Bites Nearby: Il Villagio Trattoria Italiana

Whether you're looking for a new restaurant to try this weekend or you need a night off from cooking tonight as the work week comes to an end, Patch can help you find a great, local bite to eat.

Here's this week's choice:  

IL VILLAGIO TRATTORIA ITALIANA () Most residents of Malverne and surrounding areas know Antonio Bove for his delicious panini, pastas and large selection of dishes that he's been offering for years at his Italian-American deli on Hempstead Avenue in the center of the village. But just up the block, Bove serves up signature Italian dishes in a cozy yet sophisticated restaurant he opened, along with Marco Troiano in 2009.

At Il Villagio Trattoria Italiana, diners can savor upscale dishes at reasonable prices and order a wine and mixed drinks from the fully stocked bar. The menu includes appetizers, salads, soups, pastas, seafood, chicken, veal and beef such as Scaloppina Il Villagion, a veal scalopinni dish with shallots, eggplant and mozzarella and Bistecca di Manzo P/A — an Angus steak served with broccoli rabe and pan-fried homestyle potatoes. (Take a look at the photos to view the menu). Dessert and espresso is also available.

Its touches of Italy — crisp red and white linen table cloths, scenic paintings and dim lighting — make this a perfect place to unwind after a long day at work, catch up with old friends or enjoy a romantic date night.

366 Hempstead Ave., Malverne 516-792-6336 Open Tuesday - Friday, noon-9:30 p.m., Saturday 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sunday, 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Prices: $15 to $35 for entrees.  

Found a great place to dine? Let us know about it in the comments.