Nonna Silvia's Trattoria & Pizzeria

Over priced and lack of flavor.

Based on reviews, was expecting a fine meal at a fair price.

Over priced and lack of flavor.

Based on reviews, was expecting a fine meal at a fair price.

The reviews are all over the board on this place and many seem to be less than stellar. Nonetheless, my review is based on my and my family's Mother's Day experience here - and I must say that they did a great job. The five star rating is a touch high - probably more of a 4.5, but I'll give them a nod for now.

First, we arrived in three separate vehicles a little before 6PM when the reservation for our party of five was made. I arrived first and saw that there was a cramped waiting area so I asked the hostess is there might be a place for my mom to sit as she is older and can't stand for long periods. Their "waiting area" is limited to a small bar area up front and a tiny entry way - it was a little too cold to wait outside that day. The hostess noted that a party near the bar would be seated soon and there would be more room - or maybe waiting in the car might be a better option - not exactly a hospitable response, but in truth a practical one. However, as that is being discussed, I see my brother and mom through the window walking up to the restaurant. When she was inside, the hostess understood why I was seeking a place for her and immediately offered to put a chair right behind the hostess stand, where there was ample room to sit - and was actually an inconvenience to the host staff - but they were fine with it. Their willingness to accommodate was commendable - and my mom ended up chatting with a nearby table for a bit, so that went well too.

After a reasonable wait, we were seated in the adjacent room. Our table ordered two appetizers - my brother and I split the grilled calamari, which I found to be extremely tasty. It was served with some grape tomatoes on a bed of lightly sauteed spinach, most of which I also ate. Bread was served warm - almost hot and was very good. While I didn't have any bruschetta, the rest of my family enjoyed it.

For entrees, my mom had Sea Bass which she enjoyed though she thought the portion was a little small. Both my brothers enjoyed their meals; one had farfadelle and the other lasagna - he said the lasagna was near some of the best he has had. My sister-in-law and I both enjoyed the gnocchi. While it wasn't lacking, I do wish there was a touch more pancetta in the vodka sauce. The gnocchi dumplings themselves were about the best I've had - perfect texture and a good taste too. We all ordered dessert and were happy with that as well; I had a sea salt caramel gelato which was loaded with flavor. Service throughout the meal was timely, pleasant and attentive.

We ended up being there for about two hours and had a great time. As I got up to leave, I noticed that unlike so many places nowadays, I wasn't having to worry about bumping another diner or table due to cramped accommodations - there was sufficient room. I commented on that to my brother and he also noted how the restaurant wasn't trying to push people in and out either - like so many do to fill their place.

So, as I noted earlier, while the food wasn't absolutely perfect, I'm still giving this place a "benefit of the doubt" five star rating because of their excellent hospitality. I definitely enjoyed my experience here and do plan to return again.