Building when you walk in is beautiful you wouldn't think that by just a plain building. Had the…read moreFrench onion soup very cheesy and good amount of bread in the soup. Main meal I had spaghetti and meatballs again excellent one of the better ones in the area. Better than That's Amore and all the other ones by South Ridge and down 76th Street Service was good they always are pleasant staff. Th lasagne has ricotta cheese in it. No ricotta cheese in that's Amore or Ann's it's not a true Italian lasagne if it doesn't have ricotta cheese in it. Just go to this place a true Italian restaurant. Sicilian Steak looked great. Just try it you'll be saying That's some great Italian food.

Delightful. We had a reservation but didn't need one. On a weeknight evening it was not too busy…read more Many were at the bar watching the World Cup, only 1 tv there at the bar. Enough space in restaurant for parties large and small. So gorgeously decorated, very authentic and romantically dark. Our server Debbie was so sweet and attentive. I ordered the chicken piccata which was so delicious they used the perfect amount of lemon that really tied the dish together. The pasta was cooked well and the chicken was juicy. My friend had the capellini pomodoro which was also delicious. To end the visit we had to get an authentic Italian dessert of course. We had the tartufo which was so delicious and rich, a chocolate ice cream type of dessert with cocoa powder and hazelnut pieces. Absolutely loved the experience, very quick and easy to get seated, the food came quickly and tastes so amazing. I'll have to come back and try their pizza and other dishes, there were so many amazing options on the menu.

We have been disappointed during our last few visits, and today left us with mixed feelings. The…read morepizza tasted great, and the extra cheese was satisfying, although there was not much meat. The beef ravioli, however, was more disappointing. As shown in the photo, there was very little meat and far too much thin, watery marinara sauce, leaving the dish without much substance. We did appreciate the fresh Italian bread basket. Our server, Antonio, came across as arrogant and was not particularly friendly. We chose to sit outside because the restaurant was very cold inside, but the outdoor seating area had so many flowers that we were constantly bothered by bugs and flies. It was also difficult to enjoy our meal with the smoking area located so close to the outdoor tables. One definite positive was the Brewers shuttle to American Family Field. Our driver was friendly, professional, and very safe. We truly appreciated that service. Unfortunately, we have also noticed that takeout pizza orders seem to be made with fewer ingredients. During our previous visit, we ordered extra cheese on our takeout pizza but clearly did not receive it. We are not sure when we will return, as the food quality and overall experience have become too inconsistent and not what we have been used to in past years.

I came to Balistreri's Bluemound Inn at 4:30 p.m. on a weekday. The person who saw me come in never…read moresmiled and it seemed as if I was a problem to be solved instead of a person with their wallet in hand, looking to spend money. I was seated in the dining room. There was only one other person in the room at the time, which made my meal pleasantly quiet. There was music in the background, which was clear but not too loud (although VERY loud in the restroom). I was given some lovely, very fresh bread along with garlic-infused olive oil and some other treatments. I ordered the mushroom ravioli with marinara. It came with tomato bisque but I advised that I would take it home, so I'll write about that a little later. The plate arrived quickly. It was one of those large, shallow bowls and was filled with a LOT of marinara. The plate was cool to the touch and, sure enough, my pasta and shrimp (I tried both) were barely warm. I advised my server of such and asked that it be wrapped up to take home. I finished my rose, paid my bill, and left. I heated up the food at home. This actually gave me a chance to study the food in better light, as restaurants are always too dim for my eyes. The raviolis were HUGE - these giant circles of pasta with tiny filled centers that reminded me of depictions of flying saucers. In all honesty, they looked utterly silly. There was so much pasta, and very little filling. The filling was supposed to be mushroom and cheese, but I could only taste the creamy cheese. Why you have to use cheese for a mushroom ravioli, I have no idea. As I indicated before, there was a LOT of sauce - far more than was needed. It was PEPPERY, to the point where, by the time I was done with the pasta and shrimp, I wanted nothing more to do with the sauce. I don't tolerate pepper or hot peppers (they aren't related) very well. Why there was so much pepper is anyone's guess. I heated up the tomato bisque the next day. It was very tasty, although it, too, was somewhat peppery (but not like the marinara). For a bisque, it was lumpy. I'll go back sometime, but they need some work in a few areas.

