🍝 Halifax’s Italian Hidden Gem – Ristorante a Mano Review!

📍 Ristorante a Mano 1477 Lower Water St, Halifax This cozy trattoria (literally across from my apartment!) serves crispy baby squid, tomato-kissed pasta, and crème brûlée so good it’ll make you forget The Bicycle Thief. 🏆 Why It’s a Local Favorite ✔ Squid supremacy: Tender rings, feather-light batter, zesty dip = must-order ✔ Sauce mastery: Marinara balanced (not too acidic), alfredo rich (but pace yourself) ✔ Price charm: 24 seafood pasta > downtown’s 35 versions 🥂 What We Ordered 🦑 Calamari Fritti ($12) ★★★★★ Baby squid, lemon aioli, perfect crunch – Halifax’s best. 🍝 Spaghetti allo Scoglio ($24) ★★★★★ Plump scallops, sweet tomato sauce, al dente noodles – swoon-worthy. 🍮 Crème Brûlée ($10) ★★★★★ Glass-like caramel, vanilla bean custard – worth the sugar rush. 🥖 Bruschetta Trio ($14) ★★★★☆ Prosciutto + pear + tomato, grilled ciabatta – solid starter. 🍤 Pasta Alfredo ($22) ★★★☆☆ Jumbo shrimp, parmesan cream – needed chili flakes. 🥩 Beef Tenderloin ($32) ★★☆☆☆ Good meat, boring seasoning – skip for squid. 🍫 Chocolate Cake ($10) ★☆☆☆☆ Brick-like, sugar overload – emergency espresso needed. 💡 Pro Tips ✔ Best for: Date nights, squid cravings, budget Italian ✔ Order hack: Squid + seafood pasta + crème brûlée = perfect trio ✔ Skip if: You want modern décor (it’s old-school cozy) 💰 Damage: ~$50-70 per person #HalifaxEats #ItalianFood #WaterfrontDining