Il Forno - Restaurant Review

Diana and I enjoyed another great dinner at Il Forno on South Fullerton. We were lucky to get a table as they are usually completely booked on the weekend. 

We have known Massimo, the owner along with his wife Ann Marie, since he was with Gina's Bakery.

We've always been a big fans of his bakery in Upper Montclair through its many renditions.

Il Forno has closed, the owners moved to Maine to open a restaurant there.

Some may say that Fascino, Osteria Giotto or Corso 98 is better, and I would not argue. But they are different restaurants with a different mission.

The menu at Il Forno is discreet only offering what can be prepared fresh from the market. The preparations are generally simple, very authentic and delicious.The seafood and meats are always fresh and of the very best quality. The spicing and sprinkling of herbs on each dish is just right. And of course the bread is wonderful

Every time we dine there I feel like I am back in Italy in a little trattoria in Assisi or San Gimignano. And that is why I like it so much.

In Italy the difference between a trattoria and a restaurante is that a trattoria is usually family owned and has a following of regular clients that are known well. This is certainly the feeling we get at Il Forno. We often run into friends. There is one family that we see almost every time we go.

On this night we chatted with Massimo and Ann Marie about Mexico.

We enjoyed just one wine, Alessandria L'Insieme, which is a combination of Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon and Nebbiolo. Recommended by Sharon at Amanti Vino on Church Street.

I am not a big fan of Nebbiolo or Cabernet but bought the wine because I was intrigued by the group that produces it.

L’Insieme is a charitable enterprise founded by seven of Barolo’s top young producers with the aim of restoring local architectural treasures and preserving the cultural history of the region. The Foundation also provides scholarships and support to talented young winemakers of the Langhe.

In the five years it has been going the project has already given around 400,000 euros to charitable projects, an average of 80,000 euros a year. This significant sum says much about the enormous potential of these lands.

If you enjoy Nebbiolla, the grape used to make Italy's world class Barolo wines or Cabernet then you will probably like this wine.

If you love authentic well prepared Italian food Il Forno

Comments

[Jim Teacher]

This place is outstanding. Truly the finest Italian cuisine I have had in this country, with a distinct Roman flare.

[Pam Tonucci]

We went to Il Forno last night on your recommendation, and felt as if we dined in Italy. Massimo and Anne Marie are wonderful hosts. He proudly brought out the uncooked whole stuffed branzino special (to show us how fresh is was) and filleted it after cooking. Fantastic..and so typically Italian!! Have you ever seen an American chef do that? We shared an order of porcini pappardelle to start and it was totally authentic. Gary raved about his lamb chops too. We talked at length with Massimo about shared experiences in Italy. This is a place we'll return to again and again. Thanks for the recommendation. We already are thinking about Italophile friends we want to bring there.

[Dave]

Ilforno has skipped town...not to be found..we loved their food..where did they go...what restaurant compares in the area