I stepped into the newly opened Dominic’s Ristorante Italiano in downtown Phoenixville and was immediately transported to Caserta, Italy. Owner Dominic Tammaro’s parents emigrated from the city just North of Naples and instilled in him a deep sense of pride and history for the region. The restaurant is decorated with Dominic’s parent’s wedding photos as well as their antique wine making equipment. The menu also reflects his roots.
Dominic has always made his living in the construction and renovations of homes, but he loved to cook authentic Italian meals for his family. His wife, Barbara, encouraged him to finally follow his dream to open a restaurant and Dominic’s Ristorante Italiano was born. Dominic has brought his Phoenixville born and raised children into the business as well. Daughter Elizabeth is the Manager and Chrissy waitresses a few nights a week. Additionally, Elizabeth’s husband, Bob, is the Pantry Chef, managing the salads, appetizers and dessert stations.
Not having much experience in the restaurant business was not a deterrent for this family with a culinary dream. They promptly hired a consultant chef, Gianfranco Caruso, a native of Sardinia, to help develop the menu, which focuses on the authentic flavors of Italy. From the salads to the antipasti to the fresh pasta, this menu does not disappoint. I sampled a few items from the menu and these were the standouts.
Mediterranea
Greens served with cucumbers, tomatoes, house roasted peppers, onion, pepperoncini, olives, feta cheese and salami dressed in a simple, yet flavorful balsamic reduction. It is large enough to share with the whole table to start the meal.
Calamari Fritti
The calamari is sparingly breaded and fried yielding crisp tender pieces of squid in a light, crispy batter. Served with a bed of greens in a lemon and oil dressing and a side of marinara, this is not your typical chain restaurant fried calamari.
Gnocchi al Tartufo
House made black truffle gnocchi in a cream sauce served with prosciutto. This dish was earthy, rich and completely satisfying. I suggest possibly ordering this dish to share as an appetizer. It is not to be missed.
Zuppa di Pesce
A plate of linguine overflowing with calamari, large shrimp, clams, scallops and mussels, topped with a slightly sweet marinara that is offset by garlic and fresh basil. If you like seafood, this dish is for you. Usually I find dishes like this are heavy on the pasta and light on the seafood. This dish was opposite in ratio.
Cannoli
Of course, no Italian meal is complete without a delicious cannoli. The light and flaky pastry shell was filled with creamy ricotta and dots of chocolate chips. The plate was finished with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and dollops of fresh made whipped cream.
In keeping with Dominic’s family traditions, each diner is offered a complimentary shot of house made limoncello to cap off the dining experience, cleanse the palate and ease in digestion. It was the perfect end to my meal.
Dominic’s is located in the former Daddy Mim’s space at 150-152 Bridge Street and much press has circulated that this restaurant is co-owned and operated by Chef and restaurateur John Mims. Dominic’s daughter Elizabeth explained to me that the restaurant space was sub-leased from John Mims, but is solely owned and operated by the Tammaro family.
Dominic’s Ristorante Italiano is BYOB, open Tuesday through Saturdays for dinner; Sundays are reserved for private parties. Look for lunch hours and outdoor seating when the weather warms up. The restaurant also offers catering services.
Visit Dominic’s Ristorante Italiano at 150-152 Bridge Street in Phoenixville; phone (610) 983-4300. Be sure to “like” them on Facebook too!
Photo credits: Ronna Dewey.
Thanks to Dominic’s Ristorante Italiano for providing complimentary food for this tasting feature.
