By ROBIN DOHRN-SIMPSON
Not every Italian restaurant will stir their daily pasta into an $800 wheel of authentic Parmigiano Reggiano, but at Aromi, your server will swirl the pasta into a meal of creamy deliciousness. If you prefer, they will do the same thing with an earthy Pecorino Cheese wheel also straight from Italy. This table-side experience delights everyone in the restaurant, especially those lucky diners where the presentation takes place.
Aromi translates to Aroma in English and when you walk in the door and the distinct aromas of Italian cuisine that we all love will greet you: Oregano, Basil, Rosemary, and Thyme to name a few.
Located in La Mesa, off I-8 and 70th Street/Lake Murray Blvd, the owners, already restaurant veterans, were excited when this prime restaurant location came up for sale. They jumped on it and spent 40 intense days remodeling every part of the restaurant.
“We wanted to bring our love of Italian cuisine to our patrons, ” said Francesco Mancino, partner/chef.
Aromi’s menu features dishes from different regions of Italy. Using only the freshest ingredients, the salads are crisp and full of colorful vegetables and fruits. The pastas are fresh, and they offer gluten-free pastas. An extensive wine list rounds out the menu and provides perfect food pairings.
Some entree highlights include Cioppino a delicious stew of clams, mussels, and squid fish cooked with tomatoes. For a comfort food dish try the Gnocchi Sorrentina made with a soft and light potato gnocchi, marinara sauce, pesto, and fresh mozzarella. A Southern Italian favorite dish is the Parmigiana Melanzane with sliced eggplant layered with parmesan cheese and tomato sauce and baked to perfection.
If you still have room for dessert, the tiramisu, originally from Venice, now known worldwide, is made at your table with ladyfingers, coffee, and a whipped mixture of eggs, sugar, and mascarpone cheese.
Dinner is served daily from 3:30 – 9:30 p.m. Try Aromi for brunch Friday through Sunday from 11 am – 3 p.m. A salmon Benedict, a Prosciutto Benedict, or a variety of Paninis, as well as plates of pasta, are on the menu.
Bring a sweater and enjoy outdoor patio dining during our warm summer nights.
Aromi Restaurant is located at 7200 Parkway in La Mesa. Reservations are recommended. Call them at (619) 303-1905.
Check out their menus at: aromisd.com.
