A Birthday Dinner Full of Memories, Flavor, and Garlic Knots
Two Guys from Italy - 405 N Verdugo Rd, Glendale, CA
Yesterday was my birthday, and like any proper foodie (and chef), I had strong opinions about where we should celebrate. My friends--God love them--know how picky I am when it comes to restaurants, so it's usually a bit of an ordeal deciding where to go. Luckily, they love me enough to put up with it!
Originally, we planned to try a new French spot in Sierra Madre, but when my friend called to make a reservation, we found out they're closed on Tuesday nights. With plans quickly changing, I finally admitted something I'd been holding back: I'd been dying to return to Two Guys from Italy--an Italian restaurant that used to be my favorite place to go with my ex. That emotional tie is probably why it took me so long to go back.
When we pulled up, my friend commented that it didn't look like much from the outside. But once we were seated inside, they understood the charm--warm Italian music, cozy atmosphere, and that familiar, comforting feeling you only get at a place that is authentically Italian.
We started with water and a basket of garlic knots ($3.99). They typically come with a side of marinara, but I remembered they also serve them with an a la checca sauce ($3.25)--a mixture of fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and Parmesan. I broke open a knot, spooned the mixture on top, and voilà--bruschetta knots! (Is that a thing? It should be.)
I brought my own bottle of Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay--because like food, I'm picky about my wine, and happily paid the corkage fee. My friend Chris ordered a glass of the house Cabernet, which she found impressively smooth and not overly acidic, as house wines can sometimes be.
As for dinner, I didn't need to look at the menu--I was there for my favorite: Frutti di Mare ($24.99). It's loaded with fresh seafood--clams, mussels, scallops, shrimp, and calamari in a creamy tomato sauce over pasta. Every bite was as heavenly as I remembered.
Susy ordered the Carrot Soup, a velvety purée of carrots, potatoes, and onions, followed by the Veal Marsala served with spaghetti in red sauce and a side of steamed broccoli, carrots, and zucchini. Jerry, the owner, mentioned that due to recent laws, he now has to travel over an hour just to source veal, so if you're craving veal, this is the place to get it.
Chris had the Ravioli al Pomodoro ($16.99), choosing the cheese-filled ravioli in a pink sauce. From the first bite, she was raving.
The portions? Generous. We all had enough to take home. But we all wanted to be sure we left room for dessert.
* Lemon Mascarpone Cake ($6.99) - Light, citrusy, and refreshing
* Cannoli ($6.99) - Classic, crisp shell and creamy filling
* Chocolate Mousse Cake ($6.99) - Rich, smooth, decadent (my favorite of the three)
Susy also ordered a cappuccino to go with her Lemon Mascarpone Cake.
Honestly, I wish I had another slice of that chocolate mousse cake right now to go with my leftovers that I couldn't stop thinking about all day.
We couldn't have all been happier about our meals, and I can't believe it took me so long to share this restaurant with my best friends. There were so many other dishes we wanted to try, including the pizza, but we'll save those for next time. And trust me, there will be a next time.
If you're looking for authentic Italian cuisine, an extensive menu, warm hospitality, and extremely reasonable prices, you have to check out this hidden gem in East Glendale.
They also offer:
* Free delivery in Glendale
* A private room for events
* Catering services
Call ahead or just show up--but make sure you bring your appetite. We're already planning our return. read more