Mamma Lina

TL;DR-Beautiful food, service and atmosphere are all present. Make a reservation or stroll in early!! Had the most amazing dinner here last night. The service from Nikki was fantastic, personalized and seamless! Met a local friend who had never heard of the restaurant and we both agreed it’s worth coming back, over and over! Our starter was a beautiful Caprese salad. Tiny perfect pearls of burrata, fresh grape sized tomatoes, chiffonade of basil leaves, freshly cracked pepper & drizzles of balsamic make for a delicate opening of the palate. Our mains were also perfect in portion, richly balanced flavors, and piping hot. My friend chose the classic Polpette di Mamma Lina (Meatballs with spaghetti). 4 good sized meatballs with a serving of spaghetti. He said they were just the right amount of soft, slightly spicy and delicious accompaniment to the rich marina and pasta. He cleaned the plate! I had a dish so rich and sumptuous that even though it was gluten free, there was nothing absent in taste or appearances. I ordered the Spaghetti alla Francesco (penne for the gluten free set). If you’ve ever liked Alfredo sauces, and you happen to LOVE cheese, especially Gorgonzola, then this is your heart’s desire! I seasoned mine with some red pepper flakes and freshly shaved parmesano. You simply cannot describe the incredibly decadent Gorgonzola sauce. It was perfectly creamy, intensely flavorful, and clung to the noodles fiercely. It recalls the moment when Ratatouille (the little rat) eats two substances in his foraging and experiences a mental fireworks display. Flavors, textures, high notes and bass notes all in a single mouthful of food. It lacked nothing! I ate all but the last two bites; I desperately wanted a dolci course. I had a favorite from our month in Italy, Gelato il Pistacchio. Although the Arancia Rossa Sorbetto was mighty tempting as well. According to Nikki, they make everything they possibly can in house with few exceptions. I did not ask if they made the gelato but it would not surprise me in the least, as well! My buddy had another classic, Tiramisu. It looked and smelled like Heaven. We chatted late after the meal and never felt rushed ro depart, although we were the last ones in the restaurant. In summary, we enjoyed a sumptuous meal, in a relaxing setting with attentive service. Each dish presented was crafted with care, consideration and balanced richly against the pasta. In consideration of my friend, who is sober by choice, I didn’t have any wine. Its absence didn’t distract from the meal whatsoever.

Very knowledgeable about gluten sensitivities and very delicious