The very nice couple who brought us Haven in Brookhaven, have done it again with Valenza. And this place is romantic with stucco walls, hardwood plank floors, and a warm glow of candelight. And Chef Matt Swickerath, formerly of the Ritz-Carlton, has created a rustic menu of delights. We could not resist the Fritto Misto to start. Perfect pieces of calamari, prawns, halibut, lemon, capers and parley, with a wonderful aioli. The taste buds were throbing at this point. I had the Pesce Spada, which is a grilled Swordfish w/Blood Orange, Grapefruit, over fennel greens. Unbeliebeable, with the blended flavors. My date had the Ossobuco-the Veal Shank was fall off the bone, w/saffron risotto. And spreading that bone marrow over the bread, was pure heaven. The wine list, our wonderful server, and this menu-made an evening to remember. Crowds will be coming here soon!
Pros: Excellent Chef Driven Menu! Rustic, Romantic and Just Terrific! Swordfish Is Wonderful!
Cons: Could Eat Here Every Night! Very Dangerous!
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