef de cuisine at L'Andana.
L'Andana will open to the public this Friday, October 26. The restaurant will be open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. It already has a listing on Open Table where you can make reservations. Though you cannot make reservations for dates before November 15. I should also note that L'Andana's website has little info currently but hopefully will soon.
I will be going soon to L'Andana and will report back.
L'Andana will be his fifth restaurant and is supposed to be an Italian country grill, a casual elegant dining destination. Chef David Blessing, who has cooked at Mistral and Sorellina, will be the chef de cuisine at L'Andana.
L'Andana will open to the public this Friday, October 26. The restaurant will be open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. It already has a listing on Open Table where you can make reservations. Though you cannot make reservations for dates before November 15. I should also note that L'Andana's website has little info currently but hopefully will soon.
I will be going soon to L'Andana and will report back.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
L'Andana: More Changes
It has been more than seven weeks since the opening of L'Andana in Burlington. It is about at that point where a new restaurant should start running well, having ironed out nearly all of their initial kinks.
My initial visits to L'Andana had gone quite well, except for some minor service issues. The food was innovative, plentiful and delicious. I was impressed and felt that L'Andana would be a big hit. So how was my latest visit? Has anything changed, either positively or negatively?
First, the menu has undergone some minor revisions, which appears to be partially due to the chef desiring to try new and different dishes. I like the various changes, making sure that the menu never becomes stale. They are more subtle changes, maintaining the basic feel of the cuisine. And some of the new dishes sounded very good.
For example, the Carpaccio is now made from Red Stag venison rather than beef. Very interesting and something I do wish to try. There is a new Cod Saute dish with olive oil whipped potatoes and a white clam sauce. The most changes appear to be with their pasta dishes. For example, the Pappardelle now comes with braised rabbit rather than oxtail.
I started with the Fonduta ($14), a skillet filled with four melted cheeses, thin slices of spicy sopressata, and large pieces of roasted garlic. I also received a large pile of crunchy Tuscan toast. You spread the gooey cheese mixture on the bread and enjoy. I loved the flavor of the cheeses with a nice spicy tone from the sopressata and lots of garlic. The skillet had plenty of the cheese and could easily serve two people.
I also very much enjoyed a small order of a new dish, the Tortellini ($14). This consisted of four over-sized tortellini stuffed with fresh Maine crab, some Mascarpone and chives. The tortellini were in a cured tomato and tarragon broth. These were superb, with lots of sweet crab meat rather than filler. The broth was flavorful and well complimented the tortellini.
The food was still as good as all my previous visits. But what about the service? This time, the service was excellent. Although I had a primary server, additional servers helped out throughout the meal. Everyone worked well together. In my prior visits, the service sometimes got a bit overbearing, such as the water pourer. This time no such problem existed. It appears they have resolved the minor service issues that existed before, as I expected they would.
I am very pleased with how L'Andana has progressed and I continue to highly recommend it. It has become one of my new favorite restaurants. You definitely should give it a try. You won't be disappointed.
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
My initial visits to L'Andana had gone quite well, except for some minor service issues. The food was innovative, plentiful and delicious. I was impressed and felt that L'Andana would be a big hit. So how was my latest visit? Has anything changed, either positively or negatively?
First, the menu has undergone some minor revisions, which appears to be partially due to the chef desiring to try new and different dishes. I like the various changes, making sure that the menu never becomes stale. They are more subtle changes, maintaining the basic feel of the cuisine. And some of the new dishes sounded very good.
For example, the Carpaccio is now made from Red Stag venison rather than beef. Very interesting and something I do wish to try. There is a new Cod Saute dish with olive oil whipped potatoes and a white clam sauce. The most changes appear to be with their pasta dishes. For example, the Pappardelle now comes with braised rabbit rather than oxtail.
I started with the Fonduta ($14), a skillet filled with four melted cheeses, thin slices of spicy sopressata, and large pieces of roasted garlic. I also received a large pile of crunchy Tuscan toast. You spread the gooey cheese mixture on the bread and enjoy. I loved the flavor of the cheeses with a nice spicy tone from the sopressata and lots of garlic. The skillet had plenty of the cheese and could easily serve two people.
I also very much enjoyed a small order of a new dish, the Tortellini ($14). This consisted of four over-sized tortellini stuffed with fresh Maine crab, some Mascarpone and chives. The tortellini were in a cured tomato and tarragon broth. These were superb, with lots of sweet crab meat rather than filler. The broth was flavorful and well complimented the tortellini.
The food was still as good as all my previous visits. But what about the service? This time, the service was excellent. Although I had a primary server, additional servers helped out throughout the meal. Everyone worked well together. In my prior visits, the service sometimes got a bit overbearing, such as the water pourer. This time no such problem existed. It appears they have resolved the minor service issues that existed before, as I expected they would.
I am very pleased with how L'Andana has progressed and I continue to highly recommend it. It has become one of my new favorite restaurants. You definitely should give it a try. You won't be disappointed.
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
Saturday, February 21, 2009
L'Andana: Piattini
When dining out, I enjoy the "small plate" concept, ordering a number of small appetizer dishes to share with my dining companions. These dishes can be inexpensive and you get to try a wide variety of foods. Plus it can be very social or intimate, dependent on who is dining with you. Many cuisines have their own small plate options, such as Spanish tapas or Greek mezze. In Italy, you order piattini, which means "small plate" in Italian.
L'Andana is one of my favorite suburban restaurants and you can find plenty of past reviews on my blog. It generally is on the pricey side, though well worth it. But in these tougher economic times, many people find it more difficult to dine out unless they can find good values. L'Andana understands this and has introduced their own value deals, such as the Piattini Menu at their bar. You definitely should check out this new menu and you won't be disappointed.
Their bar area is fairly spacious, consisting of a long bar plus numerous tables, including a wall length couch. It is a comfortable area and obviously popular. On a Tuesday evening, not when you might expect a crowd, there were plenty of patrons present both at the bar and tables. Though you can also order off the regular menu in the bar, you won't go wrong by trying the Piattini menu.
Like their regular menu, it seems the Piattini menu is subject to change, so there is often something new for you to try. Currently, the menu has 13 small plate options and 3 wood grilled selections. The small plates range from $2-8, most costing $4-$5. The wood grilled selections include two pizzas and a burger, each costing $15-16. I have tried six of the small plates and all of them were excellent, perfectly prepared and spiced.
The Wood Grilled Swordfish ($5) comes with a spicy almond romesco sauce. The two pieces of swordfish were moist and delicious, and the romesco sauce made for a tasty addition. It was spicy but not overly so and the almond flavor was subtle. The Grilled Scallop ($7) was accompanied with truffle whipped potato and topped with a rich, mushroom marsala sauce. Again, the scallops were grilled just right and the marsala sauce was excellent, pairing well with the scallops. The creamy potatoes were also very good and went well with the Marsala.
The Goat Cheese Bruschetta ($5) has a tomato vinaigrette and you receive two long pieces of fresh bread. Along with the creamy goat cheese, there were also slices of cherry tomatoes and the spicy vinaigrette seemed to have balsamic in it. I love goat cheese so this was excellent, the creaminess complementing the acidity of the tomatoes. And L'Andana always has excellent bread, such as their complemetary Ciabatta which starts every meal, including in the bar.
I was thrilled to see that L'Andana had brought back their Lemon Arancini ($4) with tomato brodo. The Arancini used to be on their regular menu and I absolutely loved them so I was disappointed when they were taken off the menu. The arancini now are just as exceptional as they were before. The outside is lightly crunchy and the interior is creamy and flavorful with just the merest hint of lemon. Lemon can sometimes overpower a dish but that does not occur with these arancini. Plus, the tomato brodo sauce is superb and I love to sop up any extra sauce with my bread once the arancini is gone.
The Marsala Glazed Veal Meatballs ($6) with Parmesan polenta has also been on the regular menu, without the polenta. I enjoyed the meatballs before and they were just as good now. The Marsala glaze is quite compelling with firm, veal meatballs. The creamy polenta was also very good with a strong cheesy flavor. The Grilled Rosemary & Lemon Steak Spiedini ($5) was another dish where the lemon flavor was very restrained, and thus just right. The three pieces of tender beef had the right combination of spices, making it quite delicious.
The Spicy Mediterrnean Fish Stew ($8) is the most expensive small plate but it would be a misnomer to call it small. There were loads of seafood in this dish, including clams, mussels, fish, calamari and baby octopus. Plus, a light and spicy tomato-based broth. All of the seafood was very tender and the combination of flavors was a delight. I even got to try one of their pizzas, the Margherita Pizza ($15) which comes with fresh mozzarella, pomodoro, and basil. The pizza has a very thin crust and I very much enjoyed it, especially the fresh mozzarella.
Service, as usual, was excellent. This was a superb meal, with an abundance of delicious flavors and perfectly prepared. The prices are very reasonable for the quantity and quality of food you receive. They would make a nice little snack if you were having a drink, or even a complete meal if you were so inclined. I will definitely be back for more Piattini and hope to see you there.
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
L'Andana is one of my favorite suburban restaurants and you can find plenty of past reviews on my blog. It generally is on the pricey side, though well worth it. But in these tougher economic times, many people find it more difficult to dine out unless they can find good values. L'Andana understands this and has introduced their own value deals, such as the Piattini Menu at their bar. You definitely should check out this new menu and you won't be disappointed.
