When I heard that DeAnna’s in Lambertville specializes in simple homemade pastas, I knew it was a place I had to check out. In recent months, as I’ve explored some of the other hidden gems of the quaint river-town, the name DeAnna’s was mentioned more than once. Yet, when I drove by the highly-recommended restaurant, I was surprised to see an unassuming corner structure marked by a large neon “Bar” sign. Could this little place in the back of Lambertville live up to it’s hype?
When we walked into DeAnna’s, our impression immediately shifted. The chic restaurant was elaborately (but tastefully) decorated for Halloween. Despite it’s classic Italian food, the decor is anything but traditional.
The hospitable staff welcomed us and continued with warm, prompt service throughout the night. By the end of the almost dozen specials (including seasonable additions like butternut squash raviolis and pumpkin manicotti), 0ur mouths were watering. My table sampled a variety of dishes. For appetizers- a goat cheese arugula salad, butternut squash soup, and prosciutto and Peccorino stuffed cherry peppers. Our entrees included fresh gnocchi, pasta with sauteed chicken and mushrooms in a Gorgonzola cream sauce, and the fish of the day. Gnocchi is something I rarely order because restaurants can never seem to match the memories of my Nana’s home-made dinners. I decided to give DeAnna’s a chance and didn’t regret it. The perfectly cooked gnocchi was masterfully paired with a fresh, light tomato sauce. To finish, the table split an amazing homemade ricotta cheesecake, which had a consistency similar to a rich pound cake.
I can’t wait to go back to DeAnna’s to let my tastebuds explore more of their Italian delicacies. The only thing that upset me is that I am just discovering this restaurant now, even though DeAnna has been cooking her delicious Italian dishes for over twenty years! I guess I’ll have to make up for lost time 🙂
*Tip: DeAnna’s offers a 3 course prixe fixe or “locals” menu on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. $20 includes appetizer, entree and dessert. The menu options change weekly.
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