PASTA FRESCA: NEW LOOK; NEW MENU; SAME EXCITING, CREATIVE MENU Lynn Azzolina,The Courier, September 18 Posted:09/18/08
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SHREWSBURY – You may think of Pasta Fresca as only a marketplace, but it is much, much more, an upscale, homestyle restaurant as well. Pasta Fresco is located in the Grove Shopping Center, therefore it is also very convenient for shoppers as well as for diners who know and love good, creative food.
New upscale changes have been made such as a recent renovation and a new, innovative, appealing menu. Proprietor Peter O’Connell, a native of Red Bank, takes charge of the kitchen and is known for his culinary expertise. True to the name, they make all of their own pastas which I have been sampling since its inception.
The creative pastas taste just like an Italian grandmother would make offering many different selections. They have a section where you can dine in, or weather permitting, dine al fresco on their sidewalk café.
The Tuscan inspired cuisine features seafood, pastas and a variety of chicken, steaks and, last but not least, their popular, creative pizzas. No one can say that there isn’t something on the menu for their individual preference. There’s something for everyone!
O’Connell’s experience in the culinary field began with his employment at the now defunct Pear Tree in Rumson, followed by his graduation – with honors – at the Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park.
Following the footsteps of his parents who loved to cook, O’Connell’s culinary artistry is seen in his homemade pastas, sauces, soups and stocks (many taking two days). He makes everything from scratch, extracting flavors from natural ingredients, bringing them back to their prime. The proof is in the pudding which you will discover when sampling his creations.
The Soho-inspired ambiance is pleasant and casual with large picture windows, high ceilings featuring spot lights and geometric designs; clothed tables; several romantic areas; orientated for family dining; separate take-out section. The open kitchen will further entice your appetite as the aroma of pizza and other delicacies will stimulate your digestive juices.
Although they are basically known for their pastas, they offer many other appetizing selections, many available in the take-out section. We loved two of their evening specials, Roasted Vegetable and Goat Cheese Terrine and Spicy Grilled Shrimp with ruby red grapefruit, red onion and baby arugula. What a treat.
We also loved the Baby Spinach Salad (enhanced with toasted pecans, apples, crumbled Maytag blue cheese tossed in a raspberry vinaigrette) as well as the Fennel and Baby Arugula Salad, both a vivacious toss of quality ingredients.
Almost everyone loves pizza and here at Pasta Fresco they really know how to make a thin-crusted crisp pizza in their wood-burning oven, offering six enticing selections. The Lasagna Special was delicious beyond words, melt in your mouth noodles highlighted with jumbo lump crab, shittake mushrooms, mascarpone, and a creative creamy lobster and chive sauce. A must try!
I was told that their Scallops are “fresh off the boat” so I just had to try Day Boat Scallops, enhanced with leeks, wild mushrooms, and sweet corn in a mouthwatering, perfectly made cream sauce – one of the best that I have ever tasted.
A favorite of mine as well as a must-try is Pan-Seared Swordfish, enhanced with tomato, olives, capers and basil with Basmati rice and sautéed spinach. The fresh and mild tasting swordfish almost melted in my mouth and it was filled with an abundance of flavor. A sure bet!
Whatever your choice I am sure that you will be completely satisfied, and want to come back and sample some more of their delicacies. Enjoy!
ADDRESS: 673 Route 35, Shrewsbury at The Grove TEL. 732-747-5616 OPEN: Lunch: Mon. thru Sun; Dinner: Mon. thru Sat. CHILDREN’S MENU DINNER ENTREES from $19 for Rigatoni w/ Eggplant to $30 for Peppercorn Encrusted Strip PIZZAS, SALADS & SANDWICHES ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS BYOB
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