Their bar area is fairly spacious, consisting of a long bar plus numerous tables, including a wall length couch. It is a comfortable area and obviously popular. On a Tuesday evening, not when you might expect a crowd, there were plenty of patrons present both at the bar and tables. Though you can also order off the regular menu in the bar, you won't go wrong by trying the Piattini menu.
Like their regular menu, it seems the Piattini menu is subject to change, so there is often something new for you to try. Currently, the menu has 13 small plate options and 3 wood grilled selections. The small plates range from $2-8, most costing $4-$5. The wood grilled selections include two pizzas and a burger, each costing $15-16. I have tried six of the small plates and all of them were excellent, perfectly prepared and spiced.
The Wood Grilled Swordfish ($5) comes with a spicy almond romesco sauce. The two pieces of swordfish were moist and delicious, and the romesco sauce made for a tasty addition. It was spicy but not overly so and the almond flavor was subtle. The Grilled Scallop ($7) was accompanied with truffle whipped potato and topped with a rich, mushroom marsala sauce. Again, the scallops were grilled just right and the marsala sauce was excellent, pairing well with the scallops. The creamy potatoes were also very good and went well with the Marsala.
The Goat Cheese Bruschetta ($5) has a tomato vinaigrette and you receive two long pieces of fresh bread. Along with the creamy goat cheese, there were also slices of cherry tomatoes and the spicy vinaigrette seemed to have balsamic in it. I love goat cheese so this was excellent, the creaminess complementing the acidity of the tomatoes. And L'Andana always has excellent bread, such as their complemetary Ciabatta which starts every meal, including in the bar.
I was thrilled to see that L'Andana had brought back their Lemon Arancini ($4) with tomato brodo. The Arancini used to be on their regular menu and I absolutely loved them so I was disappointed when they were taken off the menu. The arancini now are just as exceptional as they were before. The outside is lightly crunchy and the interior is creamy and flavorful with just the merest hint of lemon. Lemon can sometimes overpower a dish but that does not occur with these arancini. Plus, the tomato brodo sauce is superb and I love to sop up any extra sauce with my bread once the arancini is gone.
The Marsala Glazed Veal Meatballs ($6) with Parmesan polenta has also been on the regular menu, without the polenta. I enjoyed the meatballs before and they were just as good now. The Marsala glaze is quite compelling with firm, veal meatballs. The creamy polenta was also very good with a strong cheesy flavor. The Grilled Rosemary & Lemon Steak Spiedini ($5) was another dish where the lemon flavor was very restrained, and thus just right. The three pieces of tender beef had the right combination of spices, making it quite delicious.
The Spicy Mediterrnean Fish Stew ($8) is the most expensive small plate but it would be a misnomer to call it small. There were loads of seafood in this dish, including clams, mussels, fish, calamari and baby octopus. Plus, a light and spicy tomato-based broth. All of the seafood was very tender and the combination of flavors was a delight. I even got to try one of their pizzas, the Margherita Pizza ($15) which comes with fresh mozzarella, pomodoro, and basil. The pizza has a very thin crust and I very much enjoyed it, especially the fresh mozzarella.
Service, as usual, was excellent. This was a superb meal, with an abundance of delicious flavors and perfectly prepared. The prices are very reasonable for the quantity and quality of food you receive. They would make a nice little snack if you were having a drink, or even a complete meal if you were so inclined. I will definitely be back for more Piattini and hope to see you there.
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
L'Andana
A new Italian restaurant, L'Andana, should be opening this September in Burlington.
Famed Chef Jamie Mammano created the Commonwealth Restaurant Group which owns a number of exciting restaurants, including Mistral (French/Mediterranean bistro), Teatro (casual Italian bistro), Sorellina (regional Italian-Mediterranean cuisine), and The Federalist (fine French-American cuisine). L'Andana will be his fifth restaurant and is said to be an Italian country grill, possibly a higher end dining destination. Chef David Blessing, who has cooked at Mistral and Sorellina, will be the chef de cuisine at L'Andana.
As Chef Mammano's restaurants are both popular and well reviewed, it bodes well for L'Andana.
Famed Chef Jamie Mammano created the Commonwealth Restaurant Group which owns a number of exciting restaurants, including Mistral (French/Mediterranean bistro), Teatro (casual Italian bistro), Sorellina (regional Italian-Mediterranean cuisine), and The Federalist (fine French-American cuisine). L'Andana will be his fifth restaurant and is said to be an Italian country grill, possibly a higher end dining destination. Chef David Blessing, who has cooked at Mistral and Sorellina, will be the chef de cuisine at L'Andana.
As Chef Mammano's restaurants are both popular and well reviewed, it bodes well for L'Andana.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
L'Andana: Lunch & Brunch!
My regular readers will know that I am a big fan of L'Andana restaurant. If you don't know, check out my last post on L'Andana. If you have not eaten there yet, you definitely should go. It is one of the best new restaurants.
I have some good news to announce concerning L'Andana. On January 28, they will open their doors to serve lunch, Monday through Friday, from 11:30am-2:30pm. They did not have a menu available yet but mentioned that the menu will include items such as salads, pasta dishes and sandwiches. I am looking forward to their lunch and will likely try it out next week.
In addition, L'Andana will soon start serving Sunday brunch. Brunch will start on February 10, from 11:30am-4pm.
Can't wait to try out lunch and brunch!
I have some good news to announce concerning L'Andana. On January 28, they will open their doors to serve lunch, Monday through Friday, from 11:30am-2:30pm. They did not have a menu available yet but mentioned that the menu will include items such as salads, pasta dishes and sandwiches. I am looking forward to their lunch and will likely try it out next week.
In addition, L'Andana will soon start serving Sunday brunch. Brunch will start on February 10, from 11:30am-4pm.
Can't wait to try out lunch and brunch!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
L'Andana: Some Updates
I dropped by L'Andana for lunch and noted a few changes of interest.
First, they now have a 3 Course Pre-Fixe menu for Lunch. For $22, you get a choice of Zuppa (soup) or Insalata, then a choice of one of three entrees (including a Strip Steak, Chicken Milanese, or Salmon) and then either Tiramisu or Gelato for dessert.
Prior to my food arriving, we received two large slices of their usual warm bread. I previously noted that during Restaurant Week they had made some changes. Instead of giving you a bowl of oil and tomato, they already added it to the top of bread. They have returned back to the old way, giving you the bowl of oil and tomato and allowing you to smear it on your bread. I like that way much better and am glad they changed back to it.
My Mom and I both had the Pre-Fixe. She had the Zuppa, a Mushroom soup, which she thought was excellent, with a nice, rich flavor. I had the Insalata which also was very good, with a lightly sweet Vin Santo dressing. Then she had the Strip Steak, a good-sized piece of beef, Rosemary fries. She enjoyed the steak very much and I had some as well. The steak was tender and flavorful. The fries were very thin, soft and tasty. Very different than their Truffle fries but very good. I had the Chicken Milanese, one of my favorite dishes, and it was as delicious as ever. As well as quite large. We both then ordered the Tiramisu. The Tiramisu was not presented as expected. It came in a sundae glass, with the pieces of ladyfingers at the bottom, layers of Mascarpone, a layer of chocolate sauce and shaved chocolate atop. We both loved this dessert. Everything blended well together without any one flavor overpowering the others. It was smooth and tasty, chocolaty and quite delicious. You definitely need to try their Tiramisu!
Service was excellent as usual. At $22, I think this lunch is a very good deal. 3 courses, all good-sized, and the food is very tasty. You definitely save money over if you had ordered each course separately.
Second, they also have a 3 course Pre-Fixe Menu for Dinner for $38 though I do not know the choices on that menu. Though I will be sure to check that out soon.
Third, the Dinner menu has undergone a few other minor changes here and there. They have a couple new Appetizers such as a Scampi and Stuffed Artichoke. They don't have the Veal Milanese on the meny though do have the Chicken still. They also have a Lamb dish, a Braised Colorado Shank. Plus, they have a new Beef Rib Roast, in either a Single Cut or Double Cut. And that comes with a Warm Popover (one of my favorite breads!). There are even a few more Contornoi, including Olive Oil Whipped Potato and Wild Mushroom Risotto.
I like that L'Andana continually makes some changes to their menu. It helps the restaurant from becoming stale, from giving you the same old choices all the time. And the quality of their food has remained consistently good. It continues to be one of my favorite restaurants.
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
First, they now have a 3 Course Pre-Fixe menu for Lunch. For $22, you get a choice of Zuppa (soup) or Insalata, then a choice of one of three entrees (including a Strip Steak, Chicken Milanese, or Salmon) and then either Tiramisu or Gelato for dessert.
Prior to my food arriving, we received two large slices of their usual warm bread. I previously noted that during Restaurant Week they had made some changes. Instead of giving you a bowl of oil and tomato, they already added it to the top of bread. They have returned back to the old way, giving you the bowl of oil and tomato and allowing you to smear it on your bread. I like that way much better and am glad they changed back to it.
My Mom and I both had the Pre-Fixe. She had the Zuppa, a Mushroom soup, which she thought was excellent, with a nice, rich flavor. I had the Insalata which also was very good, with a lightly sweet Vin Santo dressing. Then she had the Strip Steak, a good-sized piece of beef, Rosemary fries. She enjoyed the steak very much and I had some as well. The steak was tender and flavorful. The fries were very thin, soft and tasty. Very different than their Truffle fries but very good. I had the Chicken Milanese, one of my favorite dishes, and it was as delicious as ever. As well as quite large. We both then ordered the Tiramisu. The Tiramisu was not presented as expected. It came in a sundae glass, with the pieces of ladyfingers at the bottom, layers of Mascarpone, a layer of chocolate sauce and shaved chocolate atop. We both loved this dessert. Everything blended well together without any one flavor overpowering the others. It was smooth and tasty, chocolaty and quite delicious. You definitely need to try their Tiramisu!
