Ricciardi's Italian Table in Brownwood

[BK001]

After shopping the farmer's market this weekend, we sat at the bar at Ricciardi's for a couple of Margarita's.

We also ordered some appetizers:

Fried Calamari, Mussels, and a small pizza. All three were delicious and really complemented the Margaritas.

Looking forward to going back for a proper dinner.

[Trish Miller]

They suck!!!!

[RickeyD]

They suck!!!!



Excellent take on this establishment. Perhaps you can elaborate ?

[RickeyD]

I'm accustomed to good Italian food by way of marriage and living near NYC. Ricciardi's isn't the best, but it ain't that bad.

[Bogie Shooter]

They suck!!!!

What does this mean?

[Mimivillager]

Their veal Parm is great!

[bagboy]

They suck!!!!

Very eloquent...

[Chatbrat]

Too, everyone who thinks Ricciardis is great or even good-you've never had REAL Italian food , honestly they would not last 3 months in Brooklyn, the Bronx, S Philly

Their food is great in Kansas, Iowa Wisconsin--get the message its pure junk

[Bogie Shooter]

I take it you don't go there..............................

[biker1]

Totally meaningless comment. There are some good items on the menu and a few things to avoid, as is true with many restaurants.. I have had real Italian food and I am Italian. Are you?

Too, everyone who thinks Ricciardis is great or even good-you've never had REAL Italian food , honestly they would not last 3 months in Brooklyn, the Bronx, S Philly

Their food is great in Kansas, Iowa Wisconsin--get the message its pure junk

[Chatbrat]

Been there twice--never again, its like eating nursing home food--pure drek--I know better

[biker1]

Good - stay away.

Been there twice--never again, its like eating nursing home food--pure drek--I know better

[Chatbrat]

I'm not Italian but I've built some of the best Italian restaurants in NJ and their chefs taught me how to cook some of their specialties--there is nothing close to rudimentary good Italian food here such as Chicken Scarparelli, Lobster Fra-Diaviolo, real Zuppe di Pesce--get the picture-pizza & pamagiano dishes is HS grade Italian.

[biker1]

Your not Italian? Sorry, the discussion is now over.

I'm not Italian but I've built some of the best Italian restaurants in NJ and their chefs taught me how to cook some of their specialties--there is nothing close to rudimentary good Italian food here such as Chicken Scarparelli, Lobster Fra-Diaviolo, real Zuppe di Pesce--get the picture-pizza & pamagiano dishes is HS grade Italian.

[Shimpy]

Too, everyone who thinks Ricciardis is great or even good-you've never had REAL Italian food , honestly they would not last 3 months in Brooklyn, the Bronx, S Philly

Their food is great in Kansas, Iowa Wisconsin--get the message its pure junk

So.............EVERYTHING is better in NY and the rest of the world is ignorant? Why do NY'ers move away from such a paradise?

[RickeyD]

Your not Italian? Sorry, the discussion is now over.



Lol

[dbussone]

Lol



I'm staying out of this. I'm an Italian from Boston. I've found things I like or don't care for in most restaurants. Usually it's a matter of personal taste.

[Chatbrat]

I'm on the the opinion a lot of the posters on this thread must really like Chef Boyardee

[John_W]

I remember when they opened and I looked at their website. Before this place, they owned and operated something like 5 pizza carry outs in the Orlando area. So this was like their first attempt at a real sit down restaurant. We tried the pizza twice and it wasn't bad, but I believe they only offered one size for $10. It was too big for one person and too small for two. Maybe they have changed since then. I always like Giovannis at Southern Trace between Ace Hardware and Publix, in fact ate there this week. Their prices are unreal. For lunch a plate of spaghetti with meat sauce, a nice salad and garlic bread is about $6.95.

[RickeyD]

I'm staying out of this. I'm an Italian from Boston. I've found things I like or don't care for in most restaurants. Usually it's a matter of personal taste.

