La Gondola Cucina Italiana

This was my first time here, and the place was fantastic. I went with a friend last Friday night (2/22/13), and I left feeling like I can't wait to return. The ambiance is casual, but vibrant and somewhat elegant. Our server was extremely friendly and efficient. She clearly has a lot of pride in the restaurant and in her own performance. I ordered the special that night, which was salmon with pesto and roasted vegetables. It was probably the best salmon dish I've had anywhere -- absolutely delicious and perfectly cooked. The prices were moderate, but the portions were quite large. I look forward to trying more items on their menu soon!

Went to the Belmont location a few months ago when I was around the area and had a great experience. I have been to the Ashland location before but this one is a lot roomier. Well, I started out by sitting at the bar and ordered a beer while waiting for a table. I noticed that the beer was ice cold which was a definite plus. And as we dine with a party of 8, the appetizers came in quite timely. I ordered the diablo black mussels and they were excellent!

Very nice atmosphere even though a little dark but added to the ambience. Will definitely will come here again when I visit up North again.

I did not love La Gondola. It's right across the street from my house, so I was excited to finally try it, but I was let down by how downright ordinary it was.  We ordered the stuffed gnocchi in pesto and the rigatoni puttanesca. Both tasted just... ok. The meals didn't really gel for me. not to get all Chopped judge on you, but the flavors just didn't seem to integrate. It's fine, and I'm sure a plainer dish would have been a little better, but not for the price. For $5 more per entree, I can think of 10 way more delicious Italian places, and even a few more delicious ones for cheaper or the same price!
I don't know, it just wasn't particularly special to me.