Momo Italian Specialities

This week we decided to try a spot that has been in existence for quite a while- Momo Italian Specialities. On their website, they claim to only make authentic Italian cuisine and after dining there, we believe them. They also claim to be the best kept secret - well, we're letting the cat out of the bag on this one.

The restaurant is located off of Forrest Lane and Greenville avenue in an unassuming shopping center. It is neither fancy, nor crowded. Instead you will find a wood burning pizza oven and a roaring fire in the front room.

We were served warm foccacia bread with a pesto spread on the side. Then, we ordered the house salads to start. These were served as generous portions and topped with marinated tomatoes, fresh celery,walnuts and a balsamic vinaigrette. All around good flavor without being saturated.

For the entrees, we were in the mood for cheese. We ordered the quatro formaggi risotto and the quatro formaggi gnocchi. The risotto had a very home cooked flavor served with peas and carrots mixed in. At first glance, you may think that they used a short cut with frozen veggies; upon the first taste you realize that you were wrong. The vegetables were crisp and just the right texture to pair with the rich risotto.

The gnocchi were wonderful potato puffs served in a decadent sauce of Fontina, Gruyere, Gorgonzola, and Parmesan. The gnocchi weren't too dense and the sauce was one of those things I wish I could make at home, but then again, I'm glad I can't. Delicious. We traded dishes back and forth, and neither of us could predict a taste test winner. They were both wonderful and well prepared.

This spot is BYOB/W, so make sure you stop by the store on your way to dinner. Also - take a look at the dessert menu. We were too full to properly do it service, but several items were appealing.

Thanks Momo Italian Specialities, for a warm and cozy winter meal.

The Dish: If it has four cheeses, give it a go.