egant fine dining
Over the past 20 years, Giorgio Meriggi, the owner of Stresa, has created an iconic presence on the north shore of long island. Stresa epitomizes the type of fine dining that was once prevalent in New York City in the 60s and 70s. Meriggi a veteran of Le Cirque, and Quo Vadis , had years of experience in the finest dining venues of Italy, France, Switzerland and Belgium. Today, Stresa continues to offer beautifully prepared italian food, a well trained staff , and a sublimely tranquil and sophisticated ambiance. Combining local ingredients in recipes from the north and south of italy along with unique flavor combinations, is all part of Giorgio's culinary genius. For our dinner, Giorgio personally chose an assortment of pasta, vegetables, seafood, and meat. Our meal began a plate of fried zucchini which was then followed with a two special appetizers: Prosciutto delicately layered over seasonally ripe figs which combined the delightful saltiness of the Prosciutto with the sweetness of fresh figs. This was followed with a light pasta dish of thin spaghetti with chanterelle mushrooms in a clear gravy. Stresa's salads are incomparable and we were then served caesar salad with just the right amount of parmesan, anchovies, and and egg. Our appetizers were accompanied by a sweet and soothing Pinot Grigio. Our entrees began with a special plate of Soft Shell crabs in a lemon butter sauce, and veal scallopine with fresh artichokes and wild mushrooms. Small brocolli spears were served as our vegetable. Each dish was beautifully presented on fine decorative china plates with distinctive glasses,goblets and silverware. Throughout our meal, our wait staff continuously refilled our drinks and brought baskets of fresh rolls and butter. Stresa is noted for their fabulous dessert trays, and tonight was no different, as our waiter brought over a plate filled with slices of italian cheese cake, apple cake, and a rich chocolate cake along with a large mound of freshly made whipped cream in the center of the dish. To finish our meal we had an iced capuccino, and tea along with vanilla biscotti. Giorgio spent time with us at the end of the meal, reminiscing about the golden era of fine dining in the 60's and 70's and some of the celebrated personalities who dined at Stresa. After 2-1/2 hours, we left feeling totally satisfied and knowing that we had eaten in one of the finest restaurants on Long Island. Kudos to Giorgio and has amazing staff. He is truly a magnificent host, and a true gentlemen who makes his "guests" culinary wishes come true....
Stresa 1524 Northern Boulevard Manhasset, N.Y. 11030 516-3656956