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| - Over the past month we have been lucky enough to have two of the best Italian meals of our lives. One at Lola and Giuseppe's in Columbus, OH (see review) and one at Nora's!
Service
Overall very polished! We had a reservation on a Monday night and were seated about 10 minutes after our time. The place was packed! We were promptly greeted by the server, and he was attentive throughout always refilling our soft drinks quickly. The meal was well-paced and not rushed nor slow. Fresh silverware was provided after each course - a small touch, but don't you hate going to a restaurant and being told to "keep your fork!" as if they only allow one per guest. A bus boy graciously packed our leftovers for us which we appreciated.
Ambiance
Sorry Lola, Nora wins here hands down. Modern upscale interior. Extremely classy. No booth seating, however, so when it's crowded it doesn't feel too intimate or private.
Food
Truly exceptional. Lola might have the slenderest advantage, but wow it's a close call. We started with two wonderful cocktails including a peach Bellini. Tasty and great presentation. We had some soft drinks too which were constantly refilled. We had arancini as an appetizer which was ok. A bit mushy on the inside. Then a Caesar salad which was very good. Truly tasty dressing and fresh lettuce. The garlic bread was exceptional! We had read on Yelp only one basket per table was allowed, but we asked for more which wasn't an issue at all (no charge). It would honestly be pretty gauche for a place like this to charge for more bread. Entrees were... amaze balls! Chicken Parmesan and pork fillet. Wow. Huge portions (see photos) and both were flavorful tasty meat. The pasta with the chicken was wonderfully al dente. Very large portions (plenty leftover for both). For dessert a slice of spumoni (so so tasty and flavorful) and bread pudding. The bread pudding - wow! Not like the typical dry bread but so soft and moist like a custard. Lola's is similar, so this must be an Italian style bread pudding. So delicious - you mustn't pass this up!!
Mojo
Overall an outstanding place with great service and exceptional Italian food. Lola's might take a slight edge for its homey authentic atmosphere and overall taste, but if you aren't up for a trip to Ohio you must (really you MUST) eat at Nora's!! Total bill for two cocktails, an appetizer and a salad, two entrees, and two desserts was about $100. Very reasonable for the quality of the food!
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