A friend and I hadn't planned ahead and were headed downtown for a bite after a fundraiser. Nando Milano was packed, but they were able to accommodate the two of us without any issue. We didn't wait a second. Our server was attentive and knowledgeable and one of the owners introduced himself to us and even remembered our names by the time we left--so nice to have a warm, friendly welcome.
The interior is very intimate and cozy--not at all like what you would find at a chain restaurant. It was pretty dark, so I saw a lot of people using their phones to read the menu. The menu is large and varied and there was a very large specials menu available as well.
We started with the house red wine and the lovely olives and bread that they brought to our table and ordered the arancini appetizer. WOW. There were three large saffron rice balls stuffed with different fillings. All three were amazing, but WOW the one with the mascarpone and spinach! If you go here, do yourself a favor and order this. You won't be disappointed!
My friend ordered the gnocchi sorrentina and was flabbergasted by how light and fluffy it was. Mashed potatoes have officially been elevated to something wonderful! I've made gnocchi myself, and mine never tasted as good as this. I ordered the lamb chops served two ways--roasted and Milanese style. It was tremendously good, although with lamb I think I prefer the roasted to the friend cutlet style. ;) It was served with spinach and roasted potatoes.
We were too full to try dessert, but next time we will make sure to give that a shot.
This place gets a hearty thumbs up from yours truly. I'll be back!