Pistola just recently opened in the old AOC space on Third Street, just down from Joan’s on Third. Chef Vic Casanova along with partner Seth Glassman has created a warm stylish space serving Italian steakhouse classics. Pistola has a large bar to one side with wooden tables and white tablecloth dining in two rooms.
The waitstaff is very pleasant while still rehearsing their new roles. The menu starts with some familiar Italian favorites – Meatballs with Sunday Gravy, Charred Octopus, Calamari and a variety of salads.
The Little Gem Cacio e Pepe is Pistola’s version of the Classic Caesar with a lightly creamy dressing and grated parmesan. The crunch of the lettuce is always a satisfying start.
The pastas are all handmade in house and the list reads like your favorite Italian Novel, elegant and interesting. Squid Ink Agnolotti with Lobster, Shrimp, Scallops and Sea Urchin is a refreshing taste of the sea. The sea urchin lemon sauce is decadent and delightful and goes down so easily.
As for meat, well you have come to the right place. There are several cuts of beef including Tenderloin, Rib Eye, Delmonico and Tomahawk as well as Veal Parmigiana, Grilled Lamb Chops and a half Chicken. A intriguing list of sauces and butters can be ordered on the side to accommodate any taste.
The Rib Eye with a side of Bernaise was perfectly cooked with a seared outer crust. The sauce, though flavorful, was unnecessary, but a fun addition. The meat was a magnificent combination of fat and protein.
If you are not a meat eater, there are several seafood dishes including Trout, Orata, Sole and Lobster. For sides, you can get veggies, potatoes and polenta. The Asparagus in Fontina Fonduta was crunchy tender sitting in a small pool of cheese sauce. A nice accompaniment to our hearty beef.
Pistola, offers a great Italian style comfort food menu and Chef Casanova is cooking his best. The protein prices are high, but the quality is there. The Corkage fee for wine is $25 and they have an extensive wine list with full bar.
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