Rea's Italian Cucina — Restaurant in Calgary

I really wanted to give this place a great review and a higher review. I've heard of some great things about this place as being a rustic Italian hidden gem that I had taken my wife here for her birthday, and brought my aunt along as well. But so far as I can tell, I was the only one who actually enjoyed my meal, First off, we had ordered the Salsiccia Della Casa (Spicy homemade sausage) and it admittedly looked great.... right until we bit into the food. I think it was accidentally double salted when cooked as it was so incredibly salty that it was inedible. I had to polish off an Orangina and a glass of water to get that salt taste out. The sausage itself, from what we could discern, was actually good, but the massive overseasoning unfortunately set a poor tone to the start of the meal. Next up was the mains. My wife's Filetto Basa Pescatore (basa with prawns and scallops) was ok, but nothing terribly special. There was no herbs or seasoning in the tomato sauce, or even garlic that we could tell. It was essentially crushed tomatoes. My aunt's Linguine Tutto Mare seemed to be ok, right until she started biting into raw uncooked shrimp. She put it aside and showed it to the server. It put her off completely from the rest of the meal and she wouldn't even consider a dessert or another try at the dish. My own dish, which I can't find the name for, was a Fusilli dish that seemed to have been made with anchovies, and was recommended to me by Mikaela, the server. It was an excellent choice as I thoroughly enjoyed it, and it's honestly one that I would gladly order again. The anchovy taste was subtle, but discernable. and gave the sauce a wonderful boost. So, that was the meal, a bit of a bust unfortunately, though I would still gladly order my dish again. The restaurant did offer to make amends a few times by offering to remake the dishes, but my aunt and wife were really turned off by the super salted sausage and the raw shrimp that they refused to have it again. The server also offered dessert, but considering the circumstances, that was refused as well (well, considering a perfect 2 out of 2 failed dishes for my aunt...). So those items were left off the bill, but I just noticed that it wasn't my aunt's dish (at $29 with the raw shrimp) that was left off the bill, but it was my cheaper anchovy fusilli dish (I think it was $22) instead that was left off the bill. As such, I'm also left with a poor feeling about this as this feels slightly disingenuous as I didn't have any issues with my meal. As such, I'm giving about as high as star rating as I can honestly give. I have been looking for a good rustic Italian place for awhile to be my regular go to place. Unfortunately, all of these events and then topped off with the bill part just leaves me with a bad overall taste. As Calgary is going back into COVID-19 lockdown, the restaurant was quite busy this night. As the restaurant, and others having to shut down their dining rooms, will now have to manage to survive with take out and delivery now, I wish them luck. It's not going to be easy. But it's better to note what happened tonight in the hope that all similar mistakes be avoided so that others will enjoy their meals in the rough times to come. As is, sadly, my aunt stated openly to the server that she won't ever be going back there. And as for my wife and myself, neither...

One occasionally stumbles upon a dining experience that stirs the senses with quiet sophistication rather than ostentatious flair. Such was the case at Rea’s Italian Restaurant, a modest yet confident establishment where the essence of multi- generation family Italian gastronomy is executed with genuine respect for tradition. This eatery was mentioned to me by locals I met during my time visiting Calgary Stampede, who spoke highly of this being one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in the city.

Upon entering, one is met not with theatrical bravado, but with an understated charm. The interiors lean pictured with family photos of past generations: a mural of the family at the entrance, and colors that were similar to the Spanish red’s I have seen during my European travels. There is an intimacy to the space, with many folks walking through the door, greeted by name and smile from the staff.

To the food, then. Over the course of the three visits, I fancied a variety of dishes. The homemade Rea’s meatballs arrived with a studied elegance: fresh parmesan and herbs, and arrived with a visible draft of steam. The Sandro Special pizza, slivers of prosciutto that melted on the tongue, paired with olives, green peppers and a capocollo of commendable bite. The pasta—Fusilli Ferraro, a family signature dish was a triumph of restraint.

The main course, a braised veal shank with pasta, was unctuous and unhurried, falling from the bone with an ease that only comes from proper, patient cookery. It was rustic with flavor and herbs—a balance many aim for, few achieve.

Now, a word on the wine. I inquired with my server Dante, of looking for something from a smaller Italian vineyard in Italy. The list, while not encyclopaedic, is curated with care. There is a pleasing balance of old-world depth and regional specificity. I took my server's recommendation, a 2021 Brancaia Tre. A blend of grape varieties from the Tuscan vineyards of Maremma, Castellina, & Radda. This well structured, medium-bodied wine played beautifully across the meal. One suspects the sommelier (Dante), should one be brave enough to call upon him, has a few rare bottles tucked away for those who speak the right language.

Service, I might add, was deft and warm. No overbearing interruptions, no robotic recitations—just timely, knowledgeable attention delivered with that rare blend of family hospitality and pride. A word on the location, just perfectly north of downtown, with the ability to get a last minute bar seat. However, a reservation would be necessary if I returned with my mates.

In sum, Rea’s Italian Restaurant is not the place for spectacle or reinvention. It is a place where the family traditions are revered, where ingredients and multi-generational family recipe’s are honoured, and where the wine is never an afterthought. A quiet triumph, and one to which I shall most certainly return next year when visiting Calgary...

Rea's Italian Cucina is an exceptional Italian restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. From the moment you step inside, you'll be greeted with a warm and inviting ambiance that sets the stage for a memorable meal. The restaurant's attention to detail and commitment to authentic Italian cuisine are evident in every aspect.

One of the highlights of Rea's Italian Cucina is its extensive menu, which features a wide variety of traditional Italian dishes prepared with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for classic pasta dishes like lasagna or spaghetti carbonara, or if you prefer seafood or meat entrees, Rea's Italian Cucina has something to satisfy every palate.

The restaurant's skilled chefs demonstrate a mastery of flavors, creating dishes that are rich, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The pasta is cooked to perfection, the sauces are robust and well-balanced, and the desserts are simply divine. Each dish is a true testament to the culinary expertise of the kitchen staff. Personally, I got the lasagna which were to die for.

Furthermore, the service at Rea's Italian Cucina is impeccable. The attentive and knowledgeable staff members go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. They are always ready to provide recommendations, answer questions, and accommodate special dietary needs or preferences.

The atmosphere of Rea's Italian Cucina is both elegant and comfortable, making it suitable for a romantic dinner, a family celebration, or a gathering with friends. The restaurant's cozy seating arrangements and tasteful decor contribute to a pleasant dining environment.

Overall, Rea's Italian Cucina is a gem among Italian restaurants. With its exceptional cuisine, outstanding service, and inviting atmosphere, it is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking an authentic Italian dining experience.

P.S. Kyle is an amazing host with pristine...