A group of our family met the other night at That's Amoré to celebrate a birthday, it was a…read morewonderful experience from start to finish. The restaurant was busy, but that didn't slow down our amazing server, Kayla C. She was so kind, funny, and attentive. Such a gem! She checked in on us throughout the meal, kept our drinks full, and made sure everyone was enjoying their food. We started with appetizers, including the famous onion strings, which definitely lived up to the hype. Next came fresh salads and plenty of warm breadsticks. Kayla was happy to customize the salads for family members with different dressing preferences, which we really appreciated. The entrees were so good and very generously portioned. The menu has a great variety, making it easy for everyone in our group to find something they enjoyed. One family member brought in a bakery cake for the birthday celebration, and Kayla even offered to have it sliced for us, which was such a thoughtful touch (even though she was a bit disappointed that she missed singing "Happy Birthday!")! The wonderful service truly made the evening special!

I haven't been to the restaurant itself in quite a while…read more Fortunately, we get to enjoy That's Amore's food every summer because they cater the concert series at Boerner Botanical Gardens, and they do an amazing job. I've tried most of the menu items, with the exception of the lasagna, and everything has been very good. They also serve a delicious sangria. This year, I finally tried their cannoli, and I was blown away by how good it was. It's not quite as good as one that's freshly filled to order, but it's surprisingly close. If you order the Italian sausage sandwich, be sure to add the grilled onions and peppers. While you're at it, don't miss the giardiniera from the condiment table. It adds just the right amount of flavor and heat. The staff who work these events are always super friendly and do a terrific job.

This is an authentic Italian restaurant that feels like I'm having Sunday dinner at my papa's home…read more First and foremost the customer service is stellar. The waitstaff was lovely and owner Pietro told my son and I the story of their beautiful pizza oven that came all the way from Italy and visited our table to welcome my parents and tell us about the resturant and their family. This place is owned and operated by an incredibly talented and caring family that has opened their recipes and hearts to the community. The food was perfectly executed. From the seasoned and crips calamari to the margarita pizza that was flavorful with a thin crisp crust, our appetizers were loved. And then the pasta; just perfect. It's hard to find legitimate Italian pasta and this is it. The pasta was al dente with delectable homemade sauces. We enjoyed the chicken Marsala, chicken parmesan, a la vodka pasta, and pasta Alfredo-which my kids said was better than mine! All of these dishes were perfectly seasoned, fresh, piping hot, well sauced, and just delectable. The portions are perfect leaving just enough for lunch the next day if you can keep yourself from eating the whole plate! It was easy to get a reservation for a larger party, which I appreciate! The dining room and bathrooms were accessible for my mother who uses a wheelchair and she felt extremely comfortable dining. My two younger kids also enjoyed themselves and the atmosphere was versatile; perfect for kids, dinner with the grandparents, or a date night out. All in all we are excited to come back for another fantastic meal. Thank you to the owners and family for building this gem in Milwaukee.

