Dinner plans changed the night before my family was to leave town after my graduation. It was a Saturday night at 6pm and we suddenly didn't have dinner plans.
I did a quick survey and found that everyone wanted Italian. A quick google search led me to La Calabria - a place I had neither heard of or dined at before. I checked Yelp and the reviews were good so on we went - sans reservations - to try something new.
I must say that both my wife and step-mom wanted to go to Olive Garden but I just hate chains and was willing to chance a great meal over a mediocre one I could trust. I'm glad I pressed on!
The service was excellent, almost as good as the food which was spectacular. The setting wasn't exactly what I'd imagine with such great service and food. They would really be helped by being in a fancier building. Being in a strip-mall must certainly limit their patrons but I guess that doesn't matter because the place was packed by what looked and sounded like a strong group of regulars. Always a good sign - when the owner comes around and is clearly greeted by people he has met before.
Will we go back? Of course! Everything was absolutely great. Some of the highlights:
1. They brought my 5 year old son's meal out first so he could get started. They obviously know a 5 year old eats slowly. He said it was the best chicken fingers he has ever had (of course he says that a lot).
2. We asked how big the portions were and were told they were size-able. My wife and I ended up splitting a meal and are glad we did. They give us each a full sized dinner salad and to be honest the plates we got each looked like full sized meals.
3. The wine they recommended was excellent and a perfect fit for our group.
4. When the server found out we were celebrating my graduation the restaurant bought us a round of sambuca shots and me a free desert. What a great touch!
5. The owner greeted us personally twice and chatted with us for a few minutes.
6. The after-dinner cappachino was just like I remember from Italy! perfecto!