Taste

DRINK / CHEERS / CUISINE / FOOD FILES / DINING GUIDE

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ /

Known for its handcrafted approach to modern Italian dining, North Italia – a beloved Kierland Commons staple since 2002 – continues to make mouths water by innovating new dishes each season. Among its most popular winter menu offerings is the Crispy Eggplant Parmesan ($15). To make, whole eggplant is peeled and sliced to into disks before being salted and set aside to marinate. The disks are then coated with flour and egg washed before being covered with panko, Grana Padano cheese and Italian herbs. After a quick fry, the disks are placed into an iron skillet and topped with creamy Calabrian chili-infused vodka sauce, provolone and mozzarella. The skillet is baked until the cheese is melted, then it’s garnished with oil, additional Grana Padano, and torn basil. The result: A hearty, warming dish with a hint of spice and ample gooey cheese. North Italia, 15024 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.948.2055; www.northitalia.com.