One hot day while traveling North on Route 9W, being thirsty, hungry and realizing I was missing one of the world cup soccer games, I decided to stop just North of Rockland Lake to try a restaurant called La Tristina. I was immediately impressed by the owner, Jimmy's hospitality. He set me up at the bar, gave me a bottle of Pellegrino water on the house and immediately put on the game. Although the dining room was busy and there was a party in the outdoor tent, the service and attention I received was amazing, although I was unknown and very casually dressed. The hospitality was so accomodating that it was only surpassed by the delicious meal I had. A week or 2 later i went back with my wife and we've been hooked ever since. We have gone to La Tristina for quick casual meals, special family dinners and holidays. And everytime, I have received amazing service, food, and genuine old world hospitality. I have tried many different items on the menu, and have always been thrilled with the authentic home cooked flavors, and nuances of every dish.We decided to give La tristina a try for our son's christening. We had over a 150 people and believe it or not the service, food (abundance of food) and care during that event was every bit as good as if we were having a quiet, intimate dinner for 2. Since then, we have had our son's 1st, 2nd and 3rd bday parties there, in-laws 50th wedding anniversary and have attended weddings, sweet 16s, bar/bat mitzvah, as well as charity events, new years eve, and even superbowl parties. Everything from soup to nuts, the appetizers, specials and desserts have always been fresh and delicious. Jimmy, Peggy, Laura, Kelly, Lana, Lumar, Jinette, Gabby, Schiepe, Roberto, Sonny, and Chef Mario worked together to make everything at La Tristina a true family dining experience, wether it is a quick meal for one/two or a huge event for 300.
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