Go east, dear reader, to Il Mulino New York in Boca Raton.
At the popular new restaurant – serving the Abruzzo region of Italy’s take on pastoral, mountain and coastal recipes – you’ll find a welcoming, sophisticated dining experience.
When you tear yourself away from the vibrant social scene, fine wines by the glass and handcrafted cocktails at the bar, take a seat in the cozy dining area. There, you’re treated to unparalleled, personal service and impeccable cuisine that leaves you longing for a trip to Italy.
Your culinary journey begins with a selection of tempting complimentary appetizers, including crispy fried zucchini chips; bruschetta; and slivers of Grana Padano cheese, aged 18 months.
What distinguishes the food at Il Mulino is an emphasis on preparation, which brings out the true flavor of the ingredients – using the perfect balance of each. Begin with antipasti: The light and fresh Clams Oreganata and Eggplant Romana are rare finds, and we also recommend the variety of ceviche, including Halibut, Red Shrimp and Tuna.
Feeling posh? Go for the Baeri Royal caviar and then move on to the classic Caesar salad, which is prepared tableside.
Fresh seafood entrées abound at Il Mulino, including standout dishes like the Jumbo Black Tiger Shrimp (Oreganata or Francese), Dover Sole, Langostino, Red Snapper Livornese, Branzino and the sumptuous Grilled Mixed Seafood.
The Colorado Rack of Lamb, carved tableside, is exceptional, as is the Single Veal Chop, served with roasted potatoes, sage, shallots and garlic butter. Steaks are also tender and juicy at Il Mulino, and chicken dishes are fan favorites, especially the Chicken Parmigiana, served pounded thin and on the bone.
Order pasta for the table to share. Two crowd-pleasers include the Bucatini All’ Amatriciana (a thick, spaghetti-like pasta made with cherry tomatoes, guanciale, rosemary, Pecorino cheese and black pepper) and the Spaghetti Alle Vongole (spaghetti with clams).
Missing dessert at Il Mulino is a culinary sin. I swooned over the Zabaglione con Frutti di Bosco – a warm Italian custard with marsala wine, prepared tableside with seasonal berries – and the Ricotta Cheesecake. This delectable take on the classic dessert ends a stellar dining experience at Il Mulino on exactly the right note. O
Il Mulino New York is located at 451 E. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-338-8606 or visit ilmulino.com/boca-raton.