Dolce Fantasia was just beginning to serve dinner when we arrived on a Monday evening. Our waitress Rose cruised across the room. The wait staff can’t wait to offer advice. Paul Goldfinger photo 7/10/23.
By Eileen and Paul Goldfinger. Blogfinger.net
We had heard early rave reports about Dolce Fantasia, the classic Northern Italian restaurant at 521 Cookman Avenue in A. Park. It is across from Toast and catty corner from Bonney Read.
We had a delicious dinner. Eileen had Tagliolini Con Arogosta, a lobster dish. I had shredded veal in a melange called Osso Buco with Rigatoni. We split a nuanced Cesar salad with small tasty croutons. For those of us who are unfamiliar with this cuisine, we can also find more familiar meals such as lamb chops and hamburgers.
I brought Eileen here for her birthday, flying high on a gift certificate. We were drinking a $10.00 bottle of San Pellegrino bubbly water. Eileen’s phone matched the seats. Paul Goldfinger photo. 7/10/23
This chef, who has a few successful restaurants in New York, is especially known for his homemade pasta which is superb.
I can’t begin to expertly review this restaurant because the menu alone requires some expertise to understand. But we can tell you that dining at Dolce Fantasia is a marvelous experience choreographed by a master chef. The presentation is exquisite, and the service is friendly, efficient and informed.
Our waitress Rose, a genuine pescatarian, chatted with us about food and life, and when she learned that Eileen had written a cookbook she asked her for an honest appraisal of her dinner, “..and don’t lie to me!” She didn’t even wince when I ordered a Diet Coke.
When Rose said her name, I said “Rose of Washington Square.” And my grandmother was also a Rose.
This eatery is down to earth–as if you were dining at a friend’s home.
The room is beautifully done and comfortable.
Note that they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. They also produce their own pastries and wonderful desserts.
Rose brought Eileen an unexpected dessert. She blows out a candle and wishes for a bigger portion. We have to come back.
This is me sitting near some tasteful art work while watching the action on Cookman. You can also eat outside. Eileen photo.
Our recommendation is to study the menu before you go. and bring questions with you.
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