Al Dente

Frommer's Review

Since the closing of some of its competitors in 2003, this is now the oldest continuously operated Italian restaurant in Puerto Rico, with a clientele that includes an awe-inspiring number of high-pressure lawyers, politicians, and judges every day at lunch, and a more leisurely crowd of friends and romantics every night at dinner. The venue includes a friendly and accommodating bar area near the entrance, a warm-toned color scheme of scarlets and blues, and a replica of a brightly painted Sicilian fishing boat -- personally crafted by the owner -- hanging on one of the walls. Sicily-born Giancarlo Amenta and his Puerto Rican wife Margie are the owners, fusing with skill the aesthetics of their respective countries. The relatively short list of culinary staples is enhanced with a changing array of daily specials, leading to a choice of dishes that's more varied than the relatively abbreviated menu might suggest. Your meal might include osso buco, house-made ravioli, rib-eye steak, several kinds of risotto (including versions with crayfish, Portobello mushrooms, or Parmesan cheese), calamari with polenta, and arancini di spinachi fritti (an old Sicilian specialty and one of the restaurant's bestsellers -- spinach balls with rice, ricotta cheese, and pink sauce). Note the large-scale paintings that decorate the dining room. Executed by Margie Alcaraz Amenta herself, who will likely be on hand to greet you when you arrive, they're for sale, selling briskly at prices that range from between $2,000 and $4,500 each.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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