Tre Scalini
Philadelphia, PA 19147-6335
Phone: (215) 551-3870
- Price:
- $$$
- Hours:
- Tue-Sat 5pm-9:30pm, Sun 3:30pm-8pm
Editorial Review for Tre Scalini – by Lauren McCutcheon
In Short
Cedar paneling and stone overlays frame rectangular mirrors in an inconspicuous row house. Suburban foodies have discovered Tre Scalini, diluting its neighborhood feel and allowing the owners to up prices. Regulars swear by the black squid ink pappardelle, thick oceanic ribbons of pasta entangled with plump shrimp and savory crab meat in salty tomato essence. Homemade gnocchi is plain and hearty, and a tender veal chop exudes woodsy goodness beneath a smattering of mushrooms.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoDon't look for any baked specialties--there's no oven on the premises.
Where To SitBe sure to ask for a table well out of range of the smoking section--this place is small enough that one cig makes a difference.
User Reviews for Tre Scalini
03/28/2007 Posted by tamablue
This place is great. It's no wonder they've been in business for so long. One of the things that impressed me the most was the service. For example, our server wouldn't take my empty plate away until my husband had finished his meal -- this is very old school but it's proper serving etiquette (I'm a real stickler for details). Clearing my husband's plate while I'm still eating always makes me feel rushed. I can't say enough how delightful it was to be in a restaurant where the staff seemed genuinely flattered to have you there. No wonder, we soon learned that our server was part owner (his wife is the hostess and his mother-in-law is the chef). They recently expanded and moved down the street from their original (small) location to a larger venue. The two adjoining dining rooms are set up in a way that accommodates larger parties in one room but also leaves smaller tables for couples and foursomes. I appreciated the way they spaced everyone out - a lot of BYOs try to cram as many tables in as possible, to the point where you're often seated less than a foot away from the couple next to you. We indulged in a three course meal and enjoyed every part of the meal. To his credit, our server tried to talk us out of ordering so much food (he was right - we took home a doggie bag). For his "prima plati" my husband had mussels which were large and succulent and came in a lovely, light broth (excellent for the bread!) For our "secondi" we both had absolutely amazing homemade pasta. My husband's gnocchi was probably the best I've ever had. for me, nothing beats a great tomato sauce and Tre Scalini does not disappoint. Our final course was a lamb dish which was tasty but I prefer mine a little rarer -- I asked for "medium rare" and it arrived medium. Although, I must state that my husband disagreed with me and thought it was excellent. Needless to say, we did not have room for dessert, but are looking forward to returning.
Pros: The food and the service
Cons: Parking, maybe (we walked but I didn't notice any parking)
10/26/2006 Posted by ktodaaren
Now if you are off for an evening of fine dining in an intimate setting, then you have found the right place. The food is with out a question true Italian cooking. So if you are expecting spaghetti and meatballs I bet you would be disappointed, hahahaha. The food is always fresh and always prepared to perfection. Try the beans and shrimp followed by the swordfish, you'll thank me.
Pros: anything on the menu...
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