Pane e Bene

1620 Post Road East, Westport, CT

Closed Monday
Tuesday – Thursday: Noon to 10 p.m. Bar closes at 1 a.m.
Friday: Noon to 11 p.m. Bar closes at 1 a.m.
Saturday: 5 to 11 p.m. Bar closes at 1 a.m.
Sunday: 5 to 9 p.m. Bar closes at 11 p.m.

***** out of *****

$$$ out of $$$$

If you are a fan of authentic Italian food and the classic white tablecloth atmosphere that often comes with it, Pane e Bene is your new spot. It is incognito from the street and I have managed to drive past it several times and consequently had to turn around. Nonetheless, once inside, the large windows and relaxing scene manage to clear the mind. But getting down to what you need to know: The food is tremendous. Pasta is house-made and identical in taste and texture to the pasta in Italy. Oftentimes I find myself caught off guard when approached by the old school Italian owner, Angelo.  You will feel like you are in Italy. Keep in mind that half orders are available for the ultra-ambitious who want to order the whole menu. And definitely make a reservation … the space fills up!

Recommended First Course:

Con La Romano: Romaine lettuce, gorgonzola, walnuts, pears and balsamic vinaigrette. You couldn’t make it any better yourself. This course is crisp and refreshing. The pears add a nice sweetness to cut the sharp gorgonzola.

Recommended Pasta:

Gnocchetti Verdi Al Tartufo: Freshly made gnocchi in a black truffle cream sauce. This is easily in the top five gnocchi dishes I’ve had. It’s rich and full of flavor… you will mop it up with bread until the bowl is clean.

Ravioli Di Ricotta e Spinach Al Limoncello: Freshly made ricotta and spinach ravioli in a limoncello cream sauce. It is a slightly sweet dish that has a great ratio of ricotta and spinach.

Recommended Main Course:

Petto Di Pollo Capricciosa: Pounded and breaded chicken breast topped with fresh arugula, tomato and mozzarella salad. This is a very large portion but is very light for an entrée.

Recommended Dessert:

Limoncello-ricotta cheesecake with an amoretti cookie crust: This dish has an outstanding presentation and is heavy and satisfying. Perfect finale.

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