My boyfriend and I don't usually do Italian food often. Admittedly this is because we've only really enjoyed Lidia's and that place is too expensive for frequent dining. We've been talking about trying Zarra's for awhile and tonight we finally did.
First - the decor: It is so quirky. We loved it. There are a variety of weapons and... old toys... and stuffed ducks and such a mismash of things in the dining room. We spent part of the meal discussing which of the swords, daggers, crossbow we would bring to a duel with each other.
Second - the food: It was good. It was really good. I had the alfredo and it was creamy and seasoned and the pasta was al dente. My boyfriend had the ricotta pasta with a meatball and the meatball was giant, the pasta fluffy and unique and delicious. He says the tomato sauce was also delicious. I don't know because I don't like tomatoes, but I believe him. Our meals came with garlic bread and salads and the lettuce was crunchy and fresh. My only criticism of the food is that the salads were maybe a wee bit overdressed, though we liked the balsamic dressing.
The waitress was friendly and it seemed like a family-run operation.
We'll go back.