On a frigid February evening we ventured out to seek the warmth of some comfort food and the company of good friends. We wanted some classic Italian food and had heard about Lombardi’s Trattoria right over the New York border in Connecticut.
While known for its delicious wood fired pizza, many diners come here for their old fashion and classic Italian cuisine. The chef also gets creative with some twists on dishes that keep the classic Italian menu interesting.

Lombardi’s Trattoria is owned by the same family for twelve years and are originally from a town near the isle of Capri in Italy. All the dishes have that homemade touch and the sauces, pastas and the desserts are made by the chefs. The fresh baked bread that started our meal was soft and delicious and served with olive oil. It was an indication of the meal that lay ahead.
There is a raw bar for seafood lovers filled with fresh fish daily. I had to try the fresh lobster cocktail which was a raw bar menu special that evening. Two tender lobster tails with a light red sauce was presented over crushed ice and lemon wedges. It was delightful.

We also shared a delicious eggplant rollatini with three cheeses and herbs in their signature marinara sauce. This would make a great entree. It was excellent. Our other appetizer choice was Maryland Crabcakes that were light and crispy with a perfect pairing with a creamy remoulade sauce, and finished in the brick oven for a tasty crispy taste.

For the main entree I chose a special for the evening which was blackened sea scallops over saffron rice with spinach, sundried tomatoes and topped with roasted garlic. This was truly a delicious and tasty dish and had the perfect blend of herbs and spices. It too was finished before serving in the brick oven.

Another choice was Chicken Saltimbocca with proscioutto de parma and aged provolone in a sage and white wine sauce with mashed potatoes and veggies. On the menu this dish is Veal Saltimbocca but the chef was happy to substitute chicken instead. It is a pleasure when the kitchen will alter the menu to keep the diner happy. The dish was really great.
Chicken Marsala with fresh mushrooms with a side of pasta rounded out entrees. The portion was large and tasted like Mama made it. A number of the dishes are finished off prior to serving in the wood fired brick oven and add a special flavor to each dish.

We were having such a good time that we had to try dessert as they are freshly made at the restaurant. The tiramisu is not to be missed as it was light and airy and one of the best I have tasted in some time. Another fun dessert was the flaming creme brulee which was impressive not only in its presentation but taste as well.

Trattoria Lombardi’s is a casual place that caters to families, groups of friends, and couples with a friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere. It is a family owned place that cares about its customers and wants you to be happy and feel like you are part of the family.

Trattoria Lombardi
22 Main Street Reading Ct (just off Rt 7 and the Ridgefield border)
203-544-9447
http://www.lombarditrattoria.com

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