Taormina, nestled in the picturesque town of Peekskill, New York, is an Italian restaurant that truly stands out. Located in a classic, historic building by the harbor of the Hudson River, this restaurant offers not just a meal but a memorable dining experience.
The ambiance at Taormina is warm and welcoming, with a touch of old-world elegance that transports you straight to Italy. The view of the Hudson River adds a serene and scenic backdrop to the delightful dining experience.
Now, let's talk about the food, which is nothing short of spectacular. The pasta dishes at Taormina are a revelation, with each homemade creation offering a taste of Italian craftsmanship at its finest. The flavors are balanced, the textures are divine, and the overall experience is one of pure culinary bliss.
The salmon and overall seafood deserve a special mention. Cooked to perfection, it was tender, flavorful, and simply fantastic. It's a must-try for seafood lovers and a testament to the chef's skill in handling diverse ingredients. In addition, the chicken parmesan is a standout dish that impressed me deeply. The chicken was tender and juicy, encased in a crispy, golden coating, and smothered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce topped with melted cheese. It was, in a word, delicious. I've heard the pizza is great, but I will have to try that next time.
But that's not all—the appetizers and drinks at Taormina are equally remarkable. Each appetizer is a work of art (get the rollatini, stromboli, or arancini's), beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, setting the stage for the culinary delights that follow. The drinks, expertly mixed and perfectly balanced, complement the meal and elevate the dining experience, along with a great wine list. Outstanding.
Despite any negative reviews you might come across, my experience at Taormina was exceptional from start to finish. The service was attentive, the food was outstanding, and the overall atmosphere was delightful. It's a reminder that personal experience is the true measure of a restaurant's worth.
Overall, Taormina is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Italian dining experience in Peekskill. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this restaurant promises to delight your senses with its tremendous pasta, salmon, chicken parmesan, appetizers, and drinks. Don't miss the chance to dine in this historic building by the harbor; it's an experience...
Read moreMy sister has reservations for 12 and we spent almost $500. Bus boy spilled ice water on my sister, didn't apologize. Then, didn't clean up in front of her. Another man came over, didn't introduce himself, said he didn't have the wine we had asked for (we were never given a wine list or drink/cocktail menu). Then, very condescendingly named wines--but incredibly non-specific i.e. white zinfandel. He could've just told us they don't have a list. He then blamed my brother in law for spilling the water when it was the bus boy. The wine he brought us was not white zin and was a rose that tasted like shoe polish. Waitress never came back to refill drinks--AT ALL. My sister went up to the bar to order 3 drinks and grab the menu the waitress didn't bring and was reprimanded by the man who had come to the table (again, owner? Manager? Server) told him the waitress would be over. HE brought the drinks..they were all the same! Wrong drinks. Waitress came over, made passive aggressive comment about if we need something just ask. Well, four people had asked for sodas at that point and she never came back. Forgot 2 desserts, only ordered because the kids begged. Then made us wait an extended period of time for check---my sister was soaking wet still and we had an outdoor event we were going to. We had to leave. My brother in law stayed and paid, we did not tip. They had the bus girl call and ask why. Not the manager or owner, or even waitress. The bus girl who was doing an excellent job serving a large party at a corner table. Unbelievable--the audacity. Maybe that's just how they treat out of towners? We're from Buffalo--and if that's the service you give then you don't get a tip! Probably would've spent even more money had they treated us right. Also their pork is DRY and their pasta was...
Read moreWent there tonight (12/14/16) and had their $21.95 special. Plus and extra order of mozzarella sticks.
Let's start with the sticks, for $7.95 there were 8 or 9 on the plate and the cheese was still hot and melty. Most places give you 6 and the cheese is either cooled off or melted out so it's just a hollow stick. Also got the stromboli as part of the special, it was delicious and the sauce for dipping was outstanding.
The bread was fabulous, hot and fresh, though I wasn't thrilled with olive oil they had for dipping.
Then came the salad which was simple mixed greens, but very good, followed by the entrée. I had their Chicken Martini. The lemon sauce was so good, very tangy, I loved it and would go back for that alone.
For dessert I got the cheesecake and a cup of coffee. The cheesecake had clearly been in the fridge for a while and was a little dried out. My mother who with me had the cannoli which she was raving about how fresh it tasted.
The staff was very friendly but seemed to be constantly running around which resulted in some service issues. My mother had asked 3 times for some parmesan cheese for her eggplant rollatini and it was finally brought as she was eating her last bite. We also had to ask twice for more bread.
It's possible it was just one of those nights and since this was my first time I won't hold it against them too harshly. But it is why I gave 4 stars instead of 5.
I would definitely recommend as the food was wonderful and you get good portions...
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