Bites Nearby: Toscana Ristorante in Eastchester

Next time you find yourself hungry and standing on a street corner looking around for a restaurant sign that draws you in, stop. We've got a better solution to finding the tastiest bites around: Each week, Bronxville-Eastchester Patch will pick a great restaurant either in town or nearby that we think is worth checking out.

Here's this week's choice:

Toscana Ristorante - 214 Main St. Eastchester

When you first arrive at Toscana, you're instantly struck by the lush and lovely Romanesque, a genteel combination of traditional old-world with modern overtones, from the knowledgeable service staff to kitchen flavors that can mesmerize your palate.

Their charming landscaped outdoor patio is open for cocktails and dining and Chef/owner Michele Lepore is most passionate about his culinary repertoire and insists on preserving the 'old fashioned traditions.'

You sense it immediately with the arrival of complimentary tastes of Tuscan beans and focaccia as you consider the menu.

Changing specialties include: Carciofe alla Romana, baked artichokes hearts; Pappardelle Don Bosco, with pancetta, onion and mushrooms; Quaglie Perugine, grilled Hudson Valley quail served over mushroom truffle risotto; and Salmone Cremonese, brushed with a blend of mustard fruits over mashed spinach, garlic and Tuscan beans.

All of their deserts are made on the premesis, fresh everyday.

One customer reccomends the alfesco dining, "went there last week with my husband. Great food! I totally recommend the SANGRIA!!!!! and definitely sit outside its beautiful and very relaxing and quiet," stated this satisfied Sangria lover from yelp.com.

For a more interactive introduction to the restaurant for those who have not been, check out this youtube video that shows a quick four minute slideshow of many of the dishes offered at the restaurant.

Toscana Ristorante is open seven days a week, Monday - Friday from noon - 10 p.m.; Saturdays from noon - 11 p.m. and a Sunday Brunch from 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

For more information including menus and specials, visit their webpage at toscana-ristorante.com or call them at 914-361-1119.