Anthony's Ristorante and Wine Bar: Serving only the finest fare in Little Italy

Located in one of Cleveland's most famous neighborhoods, Anthony's Ristorante and Wine Bar is pure romantic perfection. From the warmth of the candlelight to the soft lull of Italian music to the clinking of wine glasses, Anthony's is the ideal place to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or just any day at all.

Start your Anthony's Ristorante with one of their tantalizing appetizers paired with an exquisite wine. The Caprese salad combines fresh, briny mozzarella cheese with juicy, ripe tomatoes and garden-fresh basil and is drizzled with an olive oil and balsamic vinegar reduction, and the Cubinelle Crostada features sweet peppers sauteed in olive oil, melted aged provolone cheese and a crisp crostada with chive-flavored olive oil. Other excellent starter options include classic fried provolone chunks with homemade marinara, jumbo shrimp cocktail with homemade cocktail sauce, and an asparagus alfredo Italian flatbread with caramelized onion and fresh rosemary.

Anthony's entree options combine familiar Italian favorites like spaghetti and meatballs and eggplant or chicken parmesan with delightfully unique choices like kiwi-mango chicken. Among the most popular menu items are the veal marsala with fresh mushrooms, asparagus and tender risotto; chicken franchaise-- an egg-battered chicken breast sauteed with olive oil and lemon and served over a bed of tender angel hair pasta; cavatappi with a savory bolganaise sauce; and portobello mushroom ravioli in a veal demi glace.

Be sure to ask your server for wine pairing recommendations if you don't know which varietal to choose. Our favorites include the Di Lenardo pinot grigio, the Tenuta Giglio Montepulciano and the Montalbano Chianti.

It's easy to overstuff yourself at any restaurant and not leave room for dessert, but doing so at Anthony's just isn't an option. With traditional dessert options like cheesecake, tiramisu and cannoli, it's hard to resist the temptation of a sweet ending to your Anthony's meal. If you're looking for something a bit different to end your meal, Anthony's claims that they have "arguably the best gelato in town"-- and I tend to agree. The cappuccino flavor (if it's featured on the day of your visit) is simply amazing, and the chocolate flavors are equally out-of-this-world.

It's always best to plan reservations if you're attending Anthony's for dinner, especially on busy weekends. To make reservations, call (216) 791-0700. A private party room is also available and is perfect for engagement parties, rehersal dinners, birthday or anniversary celebrations or even small wedding receptions. To inquire about Anthony's party room and catering services, ask for Deanna at the same number.

HelloCleveland Tip: Dress at Anthony's Ristorante and Wine Bar is business casual and valet parking is available.

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