Monique and I at Amalfi (thanks for the pics Mo)
On Saturday, my "Baby Boo" Nevaeh Amore Woods was dedicated (although I sadly missed the actual ceremony due to VA drivers in the rain). Her Mama Mia (you like the Italian vibe on that) asked for a restaurant recommendation, and after a great deal of research, I found Amalfi Ristorante in Norfolk's Ghent Neighborhood. My reasons for picking this restaurant were as follows:
1. Named top vegan restaurant in 2007
2. Their patio is covered in Ivy (Mia is an AKA, so I thought it would be befitting of such an occasion)
3. Authentic Italian food is delicious
4. They have a wooden sign in the middle of the restaurant that says "Amore"
So, after the ceremony, we went to the restaurant and I was pleased with the ambiance. They definitely got the whole "Italian villa" vibe down, with the ceramic tile, ivy, and cast iron. Very Tuscan.
I had a taste for Amalfi's panini, which I heard great reviews about. Unfortunately, the paninis are only available on their lunch menu, which ends at 2:30pm. Instead I chose the Lasagna. Normally, I am not a fan of restaurant lasagna (definitely not a fan of Maggiano's lasagna... or any of their food actually...) but I figured that since I was at an authentic restaurant, I would try it. Definitely a great choice! Just the right amount of sauce, and the pasta was extremely fresh. I will go backwards now to the Antipasti (appetizers) that some of the guests ordered. The calamari.... WOW!!! Now, whenever I talk about calamari I always compare it to the calamari at Carabbas because that's my fave. Well, Amalfi's was on the same level, if not better than Carabbas! Once the main courses came out, everyone was pleased with their meals. All I heard was "excellent choice Quentin," and I have to agree with the crowd!
One negative about Almalfi Ristorante was the long wait for our meals. We were sitting for about 45 minutes before we even got our bread. Although we were a large group, it seemed that it took longer than desired. Since you can't really judge the restaurant's timeliness in large groups, I will be going again for dinner for two (or at least less than 4) soon. If you want to come with, let me know!
In conclusion, if you are ever in the Ghent area, definitely check out Amalfi Ristorante. You will not be disappointed!
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