Friday Eats Returns

If you've been to Provo in the past couple of months, you've probably noticed that there are three Italian restaurants on the same block (this is NOT including Gandolfo's Deli, which could count as Italian as well.) To put it bluntly, they stack up like this- "Terrible," "Okay," and "Good." So can you guess which is which?


Let's start with the lowest on the rung- La Dolce Vita. I went here for the first time a couple of years ago and ordered a pasta dish. The fact that I can't even remember what it was says a lot. It was terrible! When I go out, I expect food to taste better than what I can make at home. If opening an envelope of Western Family Alfredo sauce powder and mixing it with milk and butter qualifies as the "real deal," then this place will toot your horn.

I was coaxed into trying once more a couple of months ago- "They're famous for their calzones," and once again, major dissappointment. The pre-meal bread was soaking in lukewarm butter, the salad consisted of shredded iceberg lettuce and mini crutons, and my calzone way drenched with watery tomato sauce! Honestly, don't waste your money.

Next up for the "Okay" category is Gloria's Little Italy. Let's just say I've been there only once and I would glady give it a second chance. My first visit was during the lunch hour and I ordered the Michelangelo Panini. First off, it wasn't even grilled and they were trying a new bread that day- totally ripped the roof of my mouth apart. Gloria (I have to give these guys credit- a family owned and run business in true fashion) was in the kitchen and wanted feedback on the "new" panini bread. I begged the waitress to tell her to go back to whatever she'd done before! I did try some pasta as well, and it was much better. So- yes, I'll go back and give it a second shot.


Lastly, Ottavio's qulaifies for the "Good" category. I've been several times throughout the years, some bad experiences, but mostly good. The bread is always cold, still trying to figure out why these places don't spend more time perfecting the pre-meal bread because you know what they say about the first bite... (not sure what they say, but it sounded nice.) The pasta is usually fantastic, although sometimes too flavorful- heavy on the cheese, salt, sauce, etc. But I can't close this post without saying something nice, so here it is...

If you haven't tried it, Ottavio's Creamy Tomato Basil soup is insanity! So, so good!


(This blog post reflects only my very biased opinion. Please don't take offense if any of these places are your staple Friday restaurant! Also, I'm getting completely burnt out on eating-out, which is probably a good thing. Do you know of any places I probably haven't been? Suggestions are always welcome!)