In a world where many Italian restaurants have adopted the whole “huge portions are better than quality food” philosophy, there are a few exceptions. For the past 23 years, Paola’s has been one of those great Upper East Side institutions that is a little hidden, a little mysterious and definitely the type of place that makes you feel like you are in an “old school,” romantic Italian joint.
At the end of February, Paola’s will find a new home at Hotel Wales. I had the opportunity to eat at Paola’s current location (at 245 E. 84th St.) a few weeks ago and it was phenomenal. I am a huge foodie, so you can trust that I know good food when I taste it. My favorite dishes included an amazing seared duck breast with an apricot mustard sauce and a homemade mushroom ravioli. (Literally, I could go on all day about the housemade pastas.) I also loved the polenta – velvety, flavorful and delicious. My dinner companions most enjoyed the beef short rib that was so tender that it fell apart.
If you have been to Italy, you might notice that people really enjoy their meals and aren’t in a hurry. This isn’t a rushed environment where you will feel pressured to leave. While I was at Paola’s, I actually met Paola herself. Originally from Rome, Paola incorporates her old family recipes into her current culinary style. She is warm, friendly and walks around the restaurant to greet all her tables and talk about that night’s menu. Although the restaurant has expanded over the years, the food is still executed under her watchful eye.
Hotel Wales is thrilled to welcome Paola’s to their Madison Avenue location. If you are a fan of the restaurant, please come visit her new haunts this Spring. If you have never eaten a meal with Paola…let’s just say you are missing out. In a city that prides itself on great Italian food, Paola’s is a force to be reckoned with.