Service was excellent as usual. At $22, I think this lunch is a very good deal. 3 courses, all good-sized, and the food is very tasty. You definitely save money over if you had ordered each course separately.
Second, they also have a 3 course Pre-Fixe Menu for Dinner for $38 though I do not know the choices on that menu. Though I will be sure to check that out soon.
Third, the Dinner menu has undergone a few other minor changes here and there. They have a couple new Appetizers such as a Scampi and Stuffed Artichoke. They don't have the Veal Milanese on the meny though do have the Chicken still. They also have a Lamb dish, a Braised Colorado Shank. Plus, they have a new Beef Rib Roast, in either a Single Cut or Double Cut. And that comes with a Warm Popover (one of my favorite breads!). There are even a few more Contornoi, including Olive Oil Whipped Potato and Wild Mushroom Risotto.
I like that L'Andana continually makes some changes to their menu. It helps the restaurant from becoming stale, from giving you the same old choices all the time. And the quality of their food has remained consistently good. It continues to be one of my favorite restaurants.
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
Sunday, November 4, 2007
L'Andana Revisted
Has L'Andana changed in a week since its initial opening?
I dined there again last night. I had went last weekend and you can read my previous review. My first visit had been positive so I was hopeful for the second visit as well.
I previously mentioned that I was unsure whether some of the tables were too close together or not. The restaurant was busier last night so I had a better idea on the issue. The chairs are large and thus may make it look closer than it really is. Those people sitting in that section did not really seem too crowded so it does not look like a problem.
Last week, the wine list was very short but that has changed. There are now around 30 wines available by the glass, a more diverse and extensive list. I was very glad to see their expanded wine list.
The menu has changed very little since last week, though it is still subject to change. Before our food came, we received their warm rustic loaf. The bread came with a dish containing oil, a tomato compote and a cooked, whole tomato. This was perfect for smearing on the warm bread and made a nice start.
We began with the Insalata ($12) and the small Pappardelle ($12, a new addition to the menu). The Insalata was a large dish of organic greens, wood-grilled pears (soaked in wine), Humboldt Fog cheese and a Chianti dressing. The dressing was very good and added a bit of sweetness to the salad. The cheese was a mild blue cheese and there was a large chunk atop a thin piece of bread. The pears were delicious too. The Pappardelle consisted of braised oxtail, buttery noodles and fresh parmesan. The oxtail meat was tender and in an intriguing brown sauce, maybe with some wine in it. The noodles were wide, long and cooked just right. I very much enjoyed this dish and probably could have had the large size for my dinner.
For our entrees, my wife chose a second appetizer, the Pork Belly ($12) and and I chose the Veal Milanese ($32). The Pork Belly was cider-braised with garnet yams and autumn fruits. The pork was very tender and juicy, with an intriguing apple flavor. An excellent dish. My veal had lemon, argula, cured tomato and shaved Parmesan. The veal was huge! I don't recall the last time I ever had a piece of veal that large. It was tender, lightly breaded and delicious. This is a dish I would highly recommend. We also ordered a side of the Truffle Parmesan Fries and they were just as good as last week.
Service was good though a little obtrusive at times. For example, the water pourers refilled your glass even when you had only drank a little. They are trying to have exceptional service but are going a bit overboard. It certainly can be a fine line but I think that with more time and experience the service will excel. It is still very new and the few kinks are still being worked out.
Overall, I was very pleased again with my experience at L'Andana. The food is plentiful and quite delicious. I continue to believe that this restaurant is going to become a big hit. I will certainly return, for both lunch and dinner, to try out other menu selections.
Check out L'Andana now. You won't be disappointed.
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
I dined there again last night. I had went last weekend and you can read my previous review. My first visit had been positive so I was hopeful for the second visit as well.
I previously mentioned that I was unsure whether some of the tables were too close together or not. The restaurant was busier last night so I had a better idea on the issue. The chairs are large and thus may make it look closer than it really is. Those people sitting in that section did not really seem too crowded so it does not look like a problem.
Last week, the wine list was very short but that has changed. There are now around 30 wines available by the glass, a more diverse and extensive list. I was very glad to see their expanded wine list.
The menu has changed very little since last week, though it is still subject to change. Before our food came, we received their warm rustic loaf. The bread came with a dish containing oil, a tomato compote and a cooked, whole tomato. This was perfect for smearing on the warm bread and made a nice start.
We began with the Insalata ($12) and the small Pappardelle ($12, a new addition to the menu). The Insalata was a large dish of organic greens, wood-grilled pears (soaked in wine), Humboldt Fog cheese and a Chianti dressing. The dressing was very good and added a bit of sweetness to the salad. The cheese was a mild blue cheese and there was a large chunk atop a thin piece of bread. The pears were delicious too. The Pappardelle consisted of braised oxtail, buttery noodles and fresh parmesan. The oxtail meat was tender and in an intriguing brown sauce, maybe with some wine in it. The noodles were wide, long and cooked just right. I very much enjoyed this dish and probably could have had the large size for my dinner.
For our entrees, my wife chose a second appetizer, the Pork Belly ($12) and and I chose the Veal Milanese ($32). The Pork Belly was cider-braised with garnet yams and autumn fruits. The pork was very tender and juicy, with an intriguing apple flavor. An excellent dish. My veal had lemon, argula, cured tomato and shaved Parmesan. The veal was huge! I don't recall the last time I ever had a piece of veal that large. It was tender, lightly breaded and delicious. This is a dish I would highly recommend. We also ordered a side of the Truffle Parmesan Fries and they were just as good as last week.
Service was good though a little obtrusive at times. For example, the water pourers refilled your glass even when you had only drank a little. They are trying to have exceptional service but are going a bit overboard. It certainly can be a fine line but I think that with more time and experience the service will excel. It is still very new and the few kinks are still being worked out.
Overall, I was very pleased again with my experience at L'Andana. The food is plentiful and quite delicious. I continue to believe that this restaurant is going to become a big hit. I will certainly return, for both lunch and dinner, to try out other menu selections.
Check out L'Andana now. You won't be disappointed.
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
L'Andana: Enoteca Menu
A few months ago, I told you about L'Andana's new Piattini menu. I really loved their small plates concept and the food was inexpensive and delicious. L'Andana has now expanded this idea, creating a new Enoteca Menu, an expanded list of small plates and inexpensive dishes in their bar and lounge. If you are looking for a good value when dining out, then you should check out this new menu.
The menu begins with some Bocconcini ("small mouthfuls" in Italian), which include one of my favorites, the Lemon & Mozzarella Arancini ($4). Then there are the Piatti Primi, seven small appetizers, priced $7-$10. Try the Crisp Sweetbreads Milanese or the Wood-Grilled Quail with Prosciutto, Marsala and Parmesan Polenta. The Piatti Secondi are more like small entrees, priced $12-$16. You could get Wood-grilled Sliders with smoked bacon, Fontina cheese and rosemary fries or a 7 oz. Wood-Grilled Sirloin with a salt-baked potato and grilled Romaine with Gorgonzola. Or try the Wood-Grilled Swordfish or Loch Duart Salmon.
They still have their Pizzas on the new menu: a Margherita, Sopressata and a Quattro Funghi. Plus, there are three desserts, including Chocolate Crema, Sorbetto/Gelato and Mixed Berries (all $3 each).
We all want value when dining out, especially in these tougher economic times, so it is well worth visting L'Andana and checking out the new Enoteca menu. Their food is excellent, they have some interesting cocktails, and good wines. So what are you waiting for?
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
The menu begins with some Bocconcini ("small mouthfuls" in Italian), which include one of my favorites, the Lemon & Mozzarella Arancini ($4). Then there are the Piatti Primi, seven small appetizers, priced $7-$10. Try the Crisp Sweetbreads Milanese or the Wood-Grilled Quail with Prosciutto, Marsala and Parmesan Polenta. The Piatti Secondi are more like small entrees, priced $12-$16. You could get Wood-grilled Sliders with smoked bacon, Fontina cheese and rosemary fries or a 7 oz. Wood-Grilled Sirloin with a salt-baked potato and grilled Romaine with Gorgonzola. Or try the Wood-Grilled Swordfish or Loch Duart Salmon.
They still have their Pizzas on the new menu: a Margherita, Sopressata and a Quattro Funghi. Plus, there are three desserts, including Chocolate Crema, Sorbetto/Gelato and Mixed Berries (all $3 each).
We all want value when dining out, especially in these tougher economic times, so it is well worth visting L'Andana and checking out the new Enoteca menu. Their food is excellent, they have some interesting cocktails, and good wines. So what are you waiting for?
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Pizzeria Posto: Pillowy Gnocchi
When my friend Jen was having a birthday last month, I suggested having a celebration at Pizzeria Posto. I knew it had excellent food, was reasonably priced and likely would be a fun stop for a party. I have previously posted a couple reviews of the restaurant, here and here, but had not eaten there for dinner yet. But felt that based on my three prior visits, dinner would be very good too.
