You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Garden City Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here’s this week’s choice:
LA NONNA BELLA: Lino DeVivo, born and raised in Conversano, Italy, knows all about authentic Italian food, and the chef-owner of La Nonna Bella wants Garden City residents to enjoy some of those dishes, made with the freshest, finest ingredients. If you don’t see what you want on their menu, or if you want something special, ask Chef DeVivo. If he has the ingredients, he will gladly make it for you. While you don’t have to be Italian to love this restaurant, it helps if you appreciate the difference between Americanized Italian food and truly authentic Italian food. Many of the dishes at La Nonna Bella originated from Lino’s hometown in southern Italy. His signature dish, Cavatelli Conversanese, is made with onion, fresh spinach and smashed fava beans; it continues to be a “smash” hit.
When De Vivo and his wife, Erica, bought the restaurant in November 2010, they kept the name because residents knew it, but changed some of the Italian-American dishes to emphasize more traditional recipes from Italy. For those who preferred the old menu, the "Founder’s Favorites" portion of the menu includes old-standbys like Eggplant Rollatini, Stuffed Shells and Ravioli Portobello. If you are not sure what you want, ask the hostess – or, better yet, see what Lino DeVivo recommends. 660 Franklin Avenue. 516-248-0366. Hours of Operation: Tuesday through Friday, noon to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 2 to 11 p.m., Sunday 2 to 9 p.m.
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