Lusardi's

Lusardi's Restaurant Review:

This sophisticated yet casual neighborhood trattoria is usually crowded. We think that's with good reason: the Northern Italian fare is robust and reliable and the waitstaff hospitable. For starters, good choices are the grilled artichokes in olive oil, garlic and parsley; pepper-encrusted tuna served with cucumber and heirloom tomato salad; or steamed sweet sausage served warm in a mustard dressing with broccoli rabe and sun-dried tomatoes. Entrées include homemade whole-wheat tagliatelle with olive oil, chili pepper, garlic, basil and tomatoes; ravioli filled with wild salmon, asparagus, ginger and dill in a creamy lobster sauce; and almond-crusted filet of John Dory in martini sauce served over sautéed spinach. The menu also offers wild boar, venison and other game in season. Among the many desserts here are a chocolate-raspberry tart and homemade hazelnut ice cream. Lusardi's wine list is impressive for its assortment of Italian dessert wines and fire-like grappas.