Little Italy — Restaurant in Town of North Elba

CASH ONLY, ATM and WiFi inside. Upon walking in on a late evening on a Monday during week one of “spring break,” I was thinking, “it’s a pizzeria.” Well, I wasn’t wrong, but there was a lot more to it. I saw a couple of booths up front, but then I was asked if I wanted to sit in the back, I agreed and was surprised to see a dining area. It was cozy but open and had tall ceilings. The air smelled fresh and they were playing rock and soft rock through their speakers, but not too loud or not at all, and it made me feel at ease.

I was expecting a pizza menu with finger food, but was pleasantly surprised at what other dishes they had on the menu. Baked pasta, pasta, salads, appetizers, subs both hot and cold, and desserts.

*This review is not based on their pizza, but instead, their delicious daily special and killer dessert.

Tonight I had the Shrimp Genovese with artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and broccoli on linguine with a basil Alfredo sauce. “Era Delizioso!” Ok let me back up, I was served up a salad as well with warm bread.

The salad was very fresh yet simple. I read a review on here that someone didn’t get enough dressing, mine came in a cup on the side (I appreciate little things like that) and it was plenty of dressing. I do wish a little more effort was put into the salad itself however. It came on plate slightly too small and the vegetables seemed to be quickly thrown on the side. I highly doubt this is a style, but who knows, I could be wrong and this is just how they do it here.

Alright, fast forwarding to dessert. ...WOW... I was extremely surprised! When I asked for a cannoli I just wanted one (because at that point I was stuffed from the Shrimp Genovese, but I can always make room for dessert) and I was expecting a bland Ricotta filled cannoli, because VERY few places get it right. Well, I’m proud to tell you, that I’ve found a restaurant that has a perfect Cannoli. They said they don’t make the shells themselves, but they do make the cream/Ricotta mixture. It was topped with chocolate syrup which my waitress agreed that that’s what makes all the difference.

My waitress, Debbie, was attentive, kind, and well informed. She asked me how my food was periodically, but not overly so. The service was quick for a Monday night.

It just goes to show once again, Saranac Lake is filled with hidden gems like this one. I’ll be back...

I give this pizza spot ONE STAR. Mainly due to the price. It was $32 and some change, just for me. One 14” pizza and one 16oz Pepsi soda. It was $25 for the 14” pizza. Buffalo Chicken. (Specialty pizza) which had 3 bites of half inch chicken cubes per slice. Some had 2, some had 5 or 6, literally half inch cubes of chicken breast. I would honestly say, the pizza was average. Not bad, but definitely not worth $25, and another $3.50 for a 16oz soda bottle. Plus 18% courtesy. (I think courtesy is the tip?) so I didn’t leave anything for the waitress. Why are they telling me how much to give for a tip? $32. One person. A 14” average chicken pizza, nothing special. And $3.50 for a 16oz bottle of Pepsi??? I’m sorry but I won’t be returning here I could go to Downhill Grill and get a “build your own burger” with chips and a basket of French fries, with an onion soup, and refillable soda for less than $32. Note: I will say this, the staff was friendly, and they let me use their restroom. And the pizza was quick, within 10 minutes of ordering. Also, picture is of the left over slice from a few hours after. No exaggeration. That’s the average slice, only 3 small bites of chicken. And they ask $25 for this. Cost me $32...

On July 13, 2021, we had dinner at Little Italy about 6pm, they were jam packed! Only one server on duty, she worked her tail off, no bus person or hostess just her and the kitchen staff. She did welcome us and explained she was working alone. Her name is Debbie and she was wonderful! Our food was yummy and was served hot and fresh, we could hear the kitchen ringing the bell for her to pick up the food, but she was busy taking care of business her customers seemed to be large parties of families with youngsters and everyone seemed happy and well behaved we were in the back dining room and the front was packed as well plus take out orders I'm sure. We are all aware that many people are enjoying not working and getting paid to do so, I have to commend those that have the work ethic and integrity to carry on , and do it with pride and professionalism. I jokingly asked her if she was ready to retire and she said with determination " no I'm going to do this!" And she did! all without a mishap and was friendly and couteous throughout, she never missed a beat, so kudos to you Debbie, and we thank the kitchen also, our food was great and served promptly as possible . Thankyou all for a wonderful meal ! You all...