I then learned that Edson, who once had been the Manager at L'Andana in Burlington, was now the General Manager of Pizzeria Posto. Edson is a very nice person, and did a great job at L'Andana so I am sure he will do equally as well at Posto. Plus, he worked with Chef/Owner Chef Joe Cassinelli at L'Andana, which should make for a good relationship. Edson helped make the final arrangements for the birthday party, placing us into the private room to the rear of the dining room, a bit more intimate of a spot for our celebration.
Their wine list is very interesting, with a more varied selection than many other similar places. You'll find Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio, but also more exotic grapes like Roero Arneis, Falanghina, and Verdeca. You'll find Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, but also more exotic grapes like Mencia, Bobal and Primitivo. You can order wine by the glass, bottle, or carafe (similar to a half-bottle). Glasses commonly range from $4-$10, with a few reserve wine at a higher price. Most of the bottles run $25-$40, with a few at a higher price. Thus, I feel the list is reasonably priced.
Everyone seemed to enjoy the wines they drank, and I was taken with the De-2 Mencia, from the Bierzo region of Spain ($27/bottle). An excellent example of the fine Mencia grape, and a nice choice for Italian cuisine. Plenty of fruit but with good structure and balance, and mild tannins. A few others in our party also ordered a bottle and enjoyed it immensely.
We started our dinner with some Rosemary Sea Salt Bread ($2.50) and Fries (hand cut rosemary sea salt fries, with garlic aioli $4). It is no secret how much I love fresh, hot bread and this bread was impressive. We all tore into the bread, dipping it into some chile oil, and savoring each hot, flaky piece. The fries were also very good, perfectly crisp with just the right amount of salt.
For appetizers, we ordered several different ones, including a couple of my favorites like the Crisp Arancini and Nonna's Meatballs (both which I have previously raved about). I was most interested in trying a couple of their seven pasta dishes, which are available in half portions ($9-$10) or full portions ($16-$18). Though they all sounded delicious, I opted for half portions of the Gnocchi and Agnolotti dal plin. Some of my favorite dishes at L'Andana had been their pasta, so I was hoping Posto's pasta might be equally as compelling.
My hopes came true as the two pasta dishes were exceptional. The potato gnocchi were made with braised lamb, port wine, and parmesan crema. These gnocchi were so pillowy, some of the lightest gnochhi I have ever tasted. There was plenty of very tender lamb and the savory sauce was quite delicious too. A top notch dish which I highly recommend. The agnolotti were stuffed with braised veal and topped with butter and parmesan. They too were very tender, savory and scrumptious, another dish I must recommend. I eagerly look forward to checking out the rest of their pasta dishes, which do change regularly based on what is available and seasonal.
We ordered a few pizzas too, which were just as good as on my previous visits. No one had any complaints about the food, and I heard plenty of raves. Overall, it was an excellent birthday party and Jen was very pleased.
I will definitely be returning here for both brunch and dinner, and highly recommend it to my readers. Excellent food, a more unique wine list, and reasonable prices are all good reasons to venture here.
I then learned that Edson, who once had been the Manager at L'Andana in Burlington, was now the General Manager of Pizzeria Posto. Edson is a very nice person, and did a great job at L'Andana so I am sure he will do equally as well at Posto. Plus, he worked with Chef/Owner Chef Joe Cassinelli at L'Andana, which should make for a good relationship. Edson helped make the final arrangements for the birthday party, placing us into the private room to the rear of the dining room, a bit more intimate of a spot for our celebration.
Their wine list is very interesting, with a more varied selection than many other similar places. You'll find Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio, but also more exotic grapes like Roero Arneis, Falanghina, and Verdeca. You'll find Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, but also more exotic grapes like Mencia, Bobal and Primitivo. You can order wine by the glass, bottle, or carafe (similar to a half-bottle). Glasses commonly range from $4-$10, with a few reserve wine at a higher price. Most of the bottles run $25-$40, with a few at a higher price. Thus, I feel the list is reasonably priced.
Everyone seemed to enjoy the wines they drank, and I was taken with the De-2 Mencia, from the Bierzo region of Spain ($27/bottle). An excellent example of the fine Mencia grape, and a nice choice for Italian cuisine. Plenty of fruit but with good structure and balance, and mild tannins. A few others in our party also ordered a bottle and enjoyed it immensely.
We started our dinner with some Rosemary Sea Salt Bread ($2.50) and Fries (hand cut rosemary sea salt fries, with garlic aioli $4). It is no secret how much I love fresh, hot bread and this bread was impressive. We all tore into the bread, dipping it into some chile oil, and savoring each hot, flaky piece. The fries were also very good, perfectly crisp with just the right amount of salt.
For appetizers, we ordered several different ones, including a couple of my favorites like the Crisp Arancini and Nonna's Meatballs (both which I have previously raved about). I was most interested in trying a couple of their seven pasta dishes, which are available in half portions ($9-$10) or full portions ($16-$18). Though they all sounded delicious, I opted for half portions of the Gnocchi and Agnolotti dal plin. Some of my favorite dishes at L'Andana had been their pasta, so I was hoping Posto's pasta might be equally as compelling.
My hopes came true as the two pasta dishes were exceptional. The potato gnocchi were made with braised lamb, port wine, and parmesan crema. These gnocchi were so pillowy, some of the lightest gnochhi I have ever tasted. There was plenty of very tender lamb and the savory sauce was quite delicious too. A top notch dish which I highly recommend. The agnolotti were stuffed with braised veal and topped with butter and parmesan. They too were very tender, savory and scrumptious, another dish I must recommend. I eagerly look forward to checking out the rest of their pasta dishes, which do change regularly based on what is available and seasonal.
We ordered a few pizzas too, which were just as good as on my previous visits. No one had any complaints about the food, and I heard plenty of raves. Overall, it was an excellent birthday party and Jen was very pleased.
I will definitely be returning here for both brunch and dinner, and highly recommend it to my readers. Excellent food, a more unique wine list, and reasonable prices are all good reasons to venture here.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
L'Andana: Creative Advertising
This is dedication!Edson Coimbra, Jr. (pictured above) is the General Manager of the L'Andana restaurant in Burlington. He drives a scooter to work and decided to add a special banner promoting the restaurant to the back of his scooter. I think that is creative advertising and I bet plenty of picture check it out when he drives by.
My readers know that I am a big fan of L'Andana and I strongly recommend that you check it out. If you want value, check out their new Enoteca menu with plenty of small plates and inexpensive dishes. On a recent visit there, I was also very pleased to see that they now carry a local wine from my favorite Massachusetts winery. They stock the Turtle Creek Zinfandel (which is made in Lincoln, MA).
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Ciao! Pizza & Pasta in Chelsea: Quality Food In a Small Package
During the last couple years, the news has been talking about the evolution of Chelsea, how it is being transformed with new apartment buildings, new hotels, and plenty of renovation. It once had a more infamous reputation, being seen as a heavily crime-ridden area, and still is seen that way by some despite the significant recent changes. It is a city on the upswing, which will see even more positive growth and investment in the coming years. One of those positive changes that will be seen is new and interesting restaurants, like Ciao! Pizza & Pasta.
Having opened a little over a month ago, on September 14, Ciao! Pizza & Pasta took over the location of a former Chinese restaurant, which had previously been there for about 23 years. Ciao is owned by Edson Coimbra, a former General Manager at L'Andana in Burlington, and Chef Marvin Posada, a former Executive Chef at L'Andana. Both have worked at other local restaurants as well and eventually decided to open their own place together. I first met Edson about eight years ago while he was working at L'Andana though I hadn't met Chef Posada until I visited Ciao. Edson lives in Chelsea, only a short distance from Ciao, and is a strong supporter of the Chelsea community.
I was excited to check out the new Ciao, especially after hearing more about the concept, a wood-fire pizzeria with homemade pasta. I went once to Ciao as Edson's guest and then returned on my own two more times, to try even more items on their menu. The restaurant is located across the street from the Chelsea District Court and down the street from the Mystic Brewery. There is a tiny parking lot next to the restaurant and plenty of street parking nearby.
One aspect of his cooking which struck me was his understanding of textures in various dishes. That might not be an element of cooking which many of us think about, but it can be important, elevating a dish from good to excellent. And poor textures in a dish can doom it, even if the taste is there. For example, the various pastas were cooked to an excellent firmness, a nice al dente. If your pasta is too firm, or too soft, it will detract from the dish. The addition of tiny, crunchy pieces of chorizo atop a Bolognese dish as well as the addition of crispy duck skin to a duck confit pizza elevated both dishes, enhancing the taste. Even the texture of the pizzas is designed to please the customer.
The Panini bread is made from their pizza dough, cooked in the wood-fire oven, and is thin and crunchy, adding a nice textural component to the tasty slices of chicken. It was a hearty and good sandwich, making for a nice lunch and a better alternative than the basic sub from many other takeout places..
Good luck to Edson & Chef Posada!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
L'Andana: Three Times in Three Weeks
I returned to L'Andana, my third visit in the three weeks since its opening. Reviews of my first and second visits are on my blog. So, was my third visit as good as the previous two?
The menu has changed a little bit again. They removed the Cod saute dish and added two Al Forno entrees, a Pork Shank and a Monkfish. They made a couple other minor changes as well.
We began with the Bruschetta ($15) with veal sweetbreads, rosemary spiedini, foie gras toast and a marsala glaze. This was quite a large dish of crispy and tasty sweetbreads. You may get turned off by the idea of sweetbreads but if you did not know what you were eating, you would love this dish. All of the flavors blend quite well together to make a delicious whole.