I might have deducted three stars, rather than only two, if I'd included my feelings about my…read moreentree . . . which I hated. But that would be unfair and inappropriate. I had the beef Spiedini -- something we served at the venerated east side institution, Palermo Villa, when I waited tables there, years ago. But as delectable as it looked, it was one of our dishes that I never tried! And so, I think I ordered it at Carini's with unrealistic and inaccurate expectations. Suffice it to say that, FOR MY TASTE, the meat was undercooked and too chewy. I also found the stuffing off-putting, in both taste and mushy consistency. But again, THAT'S ME. It's entirely possible that this dish was prepared perfectly. It's just not for me. Now, on to the positives: * The Mussels Macchiato (in "a garlic wine sauce, splash of Carini's marinara") were the best mussels I've had anywhere. And, if you utilize the provided bread, so as not to let any of the ample sauce go to waste, you'll find it a "sopper's delight". * Is it possible to ruin Tiramisu? I doubt it . . . but its quality certainly can vary. In this case, I'll venture that Carini's is the best by far. The unfortunate negatives (and the reasons for the two-star deduction): * What could have been, and should have been, a very pleasing, simple and straightforward spinach salad (with cucumber, fontinella cheese and kalamata olives, in a sundried tomato vinaigrette) was ruined by the fact that whomever added the dressing drowned this unfortunate little salad that never did nothing to nobody. * The coffee -- both my first cup and the refill -- were barely warm enough to count as "tepid", much less hot. Details, even those as small as this, matter in a fine dining establishment with fine dining prices. * And, speaking of fine dining establishments with fine dining prices: These, of all places, should not commit that cardinal sin: jumping on board the "me too" train, shamelessly taking on the feel and appearance of a sports bar. In short, guys, 86 the giant TVs (of which there were, I think, at least two, in the not-all-that-huge bar area. I had to choose my seat in the dining area so as not to have to see either of them.) The prices, menu and marketing of Carini's all say "class" and quality (and/or an attempt to project class and quality). TVs say "tacky". Lazy. Like almost every other tacky, lazy, fungible place one might choose to step into these days. Because a Brewers game was on, and because I noticed it (behind and above the head of the understanding young lady at a table to my left), I succumbed to the temptation to steal (pun intended) several glances. But had I been left with nothing more than people-watching and my own thoughts, I would have survived just fine. Just fine, thank you.

I love the pesto bucatini with the crispy chicken. Their Cesar salad is to die for. Indoor and…read moreoutdoor dining without servers as the food runner just runs the food out to you but everything needs to be purchased at the counter. The food is so flavorful and fresh. It's clean and the service is quick!

I ordered take out for two pasta dishes and it was ready in 10 minutes of me calling, super quick!…read more I ordered a more hearty dish, pappardelle and a lighter, fresh dish, campanelle signature. Both were so good, flavorful and filling! Everything was really smooth with pick up and the food was delicious!

Great ambiance inside and outside. We loved the pizzas and pasta for sharing. Service was fast but…read morewe didn't feel rushed.

What a fabulous meal and experience atTaurp Cocina! 3 of us…read morewent last Sunday, Aug 23rd, to celebrate a birthday. Actually 2 of the 3 of us had a birthday in the last 4 weeks. 1 of us had been to Tauro Cocina before. The food was excellent! We shared a house salad which was very good. The 3 entries ordered were: Linguine al Poblano, (house-made linguine tossed in our specialty poblano pesto with grilled chicken) Cilantro Risotto (cilantro cream risotto, served with spicy grilled shrimp, topped with shaved parmesan) And Grilled Salmon (served with your choice of risotto & sauteed seasonal. Each one was unique, so flavorful & freshly prepared. Excellent! The service was top notch. I had called earlier to see if they did anything for birthdays. The reply was yes. When arriving the host asked if we were celebrating any special event, confirming my call. Through the entire meal service was attentive without being obtrusive. When our plates were cleaned (with leftovers for each of us) the server brought out plates for both birthday friends. The plates had 3 churros, a small dish of warm chocolate sauce, were decorated with Happy Birthday & a candle. All with finesse. An overall great meal and great experience. Definitely worth visiting & I will be returning.

