Finalmente: At Long Last, Love

After a wait of over two years, Finalmente Trattoria Italiana & Wine Bar has now been open five weeks. On reflection, that doesn't seem too long to wait for perfection.

Owner Danny Damiano looks like Bobby Flay, and has spent his life in the restaurant business. He's worked his way up, and learned everything there is to know about running a fine restaurant from his successful dad. This care and knowledge shows in every aspect of Finalmente, from the chic Manhattan exterior to the attractive plating of every dish. Tarrytown resident Damiano has some very special secret weapons, including using only fresh fruit juice in his drinks, in the quest to make his establishment the best in town.

His choice of Chef Donato Deserio ensured that a true Italian would be running the kitchen, a rare situation these days. Chef Deserio, originally from Mola Di Bari, insists on only the freshest ingredients, and will accept no less from his suppliers. Nothing here is ever frozen, and even the Biscotti are made on the premises.

It's not surprising that Damiano is planning a garden for the springtime. He professes a real dedication to using local product – coffee and equipment come from Coffee Labs, and even the bread is baked nearby, brought in daily from The Bread Factory in New Rochelle. Served with olive oil and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, it tempts the diner to overindulge. But instead, sit contemplating the huge mural of Botticelli's ladies playing cards, and save room; there's a whole adventure of good eating to follow.

Prices here are reasonable, and portions are generous (some dishes pictured are half orders). Sharing is fun and encouraged, so start with the cold antipasto for two. This is a feast for both the eye and mouth, a delightful combination of lemony white anchovies, wafer thin prosciutto, crunchy walnuts, two kinds of tangy olives, and both blue and parmesan cheese, with radiccio for a snap of color.

Next, try the Tortine di Granchio,  slightly spicy mini crab cakes with a crispy covering, and a melt in your mouth interior. It's presented on a bed of frisee, served with roasted and smoked peppers, capers, and a tangy lime dipping sauce. Delicious.

On to the Timballo, baked pasta layered with béchamel and Bolognese sauces, topped with fresh Parmesan. Irresistible.   

It would be unfair to choose a favorite, but do not leave without trying the Pappardelle al Forestale. I bow to no one in my love of pasta, but until I tried the wide, ribboned  fettucine here, I had not lived. Wild boar with grape tomato and blueberry grappa sauce enhance these sublime noodles.

I am over the moon for Luna d'Aragosta, lobster ravioli served with a delicate pink cognac sauce. Delectable.

If the specials include Filetto di Spigola Marechiaro, immediately order this piquant, flaky sea bass, served on a bed of spinach, and accompanied by tiny clams.

You will now think you are full, but to miss the desserts at Finalmente is a sin. The espresso is, of course, very strong, but it's also the best I've had, very smooth and a great compliment to the sweet dishes to follow.

When Giovanni, the gracious and knowledgeable maitre d', recommended the Panacotta, we knew we had a winner. The texture of the dish is like a richer, creamier version of flan, and surrounded by blueberries, raspberries, and strawberry, it is beautiful to behold. You will feel you are eating a cloud. I recommend proposing over this heavenly delight.

You cannot leave without sampling the Tiramisu. What can be a pedestrian choice elsewhere is, at Finalmente, the perfect ending to the perfect meal. Exquisite.

Word is catching on fast. Be advised to come either early or late on Friday and Saturday nights. Arrive at 8pm, and you may have a two-hour wait. Parking meters are a quarter guzzling nightmare at lunch time, but the problem goes away after 6pm, and on weekends.

Danny Damiano has added immeasurably to the Sleepy Hollow renaissance, and he has even bigger plans for this bistro. Stay tuned for a lively after hours scene with panini, and other surprises to come.

This restaurant is Danny's dream, and we are all privileged to share it with him… Finalmente!