Also began with a small dish of the Maccheroncelli ($14), which used to be their spaghetti and meatballs. They just changed the type of pasta. Now you get home-made pasta tubes with two Wagyu meatballs in a Chianti sauce. The pasta was cooked perfectly. The meatballs are firm and meaty. They don't fillers. The sauce was incredible, just so delicious. They definitely make great pasta dishes.
For entrees, we chose a couple grill entrees. You get a large portion of the Salmon ($29), with a tasty sweet glaze. This came with roasted fall fruits and caramelized squash. The 8 oz. Filet Mignon ($38) was perfectly grilled, extremely tender and flavorful. This Filet could compete with any steakhouse. It was cooked rare, as requested, and had some Gorgonzola atop it. It came with a roasted potato that was good.
For dessert, we split a Torta de Cioccolato, a warm chocolate cake with a creamy pudding interior. This was accompanied by a scoop of honey vanilla gelato and some salted caramel sauce. A decadently delicious dessert that is sure to please chocolate lovers.
The food again was superb. I have not had any dish that I have disliked. And there is still plenty of dishes that I want to try.
Service was very good, with a couple minor misteps. For one, our server failed to inform us about an appetizer special they were serving. I heard another server telling people about the scallop appetizer. Service though has generally improved since my last visit. These minor issues are all typical for a new restaurant and I am still sure matters will be fixed soon enough.
I am definitely a big fan of L'Andana and certainly highly recommend it.
The menu has changed a little bit again. They removed the Cod saute dish and added two Al Forno entrees, a Pork Shank and a Monkfish. They made a couple other minor changes as well.
We began with the Bruschetta ($15) with veal sweetbreads, rosemary spiedini, foie gras toast and a marsala glaze. This was quite a large dish of crispy and tasty sweetbreads. You may get turned off by the idea of sweetbreads but if you did not know what you were eating, you would love this dish. All of the flavors blend quite well together to make a delicious whole.
Also began with a small dish of the Maccheroncelli ($14), which used to be their spaghetti and meatballs. They just changed the type of pasta. Now you get home-made pasta tubes with two Wagyu meatballs in a Chianti sauce. The pasta was cooked perfectly. The meatballs are firm and meaty. They don't fillers. The sauce was incredible, just so delicious. They definitely make great pasta dishes.
For entrees, we chose a couple grill entrees. You get a large portion of the Salmon ($29), with a tasty sweet glaze. This came with roasted fall fruits and caramelized squash. The 8 oz. Filet Mignon ($38) was perfectly grilled, extremely tender and flavorful. This Filet could compete with any steakhouse. It was cooked rare, as requested, and had some Gorgonzola atop it. It came with a roasted potato that was good.
For dessert, we split a Torta de Cioccolato, a warm chocolate cake with a creamy pudding interior. This was accompanied by a scoop of honey vanilla gelato and some salted caramel sauce. A decadently delicious dessert that is sure to please chocolate lovers.
The food again was superb. I have not had any dish that I have disliked. And there is still plenty of dishes that I want to try.
Service was very good, with a couple minor misteps. For one, our server failed to inform us about an appetizer special they were serving. I heard another server telling people about the scallop appetizer. Service though has generally improved since my last visit. These minor issues are all typical for a new restaurant and I am still sure matters will be fixed soon enough.
I am definitely a big fan of L'Andana and certainly highly recommend it.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Brunch at L'Andana
Yesterday, I finally tried Sunday Brunch at L'Andana in Burlington. As my readers know, I am a big fan of this restaurant so was eager to try their Brunch, which only started a few weeks ago.
They have Sunday Brunch from 11:30am-3:00pm and you can check out the menu online. They have both lunch and brunch options, as well as a list of specialty drinks and Champagne/sparkling wines. The lunch options are generally the same ones as on their usual lunch menu though the Brunch items are unique to this menu.
Prior to any of your food arriving, you receive a warm, grape Ciabatta bread, a thick, slightly sweet bread with a couple of cooked green grapes atop it. This was very interesting as well as tasty. And we devoured both large pieces of it. If we had known we were going to receive that, we might not have also ordered the Tuscan Almond Sticky Buns ($12). You get a skillet with four hot buns, slathered in icing. They were filled with lots of cinnamon though the almond presence seemed mild. They were certainly delicious, especially when hot.
After our sticky buns, we were brought four slices of watermelon, complimentary. It looked like all of the tables received this treat. The thin watermelon slices were nearly seedless and were nicely sweet and refreshing. A good palate cleanser prior to our main meals.
For our entrees, we had the Veal Milanese ($19) and the Stufato ($12). The Veal is made with brown butter and capers and is topped by three eggs, sunnyside up. The Veal is similar to what is on their dinner menu, a huge piece of thin, tender veal. It is one of my favorite dishes there and the three eggs added to the flavor, especially when you broke the yolks. This dish is large enough that many people may not be able to finish it.
I was not as happy with the Stufato. On the menu, it says that it is made of eggs, potatoes, peppers, and sweet sausage. But it fails to mention there are onions in it as well, an omission that puzzles me. Why leave out that one ingredient? It matters to me as I don't generally like onions in such dishes and I would have asked for it to be left out if I had known. The Stufato is cooked in a skillet, the eggs still with runny yolks. There were big chunks of potato and small slices of sweet sausage. I might have preferred a little more sausage as well. The dish tasted good, but it was nothing special.
Service was very good, and we had no issues with it. If you are seeking a bit more of a higher end Sunday brunch, then try out L'Andana.
They have Sunday Brunch from 11:30am-3:00pm and you can check out the menu online. They have both lunch and brunch options, as well as a list of specialty drinks and Champagne/sparkling wines. The lunch options are generally the same ones as on their usual lunch menu though the Brunch items are unique to this menu.
Prior to any of your food arriving, you receive a warm, grape Ciabatta bread, a thick, slightly sweet bread with a couple of cooked green grapes atop it. This was very interesting as well as tasty. And we devoured both large pieces of it. If we had known we were going to receive that, we might not have also ordered the Tuscan Almond Sticky Buns ($12). You get a skillet with four hot buns, slathered in icing. They were filled with lots of cinnamon though the almond presence seemed mild. They were certainly delicious, especially when hot.
After our sticky buns, we were brought four slices of watermelon, complimentary. It looked like all of the tables received this treat. The thin watermelon slices were nearly seedless and were nicely sweet and refreshing. A good palate cleanser prior to our main meals.
For our entrees, we had the Veal Milanese ($19) and the Stufato ($12). The Veal is made with brown butter and capers and is topped by three eggs, sunnyside up. The Veal is similar to what is on their dinner menu, a huge piece of thin, tender veal. It is one of my favorite dishes there and the three eggs added to the flavor, especially when you broke the yolks. This dish is large enough that many people may not be able to finish it.
I was not as happy with the Stufato. On the menu, it says that it is made of eggs, potatoes, peppers, and sweet sausage. But it fails to mention there are onions in it as well, an omission that puzzles me. Why leave out that one ingredient? It matters to me as I don't generally like onions in such dishes and I would have asked for it to be left out if I had known. The Stufato is cooked in a skillet, the eggs still with runny yolks. There were big chunks of potato and small slices of sweet sausage. I might have preferred a little more sausage as well. The dish tasted good, but it was nothing special.
Service was very good, and we had no issues with it. If you are seeking a bit more of a higher end Sunday brunch, then try out L'Andana.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
L'Andana: Thanksgiving Dinner
As L'Andana is one of my favorite suburban restaurants, I would chceking out its Tuscan-inspired Thanksgiving dinner with a 3-course pre-fixe menu offered at only $35 per person ($15 for children 12-years and younger). It sounds like an excellent value and the food should be delicious.
Your choices will include:
First Course
--Zuppa di Zucca: Autumn squash & pumpkin soup, maple crema, parmesan croutons
--Caesar: Parmesan, black pepper crostini, lemon-anchovy dressing
--Insalata: Organic mixed greens, cranberry vinaigrette, flatbread cracker
--Rigatoni: Bolognese traditionale, parmesan
Main Course
--Turkey: Roast breast, stuffed thigh, whipped potato, asparagus, sage stuffing, herb & giblet gravy
--Wood Grilled Sirloin: Roasted asparagus, sea-salt baked potato
--Porchetta: Fennel, chilies, rosemary potatoes, broccoli rabe, roasted pork brodo
--Three Pound Lobster: Sea-salt baked potato, sautéed chicories, roasted mushrooms, lemon butter sauce ($15 Supplement)
--Cod: Skillet roasted, tomato & parmesan risotto, basil, extra virgin olive oil
Dessert
--Pumpkin Pie
--Crostada, warm apple, cinnamon crumble, vanilla gelato
--Chocolate Crema, semi-sweet chocolate, chantilly cream, almond biscotti
Contorni for an Additional $6 each
--Baked acorn squash
--Whipped potato
--Sage stuffing
--Rosemary roasted potato
--Glazed sweet potato
--Truffle fries
--Rigatoni Bolognese
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
Your choices will include:
First Course
--Zuppa di Zucca: Autumn squash & pumpkin soup, maple crema, parmesan croutons
--Caesar: Parmesan, black pepper crostini, lemon-anchovy dressing
--Insalata: Organic mixed greens, cranberry vinaigrette, flatbread cracker
--Rigatoni: Bolognese traditionale, parmesan
Main Course
--Turkey: Roast breast, stuffed thigh, whipped potato, asparagus, sage stuffing, herb & giblet gravy
--Wood Grilled Sirloin: Roasted asparagus, sea-salt baked potato
--Porchetta: Fennel, chilies, rosemary potatoes, broccoli rabe, roasted pork brodo
--Three Pound Lobster: Sea-salt baked potato, sautéed chicories, roasted mushrooms, lemon butter sauce ($15 Supplement)
--Cod: Skillet roasted, tomato & parmesan risotto, basil, extra virgin olive oil
Dessert
--Pumpkin Pie
--Crostada, warm apple, cinnamon crumble, vanilla gelato
--Chocolate Crema, semi-sweet chocolate, chantilly cream, almond biscotti
Contorni for an Additional $6 each
--Baked acorn squash
--Whipped potato
--Sage stuffing
--Rosemary roasted potato
--Glazed sweet potato
--Truffle fries
--Rigatoni Bolognese
L'Andana
86 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Phone: (781) 270-0100
Thursday, December 20, 2007
My Year in Review: Part 2
Let us continue to look back to 2007.
