DiNardo’s Ristorante Italiano has become a staple in the community
BY ABBE WICHMAN
Frank Salvi, owner and chef at Pound Ridge’s DiNardo’s Ristorante Italiano, says he knows what it takes to have a successful restaurant. “You have to have a passion and be willing to do everything from being in the front of the restaurant to greet customers, to working in the kitchen.” The restaurant, which recently celebrated its 43rd year in town, has maintained its loyal customer base and attracts newcomers with a dedicated owner and a menu that celebrates traditional Italian dishes and offers inventive specials.
The dining room, with burnished orange walls, sepia photos of Italy, and white tablecloths, provides an atmosphere that is relaxing and homey. And the food is a reflection of both what Salvi grew up with and his annual visits to Italy to get new ideas. My meal started with the customary warm bread with an olive oil and vinegar dip, and then I sampled a plentiful appetizer of fried calamari and zucchini.
I tried both classic and new entrees—the best-selling lasagna and a special with Taglierini pasta, sausage, and butternut squash. Everything was delicious. And while it’s not served in the rear dining room, stop into the front section and try one of DiNardo’s tried-and-true pizzas.
This article appears in the July/August 2017 issue of TownVibe Bedford