Trattoria Neo combines customary Italian dishes with a pleasant, aesthetic atmosphere making for an enjoyable, innovative dining experience. The venue is charming, to say the least, and provides a full bar and a cozy dining room lined in antique Italian pottery, finished with exquisite walls and ceiling.
Open for over two years, Trattoria Neo has redesigned its menu and incorporated music-inspired evenings and wine specials.
Greeted by the host on our arrival, we were seated in the intimate dining area, and immediately ordered from the extensive wine menu. The establishment offers a surplus of renowned wines including a delightful Sauvignon Blanc and the acclaimed “Blood of Jupiter,” a distinctive, strong-bodied Cabernet. The dinner menu is organized into various categories including salads, antipasti, first-course selections, second-course selections and a traditional dessert menu. This establishment has elevated itself over many Italian eateries through its ability to harness traditional cuisine while incorporating a modern atmosphere and innovative menu.
Antipasti include classic selections such as an Italian cold cut platter and fried calamari, as well as chef-inspired specials such as an imported buffalo mozzarella and a shaved artichoke dish served with granulated pistachios, mache and shaved Parmigiano. I tried the artichoke dish and was overwhelmed by the combination of the textured artichoke and nutty accents from the pistachio. Served over a bed of arugula, this dish is a must-try. My guest and I sampled the veal and beef meatballs — flavorful, moist and just the right amount of sauce topped with basil leaves. Finally, we had a fried rice ball – a savory assortment of flavors capped off with a saffron sauce — delicious!
Dinner platters range from homemade pastas served with classic Italian sauces, to creative dishes such as the spinach gnocchi in a creamy Gorgonzola sauce, or the ravioli stuffed with spinach and ricotta in a light, creamy black truffle sauce.
Trattoria Neo has a sincere passion for food, and an innovative outlook on reconstructing Italian classics into modern-day customer favorites. And with a genuine concern for customers’ gastronomy, they also offer gluten-free pasta.
For my main course, I sampled a filet of sole with lemon sauce. The fish was cooked perfectly, served on a bed of sautéed spinach and garlic mashed potatoes. The presentation was nothing less than impeccable. The chef completed the platter with shaved lemon rind and cherry tomatoes lining the plate — beautiful!
There are many selections for customers who don’t prefer fish, such as the Parmesan encrusted chicken served with a martini lemon sauce and the grilled 14oz Brandt sirloin steak surrounded with steak fries.
This restaurant embraces its Italian heritage while incorporating various aspects of American, French and Southwestern cuisines. Before leaving this charming Trattoria, try the homemade tiramisu or Nutella Pizza complete with an espresso.
Trattoria Neo of Whitestone provides a contemporary, yet classically-influenced menu complete with a warm, cozy dining area and full-length, beautifully-placed bar. Make sure to visit the web site for weekly specials including DJ nights, wine/price fixed dinners and pasta nights.
Trattoria Neo
15-01 149th Street
Whitestone, NY 11357
718-767-1110
www.trattoria-neo.com
Open daily for lunch and dinner
Sunday Brunch Buffet 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Wednesday is “Pasta Day”
Dine in, take out
