CityView Magazine - Fayetteville, NC
Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/1334212
CityViewNC.com | 39 I f the essence of Antonella's Italian Ristorante were reflected in song, it would be Frank Sinatra's lively "Fly Me to the Moon" followed by the heart and soul of Etta James' "At Last." e Antonella's experience begins on a high note, like a giddy first date on a moonlit night. e chemistry is palpable before the appetizer arrives. Laughter ensues during the main course. By the time a sinful dessert is shared, fireworks fill the air. Cue to holding hands while gazing into each other's eyes. At last. It's possible to witness the scene on most any night, even in the age of COVID. Even from couples who have been together for decades. e spark. Reignited. Along with the promise of lives joined together as we witness marriage proposals. In the little corner bistro at 300 Hay Street. at makes owner Antonella Giannone Scibilia a special brand of happy. Since opening in December 2017, she has been approached about "going bigger," but that's not part of her plan. e restaurant's charm lies in the beauty and intimacy of the 37-seat dining room with carefully curated vignettes a la the lovely Antonella, well-spaced tables with fresh flowers, and piped-in music from opera greats to crooners of a bygone era. An outdoor patio for 24 is warmed by fire pits, radiating a romantic glow. Antonella's blends the best of modern and nostalgia. Although the menu largely relies on the flavors of Southern Italy and Antonella's Sicilian family recipes, lasagna and spaghetti with meatballs sneak in to satisfy select palates. One day, Antonella was experimenting in her kitchen when she invented the baked lasagna dip with crostini bread for dipping, which ended up becoming her most requested appetizer for sharing. But make no mistake, the star of the show is seafood. Enjoy starters of sweet and spicy basil-fried calamari or the shrimp scampi, salads topped with seared citrus salmon, and entrées of stuffed flounder or grouper in positively addictive sauces. e Frutti di Mare, served on a white fish-shaped platter, brings together shrimp, mussels, scallops and calamari in a spicy tomato sauce over spaghetti. 910.483.1196 www.HolmesSecurity.net THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOLMES! The Name You've Trusted for 113 Years