It was a last minute decision to go out to eat last weekend. We were driving around Clifton Hill area and noticed there were parking spots right in front of the Antica Pizzeria. We normally like to go places that our friends have recommended or referred us to but this time we just decided to check it out.
Apon first impression, the restaurant was well lit and nicely decorated. Since it was just after Christmas, there were two Christmas trees, one in the entrances and one in the bank dining room.
A young gentleman led us to a table in the center area of the restaurant and took our drink orders. I was disappointed to later find out that non-stop pop was not offered. Luckily I didn’t order a spicy item off the menu!
I ordered the penne a la vodka and Tim ordered the chicken parmesan. We also ordered a side salad to share. The server brought out the salad very quickly along with a basket of fresh bread. The salad was very good but I didn’t feel it was worth $6.99.
About ten minutes later our server brought our meals. They looked and smelled delicious! The food was hot which was great and the portions were just the right size. There is nothing worse than ordering a meal in a restaurant and being disappointed because the food is cold or tastes reheated. I was pleasantly surprised that this was not the case.
Though there were chillis and parmesan cheese on the table, it would have been nice to be offered fresh cheese on my dish. This is a minimal expense for the restaurant but would have made quite a difference in our satisfaction of our meals.
Once we finished our dishes our server offered us coffee/tea and dessert. I was surprised we were not offered a menu or pictures of the dessert items. I usually don’t eat dessert but I can be swayed by mouthwatering pictures and enticing descriptions. ;) We were than brought our bill. It came to just under $50 CDN. Not the most expense meal available in the Falls but not the cheapest earlier. If you decide to dine at Antica and splurge on desserts and alcoholic drinks you can expect to spend at least $75 CDN for a party of two with tax and tip.
As we walked to the front of the restaurant, a gentleman processed our payment. Later did we realize he was the owner of the building. He asked us if we were from the area, then told us that if we returned there was free parking around back. Wish I would have known this before! He continued to chit chat and ask about our meals mentioning that they are known for their wood-oven pizza and that they are planning to invest a large amount of money in restaurant improvements. Did he notice I was taking notes at our table or Tim was snapping pictures and video. Hmmm...not sure. I guess we will never know!
If you are in the Clifton Hill area Antica is a great dining option because though the price is a little on the high side, the location is convenient and the food is great! There is definitely something for everyone to enjoy on the menu.
