~ Delicious eating and delightful service ~
Need to feel like the centre of the universe while dining on excellent food? Want to impress a group or that special someone? Want to make your dinner an event to remember? Then look no further than L’Isola Ristorante Italiano in Pelican Resort, next to Hollywood Casino.
We planned our night out to be just that – an event. Three couples gathering for a Saturday night of fine food, warm conversation and charming atmosphere. Our waitress was so sweet and enthusiastic, and our bartender was also very friendly and a little bit crazy. They both plied us with shots of limoncello and a chef-made spicy cinnamon liqueur, and in the spirit of Italian hospitality, they joined us in downing the little missiles. At one point, my friend said, “I don’t know what you are trying to do to us, but we like it!”
Some complimentary tapas arrived, bruschetta with tapenade, tiny mushrooms and caper seeds. These went round the table several times with positive comments, especially the caper seeds which were new to most of us and quite surprising in both flavour and texture: Spicy, lemony chewy and full of tiny seeds.
We indulged in all kinds of items off the menu. Our appetizers included a Caesar salad which was very tasty and crisp with a rich Parmigiano dressing, and a gorgeous shrimp cocktail served elegantly in a tall stemware glass and some salmon carpaccio. The entrees ranged from Frito Misto, a mixed delight of tempura fried shrimp, calamari and vegetables, to lamb chops.
The top pick for the table was a chef’s special: Risotto with oyster mushrooms and shrimp, which proved to be rich and delicious. Too stuffed for any dessert, the waitress suggested a tiramisu to be shared amongst us all. She was so sure we would be pleased by the delicious dessert that we couldn’t refuse – and indeed, the tiramisu was the perfect topper to a fantastic dining experience.
Having spent at least three hours enjoying the food, the staff, and the evening, we prepared to say good night and go our separate ways. To our surprise, we were given hugs by the bartender, waitress and manager. We were made to feel so special that I can do no less than recommend L’Isola as highly as possible for excellent service, food and enjoyment. Do try them out soon, and watch for the opening of an adjoining pizza bar which is sure to be very popular.
Info:
L’Isola Ristorante Italiano
Hollywood Cafe, Pelican Resort
Billy Folly Road 37
Simpson Bay
Phone: 554-3872
Hours: Open every day
6:00-11:00pm
Cuisine: Classic Italian Cuisine
Pasta, seafood, steaks, chicken, lamb and salads. Coming soon: pizza.
Good: Food and service and atmosphere
Price range: Appetizers $8-15
Main courses $17-25
Desserts $5-8
Reservations: Recommended in high season
Credit cards: Visa, MC
Children’s menu: Pasta and pizza!
Vegetarian dishes: Available
Staff friendliness *****
Service speed ****
Restaurant cleanliness*****
Food quality *****
Value for money ****
Ambience ****
