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April 13, 2006

Elegant dining in a space with added spunk

By Stephanie Janucik

Spring is officially here and instead of rushing home from work to get out of the cold, I now find myself booking appointments for pedicures, shopping for short sleeves and meeting friends for drinks and snacks (with the sunroof open, of course).

But lately, I've been having trouble deciding where to meet for some fun. I’m past the “18 and over� crowd but not entirely ready to settle down with crochet hooks.

When you’re in that in-between stage and not quite ready to party until you’re sick (like many young venues seem to produce), but not yet ready to join that private club your parents belong to, it’s tough to find places you feel comfortable in. I had to do a little research to find some spots we “in-between bodies� can go to have a nice evening out.

Although the New Haven scene can seem a bit overrated, I frequent it often because it’s on my way home from work and there always seems to be something new to do.

A friend and co-worker told me about Avellino’s Trattoria (4 Orange Street, New Haven; 777-1177), an Italian wine bar that offers an elegant dining experience and adds some spunk to its space.

On a Thursday evening, a few girls from work and I ventured there for dinner. Conveniently, we parked in a lot right across the street and received a ticket that Avellino’s later validated; it was nice to know that parking wasn’t a hassle, unlike most parking in New Haven.

Christina Stilu, 23, who recently became a co-owner, explained that the establishment is veering more toward the mature, sophisticated crowd, as the college party scene in New Haven can get old. And this place is definitely sophisticated. As we sat down for dinner at a table by the window, we were brought a complimentary plate of brushetta before we even ordered.

That set us up for what was to come: fried calamari, spicy seared rare tuna over crab risotto ($24), tilapia con crosta d’Oliva ($19) and pollo alla Fiorentina ($18). All of it was absolutely delicious. Although it was a bit pricey and not something I’d indulge in every weekend, I could definitely get used to these kinds of treats.

And speaking of which, a delectable, warm flourless cake and pear sorbet, along with coffee, tea and espresso and sambuca, ended our dinner quite nicely. From there, it was time to check out the bar.

Accented by candles and dim lighting, the bar features cushioned benches and throw pillows, something a little different.

Sit nestled in the crowd or tuck yourself and your date in a private bar table for two. The wine selections are endless and not what you’d find just anywhere. And wines like Zenato Ripassa Valpolicella, Luce, Livon Tocai and Santa Stefano are on the menu, too. Although there is no outdoor area to enjoy your dinner, appetizers, or drinks, the in-door Tuscan atmosphere makes up for it.
And don’t miss out on the unique Fridays, either. From 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Avellino’s hosts “wine lovers happy hour,� a time to get a taste of featured wines and rate them for yourself when you purchase 3 to 5 ounce carafes.

Whether you’re up for superb dining or classy bar fun, Avellino’s may just be the spot. I can see this becoming a regular hangout for those of us “in between.�

For more information, visit www.avellinostrattoria.com.

Posted by getout on April 13, 2006 8:00 AM