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Category:
Published: November 2006
How would you like to enjoy a fabulous lunch or dinner and feel as though you were transported to Tuscany? If the idea appeals to you Il Forno Tuscano on Broadway in Saratoga Springs is a must try for you.
The decor is both European and contemporary. A black metal modern wine rack was suspended above our heads; our table was also black metallic as were the wall sconces. Wooden chairs and floors warmed up the look. The lighting was dim very relaxing and mood setting. The Italian music playing in the background was a great touch. If you enjoy dining al fresco there is a beautiful patio area right on Broadway where one could people watch while enjoying delicious food.
We started our dining experience with calamari fritti and a carrot puree. One was more delicious than the next. The carrot puree tasted just like the one my Italian grandmother used to make. As for the calamari, while it is not usually my favorite meal, I found them to be so light, fresh and perfectly fried and I couldn't help but thoroughly enjoy them.
For our entree we decided on pan seared rib eye steak and lasagna traditionale, which, as the name implies, is a traditional lasagna prepared with meat and ricotta in a besciamella sauce.
The steak was both succulent and very flavorful with mushroom gravy, red potatoes and fresh green beans - it was exceptional. My lasagna was also delectable with the besciamella sauce making a nice change from the usual marinara.
For dessert we enjoyed our usual decaf cappuccino. Forno knows what a good cup of coffee should taste like. It was rich and full-bodied. A taste treat. We decided to indulge on their peanut butter chocolate Tartufo. Peanut butter gelato with a milk chocolate shell dusted in cocoa powder. Does it sound heavenly? It was even more scrumptious than it sounds.
I have to say restaurateur David Zecchini really knows what it takes to own and run outstanding restaurants. Il Forno Tuscano was the third of his three Saratoga restaurants where I have had the pleasure of dining - Chianti and Mare being the other two. First and foremost, the food and presentation are always outstanding, the service impeccable, and the decor done to perfection. Saratoga is very fortunate that David Zecchini decided to call it home.
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