In the first part of My Year in Review, I discussed the five biggest and most important food and wine events of the past year for me. Now I want to touch on some smaller events and items, including some of my favorites in certain categories.
This is certainly not a complete list. It is more just a small sampling of memorable matters I have posted about over the past year. Just several items that I want to emphasize though by no means are they the only memorable items of the past year.
Favorite New Restaurant: L’Andana is a new Italian grille in Burlington. It is the fifth restaurant owned by famed Chef Jamie Mammano, who also owns Mistral, Teatro, Sorellina and Mooo. L'Andana very much impressed me, with its creative dishes, large quantities and delicious food. You can read my multiple reviews of L'Andana. I look forward to returning there for many more good meals, as well as their future opening for lunch.
Favorite Dessert: The Wine Ice Cream by Mercer's Dairy of New York also impressed me this past year. You can read my review of their tasty products. It is a creamy ice cream with a distinctive flavor of wine. Though they currently are not available in any Massachusetts store, they can be mail ordered. I do hope they become available in the near future in Massachusetts.
Saddest Event: The most unfortunate event of the past year was the closure of Savory Tastes Cafe in Reading. This was one of my favorite restaurants and I was much saddened when I learned it would be closing. I am hoping though that in 2008, Chef Stephen Bell will open another restaurant in a new location. He is a very talented chef and I miss his cuisine.
Important Wine Event: The first wine auction in Boston was held this past September. Skinner, a large auction house, will hold about two wine auctions each year. They are partnered with the Lower Falls Wine Co. Their first wine auction had over 200 lots, including a number of rarities. Though I was unable to attend their first auction I do hope to attend their next one. I was fortunate enough though to attend their special pre-auction wine tasting which was an incredible event. They had an amazing selection of high-end wines available for tasting.
Favorite Food/Wine Movie: If you have not seen it yet, then go out and get the DVD of Ratatouille. Sure it is an animated movie about a rat who wants to be a chef. But it is a fantastic movie that foodies will love. It is also movie that both children and adults will enjoy. I just loved this film and I am sure I will watch it again and again.
Favorite Local Winery: For a few years, my favorite Massachusetts wines have come from Turtle Creek Winery. I visited their winery this year and it helped cement my support for this excellent winery. The wine maker, Kip Kumler, was a fascinating and passionate man. If you can find his wines, buy them. You won't be disappointed.
Favorite Cookbook: I have been reviewing a number of cookbooks over the past year. The stand out for me was Pure Flavor: 125 Fresh All-American Recipes from the Pacific Northwest by Kurt Beecher Dammeier. I loved the Chef's philosophy, his recipes and the whole style of this cookbook. Plus it was a visually pleasing book.
Favorite Food Book: I enjoy watching Bourdain and Zimmerman on television but found a new book in a similar wine, The Year of Eating Dangerously by Tom Parker Bowles. I was unaware of Bowles prior to seeing his book hit the stands. But it was an enjoyable romp across the world. Bowles is an interesting writer and his experiences are well worth reading.
Favorite Food & Wine Fusion: While in Spain, I visited the winery of Abadia Retuerta. Beside their fine wines, they also sold wine-infused salts. I have used them several times now, on everything from duck to beef, and love them. They certainly add flavor and I find them rather unique.
In the first part of My Year in Review, I discussed the five biggest and most important food and wine events of the past year for me. Now I want to touch on some smaller events and items, including some of my favorites in certain categories.
This is certainly not a complete list. It is more just a small sampling of memorable matters I have posted about over the past year. Just several items that I want to emphasize though by no means are they the only memorable items of the past year.
Favorite New Restaurant: L’Andana is a new Italian grille in Burlington. It is the fifth restaurant owned by famed Chef Jamie Mammano, who also owns Mistral, Teatro, Sorellina and Mooo. L'Andana very much impressed me, with its creative dishes, large quantities and delicious food. You can read my multiple reviews of L'Andana. I look forward to returning there for many more good meals, as well as their future opening for lunch.
Favorite Dessert: The Wine Ice Cream by Mercer's Dairy of New York also impressed me this past year. You can read my review of their tasty products. It is a creamy ice cream with a distinctive flavor of wine. Though they currently are not available in any Massachusetts store, they can be mail ordered. I do hope they become available in the near future in Massachusetts.
Saddest Event: The most unfortunate event of the past year was the closure of Savory Tastes Cafe in Reading. This was one of my favorite restaurants and I was much saddened when I learned it would be closing. I am hoping though that in 2008, Chef Stephen Bell will open another restaurant in a new location. He is a very talented chef and I miss his cuisine.
Important Wine Event: The first wine auction in Boston was held this past September. Skinner, a large auction house, will hold about two wine auctions each year. They are partnered with the Lower Falls Wine Co. Their first wine auction had over 200 lots, including a number of rarities. Though I was unable to attend their first auction I do hope to attend their next one. I was fortunate enough though to attend their special pre-auction wine tasting which was an incredible event. They had an amazing selection of high-end wines available for tasting.
Favorite Food/Wine Movie: If you have not seen it yet, then go out and get the DVD of Ratatouille. Sure it is an animated movie about a rat who wants to be a chef. But it is a fantastic movie that foodies will love. It is also movie that both children and adults will enjoy. I just loved this film and I am sure I will watch it again and again.
Favorite Local Winery: For a few years, my favorite Massachusetts wines have come from Turtle Creek Winery. I visited their winery this year and it helped cement my support for this excellent winery. The wine maker, Kip Kumler, was a fascinating and passionate man. If you can find his wines, buy them. You won't be disappointed.
Favorite Cookbook: I have been reviewing a number of cookbooks over the past year. The stand out for me was Pure Flavor: 125 Fresh All-American Recipes from the Pacific Northwest by Kurt Beecher Dammeier. I loved the Chef's philosophy, his recipes and the whole style of this cookbook. Plus it was a visually pleasing book.
Favorite Food Book: I enjoy watching Bourdain and Zimmerman on television but found a new book in a similar wine, The Year of Eating Dangerously by Tom Parker Bowles. I was unaware of Bowles prior to seeing his book hit the stands. But it was an enjoyable romp across the world. Bowles is an interesting writer and his experiences are well worth reading.
Favorite Food & Wine Fusion: While in Spain, I visited the winery of Abadia Retuerta. Beside their fine wines, they also sold wine-infused salts. I have used them several times now, on everything from duck to beef, and love them. They certainly add flavor and I find them rather unique.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Stoneham Sun: L'Andana
My new column of "A Passionate Foodie" can be found in the November 14 issue of the Stoneham Sun newspaper. This is a weekly column that concentrates on reviews of local restaurants though it may also touch on a few other food and wine topics.
The new column will be published tomorrow and is currently available online. The new column is a review of L'Andana, an impressive new Italian grill restaurant in Burlington. It has only been open about four weeks but I predict it is going to become a big hit.
You can read additional details about my experiences at L'Andana here, here and here.
If you have any questions or comments about my column, feel free to add them here. Next week, my column will be another restaurant review.
Dine with passion!
The new column will be published tomorrow and is currently available online. The new column is a review of L'Andana, an impressive new Italian grill restaurant in Burlington. It has only been open about four weeks but I predict it is going to become a big hit.
You can read additional details about my experiences at L'Andana here, here and here.
If you have any questions or comments about my column, feel free to add them here. Next week, my column will be another restaurant review.
Dine with passion!
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Mooo
An interesting name for a restaurant. When answering the phone, do they make sure to pronounce the extra "o"?
Famed Chef Jamie Mammano created the Commonwealth Restaurant Group which owns a number of exciting restaurants, including Mistral (French/Mediterranean bistro), Teatro (casual Italian bistro), Sorellina (regional Italian-Mediterranean cuisine), and L'Andana (Italian grill). They also owned the Federalist which was recently renovated and remade into Mooo, a steakhouse.
I have recently praised L'Andana and it has become one of my new favorite suburban restaurants. So I wanted to check out their other new restaurant, Mooo. I made reservations through Open Table, noting it was my wife's birthday.
We arrived early and sat in the bar to have a drink before dinner. They have a full bar and wine list. I had a glass of Chopin Vodka, which was nice to see as the Federalist had not stocked it for a time. My wife had a Grey Goose martini and thought it was one of the best she had ever had.
