Faro Italian Grille
Find authentic dishes at Faro Italian Grille
Faro Italian Grille, metamorphosed from the iconic Lobster Pound on Rte. 3 in the Weirs, is a welcome addition to the Lakes Region dining scene.
Totally renovated, there is a main dining room, a smaller dining area in the rear decorated with artwork by Peter Max, as well as seating in the bar and high tables. Additional seating is available on two outdoor decks. The ambience is minimalist, warm gray walls throughout; attractive, sophisticated atmosphere, but acoustics need to be improved.
The breadbasket included three different breads, with olive oil and vinegar for dipping — on an Italian table, butter is not served with bread.
The menu is authentic Italian, featuring the progression of a true Italian dinner, commencing with a choice of antipasti. Notable are the calamari fritti ($13), crisp and crunchy, with red bell peppers, generous enough for two. The crostini e gamberi ($17) is another winner; pan-seared shrimp with leeks, prosciutto, mushrooms in Marsala wine sauce with crostini to soak up the delicious sauce.
Soups and salads do not disappoint. The Caesar featured crisp Romaine and generous shavings of Parmesan cheese. The rucola con Parmigiano e pomodori (baby arugula and diced grape tomatoes, with Parmesan and a balsamic glaze) ($11) was more than enough for two.
There are more than 16 pasta choices and specials in addition; the homemade ravioli stuffed with lobster and crab, and dressed with a tomato cream sauce was excellent. You may also mix and match your choice of pasta with sauce. Much of the pasta is fatto in casa, made in-house.
The entrées included sirloin steak alla Fiorentina, a classic ($29); salmon roasted with capers, olives and lemon ($24); several poultry choices and a special osso bucco (braised veal shank, $25).
A wide selection of pizzas and calzone is also offered. The pizza is a 16-inch, hand-tossed, North End-style with a thin crust and choice of toppings ($15-19).
The wine list was adequate. Although the kitchen was somewhat slow, the service was very friendly.
