La Lanterna RistoranteI forgot to get a reservationI forgot to get a reservation for Mothers Day at Il Fornaio and ended up booking at La Lanterna, and I'm so glad I did. I'd forgotten how wonderful the food, service and atmosphere was here. Very nice decor, high ceilings and large windows give it a very nice, airy, open feel. The mostly native-Italian speaking staff is very attentive and kind... and the food is absolutely wonderful.
Generous portions, delicious, well thought-out plates... every dish was a hit. Affogato (Espresso over Vanilla Gelato) and the Panna Cotta trio are still on my mind, two days later.
This is a hidden gem... I highly recommend you Italian food lovers check it out.5/12/2013 12:00:00 AMImaginative ItalianI did not comment on the wine or bar because I don't drink. What has impressed me most is that it is not one of those overpriced pasta joints. I found the menu varied & imaginative while maintaining the chef's Italian roots.
I had the risotto / pork loin; my friend had the soup & salmon salad. The flavors were subtle, but distinct with the right amount of seasoning. (I usually have to add salt & pepper)
The portions were generous without being overwhelming (I had room for dessert)
The staff are friendly & seem to anticipate your needs without being intrusive.
It's a great place to bring friends, family or that special someone.5/9/2013 12:00:00 AMWe always enjoy eating atWe always enjoy eating at this restaurant. The food is consistantly good and has different specials whenever we come. The service is friendly and helpful.4/27/2013 12:00:00 AMNever a disappointment whenNever a disappointment when dining here. Staff are friendly and attentive; food always pleases the palate.
Italian cuisine, but they prepare the most scrumptious New York Steak!!!!4/24/2013 12:00:00 AMHave been going here for yearsHave been going here for years and even had a couple of birthday parties. Food is always good. Never had a disappointing meal.4/6/2013 12:00:00 AMGreat restaurant; the foodGreat restaurant; the food is consistantly good and the service is warm and friendly. It's a favorite.3/30/2013 12:00:00 AMWe celebrated my birthdayWe celebrated my birthday with our family that includes 2 toddlers. They have an excellently menu for kids that includes different pastas, pizza and chicken tenders. We all ordered different entrees and each one of us enjoyed their food. I had the wild boar stew, it was excellent! As a birthday treat they served chocolate molten cakes which were fantastic and there was more than enough to share with everyone. I would difinetly recommend this restaurant.3/24/2013 12:00:00 AMMore Fine Dining on 25th AvenueLa Lanterna is a charming addition to the vibrant restaurant scene on 25th Avenue. Reservations for a party of six on Saturday night at the last minute? Did it on my iPhone while waiting for a concert to begin. My first choice was full, reviews for La Lanterna were positive, and they could take us. Despite our arrival times being spread over 45 minutes, the staff was into a relaxed Italian vibe. The food was freshly prepared, from fresh ingredients, flavorful without dramatic over spicing or staging. Our maitre d -- perhaps the manager -- was genuinely Italian, intense in his concern for our having a great dinner experience, and pride in his cuisine. 25th is the place for people who want to converse without shouting.3/23/2013 12:00:00 AMGreat Neighborhood Place to EatWe had no idea that La Lanterna has been open for 13 years - We loved everything, the food, service all excellent - we will be back.3/10/2013 12:00:00 AM