Wow, this was a true Italian culinary experience conveniently placed in a walkable downtown…read moreWauwatosa. For our anniversary, we were interested in trying out a new, romantic, fancy restaurant and that's exactly what we experienced at Ristorante Bartolotta. From the dining area decor, to the dining arrangements, table setup, and handwritten anniversary card, dining here was an experience we'll cherish. Also, we got to enjoy the remainder of the Christmas/holiday decor felt like a winter wonderland. As for the food, it's difficult to pick a favorite dish because they were all delicious and unique. One of the interesting parts of dining here is that the menu will rotate monthly inspired by dishes from various parts of Italy. While I considered myself a dear lover of Italian food before, I quickly learned that my previous experience was limited and there are so many more authentic Italian dishes that I have not experienced but am eager to after trying dishes from the Trentino-Alto Adige region. I also appreciated the brief food history lesson provided by one of our waitresses about the dishes from this region. We learned that the dishes could be described as an Italian-Austrian fusion based on the location. Before ordering, we got a warm basket of bread with butter. Then, we enjoyed a four course meal - Antipasti, Primi, Secondi, Dolci with cocktails. We also received complimentary champagne to celebrate our anniversary. We truly appreciate all the attention to detail and extraordinary service throughout our dining experience. We even got to tell the waiter the abridged version of how we met. Some other highlights are how easy their online reservation system is - we were able to book this amazing dining experience in minutes. They also have a rewards program that's free to join. And you can bet we signed up as soon as we got home. Another thing I appreciated how they warmed or chilled the plates. And it seemed like they thoughtfully planned out the delivery of our courses because there was minimal wait time between each course - just enough time to savor and talk about how delicious the last dish was. Needless to say, I can't wait to come back and try the dishes from the next region of Italy for my birthday!

My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed celebrating our anniversary at Ristorante Batolotta dal 1993. When…read morewe were there the chef was featuring dishes from the Abruzzo region of Italy. Our Lyft from downtown Milwaukee got us to the restaurant a bit before our reservation so we enjoyed a cocktail at the bar -- a delicious Negroni for me and a Veneziano Spritz for her. As we finished up our aperitifs our table was ready precisely at the time of our reservation. We wanted enjoy a bottle of wine with our meal, but despite being a fairly knowledgeable consumer of wine, I found the wine list overwhelmingly long -- especially because I am not well versed in Italian varieties and regions. Our waiter was very helpful in pointing out that there were several selections from the Abruzzo region that fit the profile we were looking for -- a flavorful, dry, red. The one I selected complimented the meal perfectly (Illuminati Ilico Riserva Montepulciano d' Abruzzo). Over all, the food was an excellent, four course Italian dinner, with several options to choose from for each course. The antipasto course for me was bruschetta -- bright and fresh on a nicely toasted crostini, topped with a thin shred of Parmigiano Reggiano. For my primi I chose the house made pasta with lamb meatballs -- probably the best spaghetti and meatballs I've ever had. My wife chose a rich, earthy cavatappi with wild mushrooms. For our secondi course my wife opted for roasted chicken with Mediterranean vegetables and I went with pan seared snapper. The chicken was perfectly roasted and properly sauced on the plate -- presented like one would expect at a family meal. On the other hand, the snapper was plated more like an upscale restaurant, but not as neat and fancy as I would have preferred. I did find the snapper to be the weakest of my four courses -- the flavors did't wow and the vegetable under the fish were eminently forgettable. I neglected to take a photo of our dolce course -- after my Negroni, a glass of prosecco to celebrate our anniversary, the bottle of wine, and a grappa as a digestif, I was feeling pretty relaxed. I do remember that the dessert was pretty damn good -- and I'm glad we took a Lyft back to our hotel.

The food is always amazing and a step above. The service has been excellent on every visit. It's…read moreour new favorite restaurant!

This is a small place, but the food and service are amazing. From the time we were seated we were…read moretalking care of quickly.Friendly service with a smile.Food was amazing bursting with flavors. This place is a game changer for me. Nice laid-back atmosphere..Great place to hang out with a few friends. This is going to be one of my favorite places for i Italian food..... Try this place, you will definitely come back for more