Everyone knows the Old Port is the place to go for local fare. The salmon tartar at Holder is as French as Gérard Depardieu, and the cobblestone streets are dotted with quaint épiceries like Le Cartet, where they serve thin strips of toast with soft-boiled eggs, French-style.
But what if we crave some comfort food of an Italian persuasion? No need to leave the neighbourhood, now that new restaurant Graziella has moved in. Featuring Chef Graziella Battista’s homemade creations from the northern part of Italy, we were instant fans of the signature gnocchi (made with ricotta cheese, not potatoes) and braised veal cheeks ($25). The veal shank with saffron risotto ($30) is a bestseller, as is the truffle-filled ravioli ($25). Thinking hearty? Think rabbit stew ($24).
We went for the prix fixe lunch ($25) and could hardly choose from the four starters and main plates. Tucking into a piece of ricotta pie for dessert, we took in the modern, chic decor. It may be in the Old Port, but it’s certainly not old fashioned (not a checkered table cloth in sight). And whoever designed the lighting knows how to flatter a girl (hot date, anyone?).
Between the food and the atmosphere, we have one thing to say: Grazie, Graziellla!
Graziella
www.restaurantgraziella.ca
116 McGill Street (Old Port, near Wellington)
514-876-0116