Guarino's Italian Restaurant

At Guarino's Restaurant in Little Italy, Italian food is the name of the game. Guarino's presents with good old fashioned Italian decadence that's generously dosed. Be prepared to get a drip or two of homemade marinara on your shirt-- it's that kind of Italian.

But don't mistake Guarino's relaxed atmosphere for a lack of class and ambiance. With soft lighting attentive service, Guarino's is fancy without being frilly. It's perfect for dinner dates or supper with the family—even the kids—any night of the week.

This quaint eatery is the oldest in Cleveland. Founded in 1918, this popular restaurant serves tens of thousands of guests each year, boasting the richest of sauces and old-world style cooking that true Italian fans appreciate.

The prosciutto-wrapped shrimp, steamed mussels in a reduction of white wine and simple fried mozzarella cheese make perfect starters to any meal. Other appetizer choices include escargot, calamari and a delicious antipasto platter that is sure to have you anticipating the arrival of your meal because your mouth will be so tantalized.

The gnocchi pesto, with basil, olive oil and parmesan cheese; veal picatta with lemon, wine and capers; chicken Parmigiana with robust marinara and melted mozzarella; ricotta cheese stuffed manicotti; lasagna alla Guarino; and spaghetti bolganese are popular pasta favorites at Guarino's—for good reason. Everything here is made from scratch, just like in the Italian old country.

Other popular entrees include veal saltibocca with prosciutto, onions and cheese in a franciase sauce; lamb chops with white wine reduction and risotto; veal ossobucco baked in brandy with vegetables; and seafood pasta with shrimp, scallops, crab and clams in marinara or olive oil.

Sandwiches like meatball marinara and BLTs are also available and are great for lunch or a lighter dinner appetite.

Dress is casual and reservations are helpful, especially on busy weekends. An extensive wine list is available.

 

- by LeeAnn Mullen, Cleveland Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

LeeAnn Mullen

LeeAnn Mullen is a freelance journalist from Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism is currently furthering her education by studying for an additional degree in information systems management. Mullen has written for several Cleveland-area newspapers, online publications and dozens of private clients. Her topics of specialty include health, technology and travel.