Stresa

The veal pizzaiola was just right.   So were the pinwheel sausage appetizer and pasta e fagioli.   My wife had the shrimp francese, also delicious.   We did not order dessert as we're "trying to be good", but I bet they're well worth the indulgence.  The entire experience we had this past Valentine's Day at Stresa Italian Restaurant in West Palm Beach was very pleasant, capped off by our waiter Vito who was abrupt in that endearing Brooklyn style.  Almost savant-like.  Strong brogue.   I mentioned that I would like a glass of Cabernet and he brought one out before I could ask for a wine list.  It was a good choice.  I think it was the Cain Cuvee? He later fist bumped me when he brought the check. 

Stresa, named after a small town in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, was originally located on Okeechobee Blvd. An institution.  They recently moved to a shopping center on Palm Beach Lakes (where the sorely missed Bangkok O Cha once was) and are celebrating their twenty-fifth year.  The menu is diverse; its offerings are influenced also by French and Swiss cuisines.   The new space is neat and cozy, with plenty of outdoor seating.  

Stresa is ideal for when you want a "nice" dining experience that feels a bit upscale but not too fancy.  The owner comes out and asks how much grated cheese you would like.  The atmosphere is comfortable and friendly.   Most importantly, the food is consistently excellent. 

Stresa Italian Restaurant

2062 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

West Palm Beach, FL  33409

(561) 615-0200

http://www.stresaitalianrestaurant.com/