It's Prince spaghetti day !:1rotfl:

[biker1]

The trick with all restaurants is to find the items they do well at a good price. Sort of like buying wine; the trick is to get something you really like at a good price. I haven't been there yet. Thanks for sharing.

I remember when they opened and I looked at their website. Before this place, they owned and operated something like 5 pizza carry outs in the Orlando area. So this was like their first attempt at a real sit down restaurant. We tried the pizza twice and it wasn't bad, but I believe they only offered one size for $10. It was too big for one person and too small for two. Maybe they have changed since then. I always like Giovannis at Southern Trace between Ace Hardware and Publix, in fact ate there this week. Their prices are unreal. For lunch a plate of spaghetti with meat sauce, a nice salad and garlic bread is about $6.95.

[RickeyD]

So.............EVERYTHING is better in NY and the rest of the world is ignorant? Why do NY'ers move away from such a paradise?

Because when we got here we made our own paradise amongst all the New Yorkers here :crap2:

[Ecuadog]

So.............EVERYTHING is better in NY and the rest of the world is ignorant? Why do NY'ers move away from such a paradise?

Too many tourists?

[Nucky]

I'm accustomed to good Italian food by way of marriage and living near NYC. Ricciardi's isn't the best, but it ain't that bad.

Mamma Mia! I had pizza when I was in TV it really was poor. I kept the location to myself maybe they just had a bad day. You know how hard it is to run a small business no less a restaurant? Everything is always better where we came from, it's a proper observation to say go back if it's so good. The longer you are involved in TOTV you realize who is talking out of their butt and finds fault with everything and those that have a legit negative observation. We in NJ are not all pinheads. I can see how we get negative reviews from others. Being direct like RickeyD is good, being a braggart isn't. Act Accordingly.

[dotti105]

We have have many wonderful meals at Riccardi's.
No it is not NY Italian, but "Hello! you are not in NY" so why even make that comparison?
If you don't care for their food, go elsewhere! More room for those of us who choose to enjoy their great menu!

[dbussone]

It's Prince spaghetti day !:1rotfl:



That's on Wednesday, Anthony! :)

[villagetinker]

We have have many wonderful meals at Riccardi's.
No it is not NY Italian, but "Hello! you are not in NY" so why even make that comparison?
If you don't care for their food, go elsewhere! More room for those of us who choose to enjoy their great menu!

We agree completely, have had several good to very good meals, have had guests and friends there and all enjoyed the meals.
To each his/her own, and thank you for the extra tables.

[graciegirl]

Mamma Mia! I had pizza when I was in TV it really was poor. I kept the location to myself maybe they just had a bad day. You know how hard it is to run a small business no less a restaurant? Everything is always better where we came from, it's a proper observation to say go back if it's so good. The longer you are involved in TOTV you realize who is talking out of their butt and finds fault with everything and those that have a legit negative observation. We in NJ are not all pinheads. I can see how we get negative reviews from others. Being direct like RickeyD is good, being a braggart isn't. Act Accordingly.

The BEST pizza is the kind we grew up with Nucky and most of us feel homesick for our remembered wonderful kind and it will be argued that is thick or thin crust, sugar or no sugar in the sauce, cheese over or under the sauce etc. etc. etc. I know in my heart that my longing for LaRosa's pizza will only be satisfied when I cross the bridge over the old muddy when we return to Ohio.

[Nucky]

So what is the percentage of people who say this restaurant is pretty good? A very high percentage, can we agree on that? Take the main source of the criticism with a grain of salt...or a pinch of salt.

[Taltarzac725]

So what is the percentage of people who say this restaurant is pretty good? A very high percentage, can we agree on that? Take the main source of the criticism with a grain of salt...or a pinch of salt.

We went there once about six months ago. It was good. I had a chicken parmesan submarine sandwich as did my older brother. Very large sandwich.

[Northwoods]

///

[CFrance]

So what is the percentage of people who say this restaurant is pretty good? A very high percentage, can we agree on that? Take the main source of the criticism with a grain of salt...or a pinch of salt.
I suggest throwing out the top positive view and the bottom negative view, and go from there.

