Casanova Grill (Italian)

Yesterday we visited Casanova Grill after discovering that The Hardshell Cafe on Route 73 closed for business. There were six of us. Since we weren't prepared, we had to stop to pick up wine on the way, so we didn't write down what we had.

They first brought out a nice antipasto sampler which included the most delicious olives we've tasted. Bread is brought warm with a dish of olive oil and spices. More olive oil is available at the table.

For appetizers we had the fried calamari which was delicately fried and served with a tangy marinara sauce, grilled calamari which was perfectly grilled and served with a lemon herb sauce, and mussels in white sauce.

Soup or salad comes with the meal. A couple of us chose the tomato basil soup, which was very tasty.

For entrees, Ken had Involtone di Manzo, which was "prime sirloin steak rolled and stuffed with spinach, prosciutto and mozzarella, baked and sliced, then sauteed with mushrooms and fresh rosemary in a Chianti wine sauce." It was delicious. Jay had the scallops special which came with five large grilled scallops on top of a yummy leek sauce.

If you like veal, try the Carciofi & Asparagi (sauteed with baby artichokes and asparagus in a wine and demi-glace sauce). The veal was very tender and the sauce complemented the veal.

We were offered Limoncello and Strawberrycello made by the chef as an ending to our meal. Both were delicious. The strawberry was especially good since it tasted like fresh strawberries.

For dessert, Jay had the Limoncello Tartufo (lemon sorbet covered with lemon rind with a liquid limoncello liquor center), which was a nice light ending to a perfect meal.

• Dress - casual.
• Service - excellent. Servers were very attentive and knowledgeable.
• Decor - Italian bistro. You can see your food being prepared.
• Portions - hefty.
• Price - see the website. Six people were able to eat for $160.
• Reservations - suggested.