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Iconic Establishments Freshen Menus to Stay Au Courant
EXECUTIVE DINING
ANTONELLO
1611 Sunflower Ave.
(in South Coast Plaza Village}
Santa Ana
(714) 751-7153
It dazzled in looks and food at its 1979 opening and is still one of our most important and beautifiil restaurants.
In keeping up with our changing attitudes toward food, items have been lightened by using more olive oil in lieu of less-healthy oils, less cream-influenced sauces and certainly less frying. The food has always been nicely presented, but I have trekked lately through a bunch of newly envisioned dishes and am so impressed with the sophistication in presentation and the supple blending of flavors.
This is a team on top of things, understanding well the balance that must prevail between the classical Italian dishes and some forward-thinking plates. The kitchen is headed by co-chefs Gino Buonanoce and Salvatore Ferrara, who work in tandem like a highly tuned machine. I've been at personal gatherings lately where they have received standing ovations.
Consider these new enticements on their menus: Carpaccio of octopus cooked and sliced ultra thin, drizzled with fresh lemon and olive oil, topped with wild arugula; pumpkin tortellini with mascarpone cheese and black truffles; combo of grilled salmon, swordfísh, shrimp and scallops (grigliata di pesce) served with spaghetti dressed with garlic, olive oil and chile pepper morsels; and then, there's the compelling plate of salumi misti comprised of thinly sliced porchetta (pork), aged San Daniele prosciutto, bresaola (air-dried beef) and fresh buttery mozzarella.
You must experience this if you are serious about finding out what deliciousness is all about in both the old beloved and the new visions on a plate. I appreciate so much the warmth and charm of owner Antonio Cagnolo and managing partner of Thad Foret, who have been personally coddling their customers for so many years, and they continue to make sure we leave smiling.
You will notice more relaxed uniforms for the staff: no more tuxes.
CANNERY SEAFOOD OF THE PACIFIC
3010 LaFayetïe Road
Newport Beach
(949) 566-0060
This restaurant - which is celebrating its 10th anniversary - was a diversion from owner Ron Salisbury's group of El Cholo restaurants.
Here you have a chic dining room with a combo of scattered tables and...