When I was not watching what I eat, I had a very good fettuccine there. When I was, I had a decent veal Marsala. The waiter walked by with a pizza which my husband thought looked good--although not as good as the pizza the Italian family made in their little shop on Ardmore Blvd. back in the '70s & '80s.

[Lovey2]

I'm Italian, I'm from Philly, I had a Nana and a Grandmom (read: all homemade gnocchis, spagetti, gravy, sausage, meatballs) and too many home cooked big Italian dinners to count. Here's what I found: I LOVE Italian food, and I can find a good dish to satisfy me almost anywhere! Do I love some better than others? Of course, Yes! (I liked my Mother's way better than Aunt Maria's, but I'd never turn down a meal there!) Might I return to that restaurant, mostly because I love the strolling singers and THAT DAMN GOOD FOOD SMELL!, but order something else? Probably! Then again, gimme a plate of olive oil and some good bread...and I'm happy already! Yes, it's about the food, but it's also about the experience...the family you're with, the friends...and if that happens to be chicken parmigiana that night, or a bowl of gnocchis (just kill me!), I'm in. I believe I can have bad food in Philly and excellent food in The Villages, to think otherwise is very close minded. Same goes for everywhere, and yes, a lot of our tastes depend on where we were raised and what we've grown to love. But, truth be told, I'm happy to be here in the winter, rather than in Philly eating Amoroso rolls, Pat's cheese steaks and soft pretzels!

[villagetinker]

Lovey2,
I grew up in suburban philly, and worked for a few years in northeast philly, I remember Amoroso rolls, wish I could find them here.

I am half Italian, one set of grandparents came from Sicily, I had the same experiences you did, and I agree with you comments.
VT

[dbussone]

I'm Italian, I'm from Philly, I had a Nana and a Grandmom (read: all homemade gnocchis, spagetti, gravy, sausage, meatballs) and too many home cooked big Italian dinners to count. Here's what I found: I LOVE Italian food, and I can find a good dish to satisfy me almost anywhere! Do I love some better than others? Of course, Yes! (I liked my Mother's way better than Aunt Maria's, but I'd never turn down a meal there!) Might I return to that restaurant, mostly because I love the strolling singers and THAT DAMN GOOD FOOD SMELL!, but order something else? Probably! Then again, gimme a plate of olive oil and some good bread...and I'm happy already! Yes, it's about the food, but it's also about the experience...the family you're with, the friends...and if that happens to be chicken parmigiana that night, or a bowl of gnocchis (just kill me!), I'm in. I believe I can have bad food in Philly and excellent food in The Villages, to think otherwise is very close minded. Same goes for everywhere, and yes, a lot of our tastes depend on where we were raised and what we've grown to love. But, truth be told, I'm happy to be here in the winter, rather than in Philly eating Amoroso rolls, Pat's cheese steaks and soft pretzels!



There you go! :thumbup:

[BK001]

I certainly didn’t intend to start a maelstrom. In my original comment I could have added “for here”. As in “After shopping the farmer's market this weekend, we sat at the bar at Ricciardi's for a couple of Margarita's. We also ordered some appetizers: Fried Calamari, Mussels, and a small pizza. All three were delicious. FOR HERE. Wouldn't that have been rude?

From the day we arrived I told my husband we will not compare anything to home. TV is a new adventure (and our final chapter) and we must learn to develop interests and new tastes.

You want the best meatballs – go to Martorano’s in Philly. You want great pizza, go to LB Spumoni Gardens or Di Fara’s in Brooklyn, Steak? No one beats Peter Luger’s, seafood - Randazzo's in Sheepshead Bay. But we no longer will be going to any of these restaurants.

As of this Friday, The Villages will be our home and we will continue to explore and try to find food that is appropriate to our “New York palate” and not offend any by comparing what is here to what we left behind.

