Reviews of Dante
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Rock on Dante Bocuzzi
Being a chef, though by no means an infamous one, I normally don't get too excited about any restaurant. There are not enough great words to describe our late lunch New Year's Eve day at Dante. I live for indulging in foie gras, and couldn't imagine life without it. Boy was I in for the treat of my life! I ordered the foie gras and was very pleased with a lovely slab that was delicately pan seared to perfection served on top a plump bed of the most tender French toast stuffed with a vanilla pear compote and puree with a few caramelized onion bits to cut the sweetness. While I was savoring every morsel, we soon realized that I was nearly re-enacting a scene from "When Harry Met Sally" which of course, only thrilled my fiance. I finally composed myself so that we could move onto our entree courses which were nothing short of fabulous. He had the had the beef tenderloin sitting on top of a shallot potato pancake with tempura fried shitake mushrooms and a ginger carrot puree, which stating it was very good, does not give it enough justice. I had chosen the 3 course lunch with wine pairings. Starting with an amuse bouche of a shelled tempura fried crab claw that set the tone just right. Followed with 4 truffled potato ravioli with butter poached shrimp with a butternut squash sauce, that had me just about full. But wait, I still had 4 preparations of veal to go: mustard confit breast, cheeks, tenderloin, and sweetbreads with potato puree and mustard greens. It was nice not to be even the slightest bit rushed through our incredible dining experience, as it really allowed time to dine slowly, savoring every bite, while being able to finish each dish comfortably. Now for my last course, which of course was dessert. I received another amuse bouche...a few pomegrantes on top of a raspberry sorbet sitting on 3 thinly sliced candied kumquats, cleansing my palate so I could really enjoy the chocolate trio. Tiny bites of chocolate macaroons, the chocolate port ice cream, and the best mini chocolate souffle I've had in a very long time.
The restaurant's décor is very nice, giving such a comfortable “old money” type but certainly not a staunchy feel. Got to also notice the whimsical view of Chef Boccuzzi’s 2 loves…music and food, right down to the bread "basket" and guitar pick that came with the check. Check out the photo of him in their lobby. Standing at the grill, with his back facing the camera with a guitar hanging with the face of it toward the camera. At anytime, you’d expect him to whirl around and play you a great tune.
Our waiter and every staff member was terrific. From the hostess taking our coats, and showing us to our table, to the bus staff, servers, and bartenders, they were all making sure our dining experience was a fantastic one. Oh yeah...price? It was very reasonable....in fact, it shocked me that we paid so little. They also have complimentary valet parking!
We have raved to everyone we know, and then some, that to truly have a great dining experience, they must try Dante. We have been dining there frequently since & we never leave disappointed, only awed with impeccable service & awesome food.. It truly is one of Cleveland's best, and no true foodie, chef, nor critic would even think about giving Dante a bad review. I just can’t see it ever happening.
Review by chef ojelaj from Cleveland posted November 12, 2008
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Sushi Blues is red hot!
Had a wonderful evening of sushi and blues music at Dantes last Thursday evening. Even if you don't like fish, you'll love the sushi and Dante's masterful hand at making it right in front of you at the bar. Service was fast, efficient and friendly. Dante's serves up the best on Thursdays and you really need to try it to see what I'm talking about. Try the crispy tuna with a glass of dry white wine...Wow!
Review by Jerry from Broadview Heights posted June 27, 2008
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1'st an Iron Chef now DANTE!
I was a fan of Lockkeepers and was concerned when I heard the news about the ownership change. Although pricey for Cleveland, it was a true oasis of fine dining in Cleveland.
Much to my surprise, Dante is better! I've been there at least a dozen times over the past 4 months and couldn't be happier. Everything (and I mean everything) is better. The décor is tasteful and blends the right amount of intimacy and ambiance. The food is quite special and rarely found outside of New York or the West Coast. Prices are higher that your average chain, but you would expect that from a world class chef. Candidly, I am impressed! Cleveland has a real jewel.
Review by P from Downtown Cleveland posted May 09, 2008
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