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| - Avanti is probably my favourite Italian restaurant. The food is excellent and the atmosphere reminds me of an old mobster hang out - not the gritty kind you see on B movies. Rather, it is casually posh.
Located just east of 27th Street on Thomas road, this cozy place is a quiet gem. There is plenty of parking in front of the restaurant. No valet needed, which is a nice perk in Phoenix. When you walk in, the décor is purposefully outdated in black and white art-deco design, mirrored walls and little alcoves where you can sit in semi privacy. It is usually subdued here - no need to shout at your dinner mates. I really like that.
Even better, the food is superb! I've never eaten in Italy, but I imagine this comes very close to Italian perfection. The pasta is so flavourful, I imagine a little old Italian lady, rolling the stuff by hand. Perfection on a plate. My favourite is their gnocchi. Little pillows of heaven, I tell you, and the accompanying sauce is amazing! I even secretly swiped my finger across the plate and licked it clean when no one was looking (don't tell on me!). I've tried several of their entrée dishes too and have yet to be disappointed. The double pork chop is cooked to perfection - tender and juicy on the inside, nicely seared on the outside; and served with a delicious risotto that has me wanting to lick my plate again. If you are looking for a hearty pasta dish, I recommend the Pappardelle with the braised beef ragu.
One of my favourite things about this restaurant is the atmosphere. From the moment you walk in the door, you have the impression of being in an old, Italian family restaurant from the center of Little Italy New York. Fogeddaboutit! Posh enough to take your date to, but not snobby by any means. Our wait staff have always been personable, attentive and casual. Prices are very reasonable, especially considering the quality and quantity of your meal. We generally spend $20-30 per dish, plus an appetizer and some wine.
Oh! And their wine selection is terrific. Even their house wines are great. Take your waiter's recommendation on wine with your dish. You will not be disappointed!
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