Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Pick of the Week 4-29-09:

Classic Macaroni & Gravy for the Italian in Everyone
Leo’s Grandevous, Hoboken Nj


If you are looking for a place to find a traditional Italian meal, you know the one that your grandmothers use to serve up? Look no further. Leo’s Grandevous is just the place. Opening its doors in 1939, Leo and Tessie DiTerlizzi have served generations of Hoboken families, not to mention the greats, like Hoboken’s own Frank Sinatra… need I say anymore? Most that are familiar with Leo’s, or are from the area, come more than once a week, as a matter of fact most in Leo’s are known by name. The extended family atmosphere is a great complement to their Italian cuisine.
To start, the warm Prosciutto & Mozz Insalate is melt in your mouth delicious, and for only $9, it is well worth every bite. The combination of warm cured prosciutto with a mild mozzarella is one for the books. Followed by traditional appetizers like clams on a half shell, warm antipasti, and mussels, you are just warming up your taste buds for the main course. I had the lasagna, which was one of the specials that evening, and I understand why. One word Phenomenal! I chose to accompany it with a side of meatballs/ sausage, and Brocoli-rabe I couldn’t decide between them. Overwhelmed by the portion size, I dug in. It had layers of aldente noodles, classic gravy (red sauce), loads of luscious cheese, and crusty bread. The sides were everything you would expect from a place run by a first generation Italian couple. If you still have room, they do have a variety of desserts, I will be back to try them.
The ambiance and the reputation of this classic establishment can overwhelm the size of it. We were very close to our neighboring table, and actually struck up a conversation. They no longer lived in Hoboken, but when they come into the area, Leo’s is where they eat. There are no reservations and there is rarely an empty seat in the house. The wait is not bad, you can sit at the bar for drinks and listen to the sounds of the past, Sinatra and the boys are always playing. I would suggest getting there for an earlier dinner, before 7, or get there right around 7-7:30 so the wait is not too long. I will say it is defiantly worth it, and I will be waiting often for another taste of Leo’s Grandevous!
As Always, Enjoy ~ K

Price: Affordable ( $50- $75 for a couple includes Alcohol)
Leo’s Grandevous (Leo’s)
No Reservations/ Cash only

Visit: www.leosgrandevous.com
Phone: 201-659-9467
Address: 200 Grand Street Hoboken, NJ 07030

Mon-Fri: 11:30am-2:00pm and 5:00pm-10:00pm.
Sat: 5:00pm-11:00pm & Sun: 4:00pm-10:00pm

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