Pasta Fresca & Piadina — Restaurant in Stonington

I only get grinders from Pasta Fresca, so my review is exclusive to that aspect of this business.

When people who aren't from the east coast ask me for lunch recommendations, I describe Pasta Fresca as the quintessential New England grinder. For locals, I refer to it as the best grinder in the area amongst some stiff competition.

A large Italian combo is enough for the hungriest of adults - it's seriously stuffed and worth the price. My strategy for eating all of it is "now and later" and I usually end up eating the second half by the end of the day. Not sure who makes the bread but the grinder rolls are amongst the best. All meats I've tried are top notch, notably the roast beef which most places really cut corners on. Lettuce has the perfect moisture content and black pepper which is a small detail you can't miss. Specials sell out for good reason and it's worth planning to participate ahead of time, the chicken cutlet is impressive.

Another thing worth mentioning is how efficient the phone and ticket system works - placing an order is expedited in comparison to most restaurants and my 20+ sandwiches and counting have always come exact as I ordered, fresh, with generous portions and consistency second to no other sandwich maker I've ever patronized.

Did I mention Pasta Fresca has the best grinders in the area? I basically mean Pasta Fresca has the best...

Edit: Ok, long overdue update!! Several years back this shop was sold to a new owner. She is amazing. she took a little hole the wall and enlarged it quite a bit. The staff are very friendly and a blast to deal with. Such a nice difference with a new owner. The food is wonderful with large portions and made to order. I feel her Sausage Grinder special is untouchable. I go there several time a week now for lunch. Pasta Fresca & Padina truly is a Gem of Mystic.

First off the Grinders are the BEST around. BUT the service from the woman behind the counter (also answers the phone) is lacking any customer skills at all, it seems as if you are bothering her. I know its a very well established local grinder shop with a large local following, but it still doesn't mean you have to act like you could care less about customers! I have eaten there for over 20 years, usually at least once a week. But I assure you I'm all done. When you think you are too good to care if you loose a customer, that's when you loose your operation. Its too bad because they make the BEST grinders around without a doubt. If you don't mind being treated like your bothering the order taker than have at it , you'll...

I've raved to my family and friends about Pasta Fresca's grinders for several years. They are the best. They offer a great selection of grinders, each with fresh rolls and the perfect amount of meats and veg. Their large portion sizes wil satisfy any healthy appetite!

Today, I'd also like to praise Tia's selection of soups. I've had several flavors, their standards and chef's specials and they are all excellent. Today I tried their Shepherd's Pie soup because it really sounded interesting. It was delicious. I also love their RI clam chowder and their corn chowder.

They are very popular around lunchtime, so I recommend you order...