Situated close to the antique shops in Nyack, a few blocks from the main intersection, is Lanterna, a lovely, intimate, red-brick walled bistro, serving Tuscan, northern Italian food. A minimalist atmosphere—white walls, gently circulating overhead fans, hardwood floors—create a mood that is both relaxing and charming.
For starters, I had cestino di parmigiano, an edible basket made of dough and Parmesan cheese, filled with mixed salad greens, goat cheese, and topped with prosciutto. The dough basket was so fresh that Parmesan cheese particles peeled off to the touch, melting gloriously under the tongue.
The calamari alla griglia, fresh-grilled calamari with endive, tomato and pesto sauce, which my dining companion loved, was beautifully presented—with rolled calamari—and the pesto sauce, rich with basil and olive oil, was truly outstanding.
A well-seasoned white bean, spinach, carrot and potato soup stood out as one of the best soups I’ve tasted. It was fine, light, and served over a slice of thick-crust bread. The service throughout the meal was pleasant and the owners, the Giannini family, make guests feel at home, with chef Rossano Giannini coming by the table, chatting with everyone.
For a main course, I had dentice al carciofi, red snapper, sautéed with white wine, fresh artichokes, chopped tomato and roasted potatoes. The vegetable medley was well-seasoned and well-prepared; the fish itself, ordinary. My companion tried a beef dish, tagatto con porcini, beef pounded into thin slices, rolled and stuffed with fresh mozzarella that was tender and tasty. The meat practically melted in your mouth.
Just when we thought nothing could be better, out came chef Rossano with two scrumptious desserts: tiramisu and a flourless chocolate cake torte, with a molten chocolate interior.
LANTERNA
3 South Broadway, Nyack, NY
(845) 353-8361