My BIGGEST reservation in moving here was that I would be unable to find restaurants that my husband and I would like given the preponderance of chain restaurants. But if you look hard enough, you can find something close enough. And one adjusts. We had lunch last week at Red Sauce – great? No. Acceptable? yes. The waiter also recommended: Mom and Dad’s Italian, Sams St. John’s, and the Fruitland Park Café. The dog groomer recommended Magnolia Street Oysters. Someone else suggested we take the drive to 4 Rivers BBQ for their Brontosaurus Ribs. Indian? – We will try Amrit in Ocala. So there are new culinary adventures on our list which I am sure will continue to grow. Will we enjoy them? Maybe. Will they taste like what we were accustomed to in NY - probably not.

[Ecuadog]

... although not as good as the pizza the Italian family made in their little shop on Ardmore Blvd. back in the '70s & '80s.

Vincent's?

[NYGUY]

I certainly didn’t intend to start a maelstrom. In my original comment I could have added “for here”. As in “After shopping the farmer's market this weekend, we sat at the bar at Ricciardi's for a couple of Margarita's. We also ordered some appetizers: Fried Calamari, Mussels, and a small pizza. All three were delicious. FOR HERE. Wouldn't that have been rude?

From the day we arrived I told my husband we will not compare anything to home. TV is a new adventure (and our final chapter) and we must learn to develop interests and new tastes.

You want the best meatballs – go to Martorano’s in Philly. You want great pizza, go to LB Spumoni Gardens or Di Fara’s in Brooklyn, Steak? No one beats Peter Luger’s, seafood - Randazzo's in Sheepshead Bay. But we no longer will be going to any of these restaurants.

As of this Friday, The Villages will be our home and we will continue to explore and try to find food that is appropriate to our “New York palate” and not offend any by comparing what is here to what we left behind.

My BIGGEST reservation in moving here was that I would be unable to find restaurants that my husband and I would like given the preponderance of chain restaurants. But if you look hard enough, you can find something close enough. And one adjusts. We had lunch last week at Red Sauce – great? No. Acceptable? yes. The waiter also recommended: Mom and Dad’s Italian, Sams St. John’s, and the Fruitland Park Café. The dog groomer recommended Magnolia Street Oysters. Someone else suggested we take the drive to 4 Rivers BBQ for their Brontosaurus Ribs. Indian? – We will try Amrit in Ocala. So there are new culinary adventures on our list which I am sure will continue to grow. Will we enjoy them? Maybe. Will they taste like what we were accustomed to in NY - probably not.

:BigApplause::BigApplause:

[BK001]

I remember when they opened and I looked at their website. Before this place, they owned and operated something like 5 pizza carry outs in the Orlando area. So this was like their first attempt at a real sit down restaurant. We tried the pizza twice and it wasn't bad, but I believe they only offered one size for $10. It was too big for one person and too small for two. Maybe they have changed since then. I always like Giovannis at Southern Trace between Ace Hardware and Publix, in fact ate there this week. Their prices are unreal. For lunch a plate of spaghetti with meat sauce, a nice salad and garlic bread is about $6.95.

Giovanni's? I'm adding them to my list -- sounds like a great "after shopping" lunch destination. Thanks.

[malbe]

We are also from Eastern PA close to the Lehigh Valley and Amoroso Rolls are the best!!

[scrapple]

I'm on the the opinion a lot of the posters on this thread must really like Chef Boyardee

I'm of the opinion you have very little tolerance for others.

[RickeyD]

I'm on the the opinion a lot of the posters on this thread must really like Chef Boyardee



Actually it was Chef Boiardi. Thank goodness he Americanized the name.

[mrscrimefighter]

I certainly didn’t intend to start a maelstrom. In my original comment I could have added “for here”. As in “After shopping the farmer's market this weekend, we sat at the bar at Ricciardi's for a couple of Margarita's. We also ordered some appetizers: Fried Calamari, Mussels, and a small pizza. All three were delicious. FOR HERE. Wouldn't that have been rude?

From the day we arrived I told my husband we will not compare anything to home. TV is a new adventure (and our final chapter) and we must learn to develop interests and new tastes.

