12/23/08

THE best in town--rates with the best anywhere in the world

by leevirginia

The finest Italian food anywhere. Dinner can run to $100 for two, depending. Ah, but here, it's worth, and consider how much cheaper than a trip to Italy--or even New York City. The dishes are the most stably creative, the chef and kitchen are dependably good. Aside from back when Steve's, out in Goochland, was making magnificent wonders such as a goose ravioli, with the eggplant ravioli pasta this gorgeous lavendar color, the flavor and texture of the entire creation just exquisite, I have never encountered any Italian food, regardless of region, that has made such magnificently spot-on creations as well as reaching perfection with the traditional dishes. By the way, it's entirely possible to still get the best Northern Italian food anywhere--ANYwhere--for less than $100 for two. Service is superb. They've now got a different maitre d' than the one I knew, who was THE best, and ran his ship precisely the way it should be run--gracious service that's attentive but not hovering, which was not only the best in town under him, but anywhere I've ever eaten --no matter how high-priced the restaurant. That said, I'm sure they've maintained their high standards with whoever is there today. This is THE place to dine in town. There is simply none better. (Oh, and the tiramisu is to die for--do get it, even if you're too full. Just take it home for later, and you'll be thankful all over again.) This is where to go for a truly fine dining experience, first for the food, but as well as for excellent service, which only enhances it. Those of us who can cook this way at home, but have always avoided going out because it seemed pointless to pay for less than perfection--which would inevitably be served with disregard (or even disdain)--have a reliable refuge that is an oasis that offers the ultimate in hospitality.

01/12/08

Great spot in Shockoe Slip

by nyer99

Among all the nearby restaurants, La Grotta really is a gem of a find!

Great for large parties (they have a large semi private wine cellar with seating that makes for an excellent choice), romantic dinners for two, and casual dining anytime. The food has always been good. From their salads to their desserts. I have eaten at this restaurant at least a dozen times, and have never been disappointed. I usually start with their asparagus with parmesan cheese as an appetizer, then try any of the salads, usually choose whatever they are serving as a special for dinner and close it out with their berries and cream dessert...light and delicious!

• Pros: Food, Atmosphere, Location

06/05/07

Wonderful italian desserts - and great dinners too.

by island0girl

La Grotta's downstairs location gives it a cosy and comfortable atmosphere. The wine cellar tucked off to the side looks like a romantic place to dine - we were seated in the main dining room which is a little bright for a romantic feel, but very comfortable. The service was prompt and friendly. We started with an appetizer of calamari, the lightly fried rings were tender, and enough that the three of us just got a taste. Our dinners were great. My husband had the soft shell crabs special, which was wonderful - the biggest softshells I've ever seen, and fried perfectly. I had dinner envy, but can't complain -my shrimp and polenta was rich, with amazing shrimp. My only complaint - the artichoke served in the sauce was a little crunchy - being undercooked it didn't have much of an artichoke flavor. Our companion's steak was perfect - he was used to not having steaks correctly cooked to his taste and was very pleased with the presentation. We splurged for the tiramisu and the gelato - both were incredible - I'm not sure which I'd recommend more. We didn't lick the plates, but I'm not sure the server believed us. We'll put this on our list of recommends -and we'll need to go back - we had Italian and none of us had pasta!

• Pros: Wonderful food - what more do you want?
• Cons: None by me.