Review: Ray Parella's

Gemelli Spinachi (Credit: John Rott)

 
Despite my love for Italian food, I had only dined at Ray Parrella's Italian Cuisine once before my husband and I went on a recent Monday night. If you're looking for good yet affordable Italian food and a classy, yet casual atmosphere, this is the place to go.

When we arrived around 8 p.m. a group of folks was on its way out leaving the place almost empty except for one other couple. This made for a quiet, calm night that allowed for easy conversation.

On my previous visit I noshed on pasta with a group girlfriends so it wasn't until my last trip to Ray Parrella's that I realized this spot is the perfect setting for a date night. The dining area is so cozy in this family-owned establishment that you almost feel like you've been welcomed into the Parrellas' home for dinner, instead of a restaurant. Each table is adorned with a simple flower and candle to set the tone for a romantic and relaxing time.

Appetizers like brushetta topped with olive oil, Italian spices and three cheeses were tempting, but we decided to pass since we knew the fresh, warm garlic bread served with entrees would be brought to our table soon by our friendly and attentive server.

My husband settled on the Gemelli Spinachi ($12.95) — an offering of Italian sausage, baby spinach, grape tomatoes and Gemelli pasta sautéed in olive oil, crushed red pepper and garlic then topped with asiago cheese. Though my husband said it wasn't the best pasta he'd ever had, he rated it above average. He certainly cleaned his plate and said the spicy sausage gave the pasta an extra kick of flavor.

I'd been craving pizza all weekend, so I went for the 8-inch Florentine-style pie ($8.95). The thin crust was topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, provolone, spinach and chicken breast. The crust was crispy and the chicken was hearty, making for a tasty pie.

We were famished when we arrived, so we feared that a $30 limit would mean leaving unsatisfied. We were wrong; when we finished our meals, we were stuffed. Our bill came to $28.21 with tax and a $5 tip.

On our next visit, we'll be sure to leave room for dessert so we can try the cannoli or homemade cake. I'm also looking forward to checking out Ray Parrella's Wine Down Wednesdays, when patrons can snag half-price bottles of wine.

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