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Dinner With
The Stars

Casa Blanca
62-15 60 Lane, Maspeth; 386-7777

Cuisine: Italian

Hours: 12-10 p.m., weekdays; noon-11 p.m. weekends

Memorabilia from the romantic Hollywood drama “Casablanca” adorn the walls as do photos of the likes of James Kahn, Tony Danza, Johnny Depp, Hugh Grant and Elizabeth Hurley, Steven Seagal, and Frankie Valle from the Four Seasons, who have been among the customers to be lucky enough to enjoy the rich flavorful dishes at Casa Blanca.

A favorite among regulars, Casa Blanca seats around 180 people and provides for a family-oriented and warm atmosphere.  One of three owners, Al, said that many of the cherished items were donated by customers who were fans of the film.

Besides feeling at home, the restaurant offers a variety of choices that are cooked with quality ingredients — mostly imported — ranging from the extra virgin olive oil, to the San Marzano tomatoes, to the locatelli cheese to the Barilla pasta.  And the inspiration is from the southern style of Italian cuisine, said Al, who noted that all three chefs were Italian and trained in the style.

To start, the friendly waiter Raymond brought out spicy sausage rolls ($4), a crispy specialty and zestful favorite made of long Italian peppers, sausage, herbs, and parmesean cheese stuffed in hand-rolled dough.

Next came the penne a la vodka ($10.50) and a peake of grilled salmon lightly covered in dijon mustard sauce, accompanied by croquet and broccoli heads.

The fish was so fresh that it tasted like it had just been caught.  So when Raymond insisted on sampling the clam sauce — he didn’t have to ask twice.

An array of dessert choices awaits customers, who can choose from Lannoli, sfogliatella, tortoni, tiramisu, tartufo, and finally the Italian cheesecake as well as itcs Amerian counterpart.

Casa Blanca also hosts several events like comedy shows, concerts and weddings in the Crystal room. Call for more information.

— Susan Lee

To contact us call (718) 357-7400, fax (718) 357-9417 or write to
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