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Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Peachy Picks Padre Figlio

Tony of Padre Figlio with the amazing Tiramisu.  He is the Padre!

Padre Figlio was first featured in Terrific Takeout:
& Tasty Tidbits:
Their clearcut commitment to doing everything right and the warm personality of owner Tony in addition to the stellar cuisine they offer with notable diversity make Padre Figlio a Peachy's Pick.
For our non-Italian speakers, Padre means father and Figlio means son in Italian...


This is a Neapolitan family-oriented spot that has a 21-year history with a menu that is spot-on as well as specials that you won't want to miss.  We suggest you sit by the window -it is a beautiful spot of the restaurant that borders 44th street.
Crabcake enthused Peachy Deegan of course had to try the crabcake...you know she tries them nearly everywhere to see how they measure up from place to place, and we really liked the unique Italian quality these boasted with the fresh tomato and lobster sauce.  The jumbo lump crabmeat was lovely and authentic with a commendable consistency.  Pan-seared, these crabcakes are a fresh delight to your fall cuisine.  Peachy sipped on a glass of Super Tuscan wine, and we'd say their wine list is a knockout and just like the menu, there is something for everyone on it.
The chef at Padre Figlio has been there for 14 years and the appetizer chef has been there from the start-all 21 years.  Tony clearly inspires loyalty.
Though we hesitated to order a special, as it might not be there when you go, Peachy just could not turn down the opportunity to meet these absolutely fantastic lobster tails from South Africa!  
The South African cold water lobster tails joined by Risotto limoncello was simply exquisite and also something we have never seen anywhere else, and now that we've passed 100 reviews you know that is not an easy feat.  
We heard there was also a smashing Bison special last night...
Even the bathroom had a chandelier and unique gold locks on the doors.
The grand finale?  Tiramisu!  Joined by a cappuccino, this dessert was pure bliss.
One of the best we've had:
Our esteemed panelist adds:

The ambiance is traditional and cozy. It was especially nice to sit in the "outside" area. The selection of food is extensive while still being true to its identity as Neapolitan Italian. Moreover, the menu is extremely accessible for all dietary requirements from vegetarian to gluten free without limiting guests to a vegetable plate.
Because of the focus being on foods from Naples, I decided to sample some of the "local" cuisine.  I happen to like eggplant parmigiana so having the Crespelle Napoletane was a very unique experience. Made with baby eggplant stuffed with bufala ricotta and then baked in fresh tomato sauce raises the bar for those who enjoy the familiarity with nice twist.
For entrees, the Gnocchi Napoletani presented itself as an old favorite. Too often, restaurants are content with making the same favorite foods of the crowds without daring to be different. Here, the gnocchi is made not only with the traditional ingredients but also with milk and bufala ricotta as staples of the dumplings. With basil and bufala mozzarella in the sauce, I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy an old favorite of mine with a novel twist.
The NY cheesecake not only had a perfect smooth texture but combined with an artfully plated raspberry puree, the dessert was enjoyable in both sight and taste.
Oddly enough, the most special part of the meal to me was when they brought me my tea. Too often, I find myself pouring hot water from a tea pot that has not been given enough time to steep. Tonight, the tea was prepared to be enjoyed properly upon arrival to the table. Not only is the devil in the details but it was in the details of a cup of tea that made me enjoy my meal.

Peachy Picks Padre Figlio!

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