Oritalia Restaurant

Oritalia is one of the longest established Asian/Continental fusion restaurants, and its longevity is well deserved. The food is simply superb, as pretty as it is tasty. Principal influences are Italian and Chinese, though other cuisines contribute ... more

Oritalia is one of the longest established Asian/Continental fusion restaurants, and its longevity is well deserved. The food is simply superb, as pretty as it is tasty. Principal influences are Italian and Chinese, though other cuisines contribute as well. Unlike in some other fusion restaurants, where too many strong flavors compete and the dishes can get congested, the flavors here are clean and lively. Anything wrapped in pasta is especially recommended (the raviolini with lamb) is a favorite). Desserts are towering contraptions. requiring demolition before consumption. The menu is divided into small plates and large plates. Do not think of the small plates as just starters. It is quite possible to make a meal of two or three small plates. Or, better yet, grab a couple of friends and order a bunch of different things. This is perfect food for sharing. The kitchen is super at keeping the food coming out at an appropriate rate. The service is extremely professional, the room is stylish and pretty without being at all stuffy less

Intrigued by the menu I saw in the window of this Italian/Oriental restaurant, I went to try it a few nights later. Reading the menu is sweet torture because it's genuinely difficult to decide what to order -- it all sounds so amazingly good. And wha ... more

Intrigued by the menu I saw in the window of this Italian/Oriental restaurant, I went to try it a few nights later. Reading the menu is sweet torture because it's genuinely difficult to decide what to order -- it all sounds so amazingly good. And what my friend and I ordered *was* amazingly good. The chef has dreamed up some amazingly subtle, complex, and enjoyable flavor combinations. Since it wasn't possible to get the same mix of ingredients on every fork-full, each bite was a new experience. From the appetizers through the desserts every course was a treat for both the eye and the palate. The desserts are so good that were we Catholic we would have had to head straight to confession. The service was pleasant, prompt, and extremely helpful. The restaurant is small, so reservations are usually a good idea. They do have a bar, so if you just want a killer dessert after, say, a show at the Kabuki, just wander in. They serve until 10:00. This is not a cheap restaurant, but I consider it worth every penny spent. less