A New Haven
For Fine Dining
Paolo’s Ristorante: 29-02
Francis Lewis Blvd., Whitestone, 461-5444
Cuisine: Italian
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, noon-11
p.m.;
Sunday 1-9:30 p.m.
Credit: all major cards accepted
Parking: street parking available
There is a cozy dining secret hiding
wonderful food, impeccable service and enchanting décor that is now serving in
Whitestone.
Paolo’s is a first venture for the
26-year-old owner Kenneth Foti (a neighborhood boy), but he has certainly put time,
research and personal love into the place and turned out an establishment you would expect
from someone much older and with far more experience.
Add to the delicious food and atmosphere
his willingness to offer special touches (a complimentary glass of wine with an entré on
some nights, live piano entertainment on others) to introduce the place, and Paolo’s
is a must-stop for anyone who enjoys dining out.
During my dinner visit, the Vongole
Oreganata (stuffed baked clams oreganata $6.95) were perfectly seasoned and moist without
being oily.
My dinng companion tried the Pollo Rustico
(chicken with asparagus, capers, olives, artichokes in a white wine sauce $12.95) and
described it simply as "phenom-enal."
I had the Penne Alla Montanara (pomodori
sundried tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, strips of grilled chicken with white wine sauce
$12.95) and was delighted with the perfectly cooked pasta, the tasty sauce, and the fact
that there was enough to take some home for the next night.
Plans are in progress for a lounge to
accompany the restaurant and offer a late-night coffee alternative to the neighborhood.
Paolo’s is simply a place to watch
– and to try – as it develops into an essential part of the Queens dining scene.
— Tamara Hartman |
