This
restaurant is described as one of the trendiest, up-to
the-minute new openings, in and around the city. Conveniently
located in the West Village, just a few blocks from the popular
Meat Market, this romantic eatery, is a good pick to meet friends
for a spectacular affordable dinner before clubbing. The
interesting earthy-toned color scheme that creates a setting
of very comfortable subtle sophistication is a fitting setting
for the creative cuisine. Well known Chef Franklin Patrice, a
member of the coveted Philanthropic Association and Chef De Cuisine
of America, presents a menu based on heritage recipes from the
breathtaking city of Venice and other regions of Italy, that
have been modernized, to take advantage of the availability of
fresh fish, meats and other important ingredients of the season.
Flower-graced and with two warm and cozy fireplaces, an air of
genteel elegance pervades this idealized version of ‘A little bit of Italy’.
All who enter this very new arrival are charmed by the exquisite
combination of good taste and like a well-composed romantic
painting, host-owners Gianni Goci and Alex Selimaj, hold the
attention of patrons, in their plush comfy setting. I suggest
dining early, so you can enjoy the spectacular setting sun
over the Hudson and view the interesting, nautical activity,
as you dine on food that is light, with naturally reduced sauces,
attesting to the skill of Chef Franklin Patrice. Both owners
draw from a wealth of experiences which translate into dishes
bursting with flavor and service that is similar to a fine
symphony. Gianni is well known by those in the dining know,
as a former captain and manager at prominent New York City
restaurants such as Il Giglio, Accapela, Il Mulinos, Nino's
and others. He has owned a restaurant and definitely understands
the specific needs of his customers. Alex has been a part of
the celebrity of his illustrious brothers’ legendary
Italian restaurants, Bruno’s on 58th Street and Nino's
on First Avenue. Alex Selimaj is well qualified to pursue a
similar journey as his successful brothers. Antica Venezia
is a great place to lunch, have a private affair, party in
the lounge with friends, dine nightly, or close an important
business deal. Tasty food, coupled with pleasing background
music, in a spectacular decor and a very "in" lounge,
is what the well trained friendly staff presents. Our tasting
menu revealed exhilarative cooking techniques, which blend
the hearty cuisine of the Italian country-side with the latest
new Italian cooking techniques. The staff will assist and choose
impressive wines, for the many interesting appetizing specialties,
such as the impressive Granchio Fritti, ($9.95). This delectable
Crab Cake is served with luscious sauces and topped with a
roasted pan seared lobster tail. The Vongole Oregantata, ($7.95)
or baked clams, in an addictive light garlic sauce, is another
big hit with guests. Donna Weinstein from White Plains, told
us that, “The Carciofi al Forno Granchio ($10.95) or
Roasted Artichoke, was delightfully filled with fresh lump
crab meat and drizzled with a first-class garlic herb sauce “.
Donna’s table was celebrating a friend’s anniversary
and her husband Gary, raved about, “The
Antica Venezia Salad ($8.95), that included a generous
portion of arugula, mixed fennel, interesting greens, prosciutto,
and flakes of artichokes and topped with unique champagne
vinaigrette.
Gary commented, “The tableside Caesar Salad for Two, only $15.95, was a
wonderful way to begin our dinner. It is both a show and a taste sensation.” Another
table from Summit, New Jersey, commented, “The
superbly fresh homemade pastas with dainty and delicious sauces, were prepared
and served with panache and reminiscent of the pasta land of Venice. We ordered
three selections and shared. The very light Gnocci, with fresh Basil sauce, is
a winner, as is the simple but perfectly prepared Penne Pasta, with fresh tomato
and basil. The Pappardelle with Marscapone Cheese and mushrooms is another wise
and delectable choice.” Critics that have visited during their short
two month arrival, have awarded high ratings, as the cuisine is a symphony
of regional Italian delights, reflecting towering standards of culinary worth,
and for the charming diverse tone, popular with those wishing a place that
is perfect for all occasions. Every
dish tasted was above average, in quality, quantity, aroma and flavor. The entrees
will please your every mood and palate. Try the Shrimp a la Antica with a magnificent
Risotto. This is one of the top choices. Entrees had delicate tastes and detailed
preparations. I suggest the
Costoletta Di Angelo ($21.95) or Rack of Lamb with mixed vegetable ratatouille,
roasted red bliss potato,
rosemary aux jus and mint jelly. Fresh fish that ranges from Grilled Salmon
with homemade pesto sauce ($16.95), to a marvelous Zuppa di Pesce ($21.95),
is a generous seafood combination in a light tomato broth with tomato concasse.
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The
wonderful Sogliola Sorrentina Ripieno Con Frutta Di Mare
($17.95) is also award winning. The filet of sole is
stuffed with spinach and mixed seafood in a lemon and
garlic flavored pink sauce, and is a noteworthy ‘come
back’ dish.
Many
daily specialties reflect the skill of the chef, like the
Trio Veal Chop and the Basil Lobster with three sauces and
await the special diner, looking for a new taste. Gary, of
White Plains, related that his Pollo Antica Melanzana, ($16.95),
was served with a double tierof chicken breast and beautifully
flavored. Ordinary dishes like Surf and Turf are quite extraordinary
here. Just like the changing of tablecloths between
courses, before your eyes, the noteworthy water wall , the soft lighting, which
enhances the, natural
brick walls and theatrical drapes, every dish served here is a little bit of
theater. The homemade and tableside flambé desserts complete a scrumptious
dinner, for all those who love smooth service and cuisine with character.
Antica
Venezia Ristorante
An Extraordinary Dining Experience
“Welcome
to our professional eatery, that looks and
feels luxurious, but is truly an ‘Economic Romantic’.
Our wishes are for you to linger, enjoy good conversation,
good wine and great dining. If you don’t see what
you want on the menu, tell us and if the ingredients are
in the kitchen, we’ll make it for you.”
Owners Alex Selimaj and Gianni
Goci
“Enjoy our complimentary, after dinner, Grappa bar,
that has a vast and growing selection of homemade
Sambuca, with a choice of interesting Grappas and
Lemoncello. Our Flambés are prepared according to
your desires with the popular Banana, Strawberry and
Peach, sautéed with aged Balsamic Vinegar and served
with ice cream.”Gianni Goci"
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