The restaurant is brighter and more friendly than the old Federalist. It has an air of casual elegance. It would certainly make a nice date night or to dine with business associates. We were seated and took at look at the menu and wine list.
The style of the menu reminds me of L'Andana. It is a single sheet of paper and has a list of Appetizers Red Meats, Other Selections, Seafood, Accompaniments and Sauces. They have a menu listed on their website but it is different in some ways from the actual menu. There appear to be more choices on the actual menu.
Appetizer prices range from $11-24, Entrees range from $28 to $110, though average around $36. Accompaniments range from $5-16. The choices are quite diverse and there are some innovative choices. Prices seemed about average for a Boston steakhouse. And as most of the dishes are quite good-sized, the prices seem reasonable.
The wine list is extensive though pricey. There are plenty of California Cabernets and French Bordeaux. They do have several wines under $50 a bottle though most are over that amount. Checking on some of their prices, I did find numerous wines that cost about three times the usual retail price. Though there were some wines that were closer to twice the usual retail. I ordered the 2005 Savigny-lès-Beaune, Arnoux Père et Fils ($75), which was an excellent French Burgundy. It had good fruit, a nice silky feel and did not overpower any of our food. Though this wine usually costs around $25 retail.
Prior to our food coming, we received a small black skillet with four hot Parker House rolls. These were fantastic! Hot, buttery, soft and absolutely delicious. And we later got another four of them. A great way to start our meal.
For appetizers, my wife had the Hearts of Belgian Endive and Watercress Salad ($12) with Roquefort cheese, spiced walnuts and a sherry-grain mustard vinaigrette. She very much enjoyed the salad and there was plenty of it. I had the Sushi Grade Tuna ($18) with ginger, citrus, soy and a couple large sesame crackers. I was expecting slices of tuna but instead had what looked like a tuna tartare. There was a large mound of diced tuna mixed with the ginger, soy and citrus. The tuna was very fresh and there was a lot of it. They did not skimp on the portions. The tuna was silky smooth, flavorful and quite delicious. The flavors were well balanced and nothing overpowered any other. An excellent appetizer.
For an entree, my wife had the Tenderloin of Beef Wellington ($44) with Foie Gras, spinach, duxelle and Madeira. This was quite a large piece of very tender beef, in a flaky pastry shell. An excellent dish with lots of flavor. I would definitely recommend this dish. One of the best Wellingtons I have had before.
I ordered the Kobe Beef Sirloin ($110), a 6 oz. sirloin from Japan, the authentic Kobe. Interestingly enough, the website lists the price of this dish at $130. And when I received my bill later, they charged me $120, though they corrected it to the $110 when I pointed out the error. Now, this is actually a very good price for authentic Kobe. It is less than $20 an ounce. I know that other Boston steakhouses are charging at least $30 an ounce so this is a deal. My sirloin was served sliced, and was rare as I ordered it. It was very good, though not exceptional or transcendent. It actually was not as butter tender as expected. I have had such Kobe before and this was not the same. I probably would not order this again though I did enjoy it.
We ordered a side of the Yukon Gold Potato Skins ($10) which have cave aged Gruyere and bacon. But our server misunderstood me and brought us a small Mashed Yukon Gold Potatoes. He did put in an order for our Skins but they did not show up until we were about three-quarters through our meal. They left us the small Mashed potatoes and did not charge us for that though we were charged for the Skins. We received three large Potato Skins and they were very good, though just a bit late.
The waiter was aware that it was my wife's birthday. It was good that they had paid attention to my comments when I booked through Open Table. I told him to bring the Butter Pecan Parfait ($10) for my wife for dessert. They put a candle in the dessert when they brought it. The parfait was exceptional, with layers of butterscotch pudding in it. I should note that we were charged for the Parfait. It was not free for her dessert as it is at some restaurants, such as the Capital Grill.
Overall, we had a very good experience with a couple of small issues. I would return to this restaurant and recommend it to others. The food is delicious, portions are large, and service is basically good.
Mooo
15 Beacon St.
Boston, MA
Phone: 617-670-2515
Famed Chef Jamie Mammano created the Commonwealth Restaurant Group which owns a number of exciting restaurants, including Mistral (French/Mediterranean bistro), Teatro (casual Italian bistro), Sorellina (regional Italian-Mediterranean cuisine), and L'Andana (Italian grill). They also owned the Federalist which was recently renovated and remade into Mooo, a steakhouse.
I have recently praised L'Andana and it has become one of my new favorite suburban restaurants. So I wanted to check out their other new restaurant, Mooo. I made reservations through Open Table, noting it was my wife's birthday.
We arrived early and sat in the bar to have a drink before dinner. They have a full bar and wine list. I had a glass of Chopin Vodka, which was nice to see as the Federalist had not stocked it for a time. My wife had a Grey Goose martini and thought it was one of the best she had ever had.
The restaurant is brighter and more friendly than the old Federalist. It has an air of casual elegance. It would certainly make a nice date night or to dine with business associates. We were seated and took at look at the menu and wine list.
The style of the menu reminds me of L'Andana. It is a single sheet of paper and has a list of Appetizers Red Meats, Other Selections, Seafood, Accompaniments and Sauces. They have a menu listed on their website but it is different in some ways from the actual menu. There appear to be more choices on the actual menu.
Appetizer prices range from $11-24, Entrees range from $28 to $110, though average around $36. Accompaniments range from $5-16. The choices are quite diverse and there are some innovative choices. Prices seemed about average for a Boston steakhouse. And as most of the dishes are quite good-sized, the prices seem reasonable.
The wine list is extensive though pricey. There are plenty of California Cabernets and French Bordeaux. They do have several wines under $50 a bottle though most are over that amount. Checking on some of their prices, I did find numerous wines that cost about three times the usual retail price. Though there were some wines that were closer to twice the usual retail. I ordered the 2005 Savigny-lès-Beaune, Arnoux Père et Fils ($75), which was an excellent French Burgundy. It had good fruit, a nice silky feel and did not overpower any of our food. Though this wine usually costs around $25 retail.
Prior to our food coming, we received a small black skillet with four hot Parker House rolls. These were fantastic! Hot, buttery, soft and absolutely delicious. And we later got another four of them. A great way to start our meal.
For appetizers, my wife had the Hearts of Belgian Endive and Watercress Salad ($12) with Roquefort cheese, spiced walnuts and a sherry-grain mustard vinaigrette. She very much enjoyed the salad and there was plenty of it. I had the Sushi Grade Tuna ($18) with ginger, citrus, soy and a couple large sesame crackers. I was expecting slices of tuna but instead had what looked like a tuna tartare. There was a large mound of diced tuna mixed with the ginger, soy and citrus. The tuna was very fresh and there was a lot of it. They did not skimp on the portions. The tuna was silky smooth, flavorful and quite delicious. The flavors were well balanced and nothing overpowered any other. An excellent appetizer.
For an entree, my wife had the Tenderloin of Beef Wellington ($44) with Foie Gras, spinach, duxelle and Madeira. This was quite a large piece of very tender beef, in a flaky pastry shell. An excellent dish with lots of flavor. I would definitely recommend this dish. One of the best Wellingtons I have had before.
I ordered the Kobe Beef Sirloin ($110), a 6 oz. sirloin from Japan, the authentic Kobe. Interestingly enough, the website lists the price of this dish at $130. And when I received my bill later, they charged me $120, though they corrected it to the $110 when I pointed out the error. Now, this is actually a very good price for authentic Kobe. It is less than $20 an ounce. I know that other Boston steakhouses are charging at least $30 an ounce so this is a deal. My sirloin was served sliced, and was rare as I ordered it. It was very good, though not exceptional or transcendent. It actually was not as butter tender as expected. I have had such Kobe before and this was not the same. I probably would not order this again though I did enjoy it.
We ordered a side of the Yukon Gold Potato Skins ($10) which have cave aged Gruyere and bacon. But our server misunderstood me and brought us a small Mashed Yukon Gold Potatoes. He did put in an order for our Skins but they did not show up until we were about three-quarters through our meal. They left us the small Mashed potatoes and did not charge us for that though we were charged for the Skins. We received three large Potato Skins and they were very good, though just a bit late.
The waiter was aware that it was my wife's birthday. It was good that they had paid attention to my comments when I booked through Open Table. I told him to bring the Butter Pecan Parfait ($10) for my wife for dessert. They put a candle in the dessert when they brought it. The parfait was exceptional, with layers of butterscotch pudding in it. I should note that we were charged for the Parfait. It was not free for her dessert as it is at some restaurants, such as the Capital Grill.
Overall, we had a very good experience with a couple of small issues. I would return to this restaurant and recommend it to others. The food is delicious, portions are large, and service is basically good.
Mooo
15 Beacon St.
Boston, MA
Phone: 617-670-2515
Thursday, January 31, 2008
L'Andana: A Lunch Review
As I recently mentioned, L'Andana is now open for lunch. I stopped by this week to check it out, and see if lunch would be as good as dinner. And I was not disappointed at all.
The lunch menu (which is probably subject to change as they adjust for lunch) has plenty of choices. You can start with a Primi, including small salads, tuna tartare or soup ($7-12). They had three sandwiches, including a BLT (with Pancetta), Open-Faced Panino (with Prosciutto & Mozzarella) or a 10oz Burger ($12-14). The Sandwiches come with french fries. There are 4 Entree Salads, frm Chicken Caesar to Watercress ($12-15).
