We are fortunate in Orange to have such a truly exceptional authentic Italian restaurant serving many old world original Italian dishes.{{more}}
We admire Gabriele’s straight forward approach to its Italian tradition, which is reflected both in the atmosphere and menu.
Gabrielle Vilono has been the owner of Gabriele’s Ristorante in Orange for the last 25 years, before that the restaurant was located in West Haven on the Boston Post Rd. for 17 years.
Upon entering Gabriele’s, you are always greeted by the friendly staff dressed neatly in black.
This particular evening we were greeted by Tina Negron, who seated us in the front dining room which is a separate room from the main dining area. The two dining areas combined can serve up to 135 customers. The décor is tastefully simple in shades of dark wood, and mustard colored walls.
After looking over the main menu we were handed the daily specials, which were distinctly different. This evening they offered appetizers such as stuffed artichoke with sausage, porchetta served over broccoli rabe, the traditional cannelloni stuffed with veal, sausage, beef, spinach and ricotta. Sumptuous entrees such as picked lobster sautéed with shallots and sage in brandy cream sauce served over pappardelle, sweet potato gnocchi and swordfish served over spaghetti squash with sundried tomato pesto.
We started our meal with a glass of white zinfandel wine, then we were served thick crusted bread, served hot and made on premises, accompanied with olive oil and cheese for dipping. We than shared an appetizer, grilled sausage with onions, garlic, hot and sweet peppers with small potatoes served with wedges of thick crusted savory bread.
Our appetizer could certainly have been our meal, the flavor ranged from delicate to fierce for those who like spicy, this is a must. Next we were served a delicious Italian salad with the freshest ingredients.
Roberts order was the veal saltimbocca topped with mozzarella in a Marsala wine sauce with prosciutto and onions served over spinach.
The veal was very tender and the wine gravy complimented the veal and vegetables, with just the right amount of flavor. There were certainly moans of delight from Robert.
My order was the tilapia, served with fresh tomatoes and capers over risotto. The tilapia was very fresh in taste overflowing with contrasting flavors and textures, delightfully amusing to the palate, Kudos to Chef Charlie DeRosa!
It then came time for dessert, how could we not. We decided to order the tiramisu, which is lady fingers dipped in a mixture of espresso, kahlua, and rum topped with whipped marscapone cheese. This was creatively presented in a tall attractive goblet. Then to end our meals we both ordered decafe cappuccino, served in a large mug with a sugar dip stick, and an Italian almond cookie. It was a perfect ending to a fantastic meal.
Gabriele’s has a very active bar area also.
Gabriele’s is very passionate and knowledgeable in business. They are committed to superior products and outstanding service which continues to build strong relationships in Orange and throughout Connecticut.
Gabriel’s is located at 326 Boston Post Road.
Two Guy’s are Vincent Farricelli and Robert Modena. Both reside in Orange and have agreed to share their restaurant adventures.