Tony’s Restaurant Reviews

This new(er) gem of a restaurant is located near O’Hare and began as a sandwich/pizza place with a handful of tables; it has since expanded to a corner location a few doors down from their original location which is now a gelato/dessert place. My original reaction to the place was ok when I tried one of their red sauce pastas for lunch, but going to the expanded venue brought some surprises.

As a melanzane “expert” I know that variations on a theme are ever present when this dish is atempted. You can run the gamut from the best breaded version at La Scarola, to mediocre, under-cooked and under-prepared variations at local pubs. The latter should stop trying. Nonna Silvia’s though does a very decent job with their recipe. Pastas are well prepared (more or less al dente), and tomato sauces fresh and flavorful. Bread basket is ok, and wine choices adequate.

Pizza looked good, with nice thin crust – next time. I would also recommend the pumpkin ravioli with a creamy tomato goat cheese sauce. My lunch guest enjoyed the fried calamari and I have to respect her judgement as she is on her own quest for the perfect calamari.

1400 South Canfield

Park Ridge, ILÂ

(847)292-9970

www.nonnasilvias.com

This Park Ridge Mexican restaurant has the motto “simply delicious Mexican food” – and they live up to their motto. I have been going there semi-frequently for the past several years and their consistency can’t be beat; so I decided to finally put in on the site.

Some of my favorites include pollo with mole’ sauce – the rich, dark kind, and their egg dishes. I am addicted to their corn chips and salsa, so I pass on any additional tortillas with my entree. The salsa is just spicy enough.

They are building a new restaurant on Prospect just south of the train crossing which is supposed to be completed by July 2005. Plans include an open air patio so you will be able to find me there on warm days enjoying their excellent guacamole with a margarita.

146 Euclid
Summit Shopping Mall
Park Ridge, IL 60068
(847) 518-0747

Closed Mondays

half-block south of the Park Ridge Metra train station just east of the street bordering the rr tracks

Bull S. Saavedra and family are the owners – and they are always there to keep an eye on the service – I wonder what the S stands for – could it be…………..?