Emilio Ristorante — Restaurant in Town/Village of Harrison

This last Saturday night we gave Emilio Ristorante a try. It was our first and definitely out last time visiting. The outside, as well as the inside is beautiful and had that old world Italian flair without being too cliche. Also, there is ample parking which, in Harrison, is important. Regarding the wait staff and the owner, they are on point. Wait staff is attentive and personable and makes you feel at ease. They are also knowledgeable, particularly Marco, who was our waiter. The owner is a lovely person checking in frequently to assure that things were going well. Unfortunately, the food, what there is of it, is not the best. In this rising economy, going out to eat can be a luxury for some and the food should meet the standards. Two people in our party ordered one of the appetizer specials which was fried zucchini flowers. These should have been a delicate appetizer, but were heavy and laden with oil. Only two flowers were given and then two medallions of zucchini. Heavy, heavy, heavy! The ravioli stuffed with butternut squash was over spiced and heavy going down. Another person ordered fruta de mera, a seafood medley containing about 2 shrimp, a tiny piece of monk fish, and about 4 tiny clams. Honestly, enough to feed a toddler. We treated ourselves to dessert as some were still hungry. It was decided that we would try these tiny puff donuts filled with vanilla cream and topped with vanilla ice cream. Big mistake! Heavy one again with no light or airiness that usually exhibits a good zeppole. I'm sorry and it pains me to say this as everyone was so nice but save your money for another...

I have dined here occasionally over the past decade and have never been disappointed. My most recent experience was with a friend of mine who is a "regular." The staff was incredibly attentive, both to my friend and his wife and to me and my wife.

The couple of times I have come without the benefit of my friend staff was equally attentive and friendly.

The owner is a presence in the dining room, visiting tables and providing additional information. In addition, our waiter had been working there well over 25 years! The longevity of staff is a testament to the way tis establishment is run.

We sampled a variety of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Everything was delightful. Happy to recommend, and we look forward to visiting again...

Six of us tried Emilio’s for the first time last night. We had an amazing time. The waiters were charismatic and quick. The atmosphere was welcoming and the food was excellent I would describe it as clean Italian-Italian. Not American-Italian.

We had the angel hair lobster pasta which was the special, along with the braised short rib pasta which is on the regular menu. Enjoyed a classic halibut and chicken dish for dinner.

We also enjoyed the broken off Parmesan with bread meats and bufala mozzarella to start.

We will definitely be back and adding Emilio’s Ristorante to our regular rotation of local spots. A great family spot run by...