There are five different Pasta dishes, similar to what they have at dinner ($12-15). You can also order a Chicken Milanese ($17), similar to their dinner Veal Milanese. There are three wood-grilled entrees, including Swordfish, Chicken and Ribeye ($17-19). You can even get an order of their Truffle-Parmesan fries ($7).
It was very quiet on the day we dined there as word about their lunch has not spread yet. Prior to our food arriving, we received their usual warm bread with oil and tomatoes. This is delicious bread though it can be filling. And they are quite willing to bring you more if you want. I was curious whether they would offer their bread for lunch or not and I am very glad that they did.
We ordered some fresh-brewed iced tea (which comes in Green, Black and Crimson Berry flavors). We tried the Green and Black and both were excellent. Though iced tea costs $4, you get a bottomless cup. For someone like me, I can easily drink 4-5 glasses of iced tea.
To start our meal, we split an order of Maccheroncelli ($15), American Wagyu meatballs and pasta in a Chianti sauce with Parmesan. I have had this before and enjoyed it very much. We each received two meatballs with our pasta. And it was as tasty now as it was before. The Chianti sauce is especially compelling, almost like a gravy with a touch of sweetness. The home-made pasta was cooked perfectly and the meatballs were good-sized, moist and flavorful.
For entrees, we tried the Grilled Swordfish ($17) and the Chicken Milanese ($17). The Swordfish was a good-sized piece of fish, topped by a mound of grilled peppers and onions. The fish was fresh and flavorful, white and tender. And the veggies were excellent too. The Chicken was topped with argula, cured tomato and shaved parmesan. It was a large, thin piece of breaded chicken that was very tender. It was large enough that some people might have difficulty finishing it. The breading is very light, almost panko-like. We did have the Truffle fries as well, and they were as crispy and addictive as always.
Overall, this was a delicious lunch from a restaurant that is excelling at what it does. Prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity you receive. They are comparable to the prices for lunch at the Capital Grille. You certainly have plenty of menu options for lunch, including some of their superb pasta dishes. Service was excellent without being overbearing.
I will certainly return there for lunch, and look forward to their new Sunday brunch that will begin on February 10.
The lunch menu (which is probably subject to change as they adjust for lunch) has plenty of choices. You can start with a Primi, including small salads, tuna tartare or soup ($7-12). They had three sandwiches, including a BLT (with Pancetta), Open-Faced Panino (with Prosciutto & Mozzarella) or a 10oz Burger ($12-14). The Sandwiches come with french fries. There are 4 Entree Salads, frm Chicken Caesar to Watercress ($12-15).
There are five different Pasta dishes, similar to what they have at dinner ($12-15). You can also order a Chicken Milanese ($17), similar to their dinner Veal Milanese. There are three wood-grilled entrees, including Swordfish, Chicken and Ribeye ($17-19). You can even get an order of their Truffle-Parmesan fries ($7).
It was very quiet on the day we dined there as word about their lunch has not spread yet. Prior to our food arriving, we received their usual warm bread with oil and tomatoes. This is delicious bread though it can be filling. And they are quite willing to bring you more if you want. I was curious whether they would offer their bread for lunch or not and I am very glad that they did.
We ordered some fresh-brewed iced tea (which comes in Green, Black and Crimson Berry flavors). We tried the Green and Black and both were excellent. Though iced tea costs $4, you get a bottomless cup. For someone like me, I can easily drink 4-5 glasses of iced tea.
To start our meal, we split an order of Maccheroncelli ($15), American Wagyu meatballs and pasta in a Chianti sauce with Parmesan. I have had this before and enjoyed it very much. We each received two meatballs with our pasta. And it was as tasty now as it was before. The Chianti sauce is especially compelling, almost like a gravy with a touch of sweetness. The home-made pasta was cooked perfectly and the meatballs were good-sized, moist and flavorful.
For entrees, we tried the Grilled Swordfish ($17) and the Chicken Milanese ($17). The Swordfish was a good-sized piece of fish, topped by a mound of grilled peppers and onions. The fish was fresh and flavorful, white and tender. And the veggies were excellent too. The Chicken was topped with argula, cured tomato and shaved parmesan. It was a large, thin piece of breaded chicken that was very tender. It was large enough that some people might have difficulty finishing it. The breading is very light, almost panko-like. We did have the Truffle fries as well, and they were as crispy and addictive as always.
Overall, this was a delicious lunch from a restaurant that is excelling at what it does. Prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity you receive. They are comparable to the prices for lunch at the Capital Grille. You certainly have plenty of menu options for lunch, including some of their superb pasta dishes. Service was excellent without being overbearing.
I will certainly return there for lunch, and look forward to their new Sunday brunch that will begin on February 10.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
L'Andana: Restaurant Week Lunch
For my first foray during Boston Restaurant Week, I went for lunch to L'Andana in Burlington. As mentioned before, I am a big fan of this restaurant and was curious as to what they would be serving for Restaurant Week. I had not seen their menu online so it would be a surprise when I showed up.
The Lunch menu was simple. For your first course, there was a choice of salad or soup. The second course was a choice of a Salmon, Rigatoni or a Chicken dish. And for dessert, there was a choice between a bread pudding and biscotti cookies. The three-course lunch only costs $20.08. I might have preferred a bit more of an adventurous menu.
Prior to my food arriving, I received a large piece of their usual bread, except they made a change. Instead of giving you a bowl of oil and tomato, they already added it to the top of bread. Although the bread was still quite tasty, I still prefer the old way. It makes for a better presentation, and also allows me to smear some of the tomato and oil on the inside of the bread and not just the top.
For my first course, instead of the mushroom soup, I chose the Insalata, a salad of organic mixed greens and goat cheese topped by a Chianti vinaigrette. I usually am not a big fan of the type of leafy greens in this salad but I devoured the entire large bowl. The Chianti vinaigrette was delicious and added plenty of flavor to the greens. The addition of several chunks of creamy goat cheese made for an excellent salad.
I then chose the Chicken for my second course, a wood grilled scallopini that cames with roasted mushrooms, onions, peppercress and shaved parmesan (though I had them skip the mushrooms). I received quite a large piece of chicken and it was tender and very moist. It had a smoky grilled flavor that well complemented its taste. A very good course, as well as a good-sized portion, that did not disappoint.
My dessert choice was the Budino, a white chocolate bread pudding with orange and pistachio crema. A moist, sweet and flavorful dish that I also eagerly devoured. It had several raisins in it, though I was easily able to remove them and push them to the side. One of the better bread puddings that I have had.
For $20.08, lunch was a very good bargain. I was certainly full when I left. My server, Lindsay, was excellent, both personable and attentive. The other servers that assisted her were very good too.
I did check out their Restaurant Week dinner menu, which is $33.08 for a three course meal. For your first course, you have a choice of Insalata (like the one I had for lunch), Rigatoni, or Prosciutto (with mozzarella and a tomato vinaigrette). Your second course options include a Wood-grilled Salmon with a Cider mustard glaze, a 10oz Wood-Grilled Ribeye with crumbled Gorgonzola, or Chicken Milanese (one of my favorite lunch items). For dessert, they have the Budino (the same as at lunch) or a Chocolate Caramel Torta.
I will likely try their dinner and report back.
The Lunch menu was simple. For your first course, there was a choice of salad or soup. The second course was a choice of a Salmon, Rigatoni or a Chicken dish. And for dessert, there was a choice between a bread pudding and biscotti cookies. The three-course lunch only costs $20.08. I might have preferred a bit more of an adventurous menu.
Prior to my food arriving, I received a large piece of their usual bread, except they made a change. Instead of giving you a bowl of oil and tomato, they already added it to the top of bread. Although the bread was still quite tasty, I still prefer the old way. It makes for a better presentation, and also allows me to smear some of the tomato and oil on the inside of the bread and not just the top.
For my first course, instead of the mushroom soup, I chose the Insalata, a salad of organic mixed greens and goat cheese topped by a Chianti vinaigrette. I usually am not a big fan of the type of leafy greens in this salad but I devoured the entire large bowl. The Chianti vinaigrette was delicious and added plenty of flavor to the greens. The addition of several chunks of creamy goat cheese made for an excellent salad.
I then chose the Chicken for my second course, a wood grilled scallopini that cames with roasted mushrooms, onions, peppercress and shaved parmesan (though I had them skip the mushrooms). I received quite a large piece of chicken and it was tender and very moist. It had a smoky grilled flavor that well complemented its taste. A very good course, as well as a good-sized portion, that did not disappoint.
My dessert choice was the Budino, a white chocolate bread pudding with orange and pistachio crema. A moist, sweet and flavorful dish that I also eagerly devoured. It had several raisins in it, though I was easily able to remove them and push them to the side. One of the better bread puddings that I have had.
For $20.08, lunch was a very good bargain. I was certainly full when I left. My server, Lindsay, was excellent, both personable and attentive. The other servers that assisted her were very good too.
I did check out their Restaurant Week dinner menu, which is $33.08 for a three course meal. For your first course, you have a choice of Insalata (like the one I had for lunch), Rigatoni, or Prosciutto (with mozzarella and a tomato vinaigrette). Your second course options include a Wood-grilled Salmon with a Cider mustard glaze, a 10oz Wood-Grilled Ribeye with crumbled Gorgonzola, or Chicken Milanese (one of my favorite lunch items). For dessert, they have the Budino (the same as at lunch) or a Chocolate Caramel Torta.
I will likely try their dinner and report back.
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