Eggplant parmigiana is not an easy dish to make right. It takes time and it is easy to mess up. Italian restaurant chains in Las Vegas - who insult my heritage with the food they serve, routinely embarrass themselves when they attempt an eggplant dish. This is not the case with Rocco's and I am very happy to announce that if you are of Italian heritage and come from the New York/North Jersey area - you will want to eat here.
The Rocco's staff challenged me by claiming their cannoli was the best. My reaction was: the best cannoli I have eaten is found in Little Italy - Bronx, NY at Gino's. They make the shells using the traditional method of wood pins - and their filling is the best. It's been 14 years since I have been to Gino's and I will say this to Rocco's - you guys did a really great job and I will be back.
My family did try several other dishes - the fettuccine, the penne vodka, and a meatball sandwich and everyone was very, very happy. Rocco's came recommended to me from two different people. I ordered for pickup and next time I will dine in. The place has an east coast pizza place feel that I grew up and worked in as a young guy - except they did it right and have a nice big space for the dining room.
The last thing I need to mention is the tomato sauce, because as an Italian/American it would be a mistake not to talk about it. Every Italian has their preference and it is usually their grandmother's. I like my sauce very salty and thin. However, Rocco's was really good, not too sweet - which drives me crazy and my family enjoyed it very much.
Thanks Rocco's - I saved some of my eggplant for tomorrow and look forward to seeing you again.