You want the best meatballs – go to Martorano’s in Philly. You want great pizza, go to LB Spumoni Gardens or Di Fara’s in Brooklyn, Steak? No one beats Peter Luger’s, seafood - Randazzo's in Sheepshead Bay. But we no longer will be going to any of these restaurants.

As of this Friday, The Villages will be our home and we will continue to explore and try to find food that is appropriate to our “New York palate” and not offend any by comparing what is here to what we left behind.

My BIGGEST reservation in moving here was that I would be unable to find restaurants that my husband and I would like given the preponderance of chain restaurants. But if you look hard enough, you can find something close enough. And one adjusts. We had lunch last week at Red Sauce – great? No. Acceptable? yes. The waiter also recommended: Mom and Dad’s Italian, Sams St. John’s, and the Fruitland Park Café. The dog groomer recommended Magnolia Street Oysters. Someone else suggested we take the drive to 4 Rivers BBQ for their Brontosaurus Ribs. Indian? – We will try Amrit in Ocala. So there are new culinary adventures on our list which I am sure will continue to grow. Will we enjoy them? Maybe. Will they taste like what we were accustomed to in NY - probably not.

What a great post!! Well stated and I couldn't agree more..

[2BNTV]

I certainly didn’t intend to start a maelstrom. In my original comment I could have added “for here”. As in “After shopping the farmer's market this weekend, we sat at the bar at Ricciardi's for a couple of Margarita's. We also ordered some appetizers: Fried Calamari, Mussels, and a small pizza. All three were delicious. FOR HERE. Wouldn't that have been rude?

From the day we arrived I told my husband we will not compare anything to home. TV is a new adventure (and our final chapter) and we must learn to develop interests and new tastes.

You want the best meatballs – go to Martorano’s in Philly. You want great pizza, go to LB Spumoni Gardens or Di Fara’s in Brooklyn, Steak? No one beats Peter Luger’s, seafood - Randazzo's in Sheepshead Bay. But we no longer will be going to any of these restaurants.

As of this Friday, The Villages will be our home and we will continue to explore and try to find food that is appropriate to our “New York palate” and not offend any by comparing what is here to what we left behind.

My BIGGEST reservation in moving here was that I would be unable to find restaurants that my husband and I would like given the preponderance of chain restaurants. But if you look hard enough, you can find something close enough. And one adjusts. We had lunch last week at Red Sauce – great? No. Acceptable? yes. The waiter also recommended: Mom and Dad’s Italian, Sams St. John’s, and the Fruitland Park Café. The dog groomer recommended Magnolia Street Oysters. Someone else suggested we take the drive to 4 Rivers BBQ for their Brontosaurus Ribs. Indian? – We will try Amrit in Ocala. So there are new culinary adventures on our list which I am sure will continue to grow. Will we enjoy them? Maybe. Will they taste like what we were accustomed to in NY - probably not.

:agree:

The downside to TV is that food is not of the gourmet type, but still appetizing. No one will get an Italian meal that was made at home, especially if the pasta was made form scratch.

Mom and Dad's for Spinach Lasagna and other homemade pasta.
Chef's of Napoli
Goivanni's
Little Joey's

Other decent restaurants are:
Oakwood on 441 for BBQ ribs.
Paella - Latinos Y Mas on 301 in Ocala

BTW - I have never eaten at Riccardi's in Brownwwod so I guess someday I will try it. I also want to try the Brazilian Steak House in Ocala. Across the street for Latino's Y Mas.

Some people are food snobs. I thankfully don't have discriminate taste buds but I know good food when I eat it, but I am easily satisfied. I am from NY but don't have biases against the food served in TV but have noticed the quality isn't as good but you adapt and move on. I also think it is fun to discover some of the better restaurants in TV and it's surrounding areas.

[Nucky]

I certainly didn’t intend to start a maelstrom. In my original comment I could have added “for here”. As in “After shopping the farmer's market this weekend, we sat at the bar at Ricciardi's for a couple of Margarita's. We also ordered some appetizers: Fried Calamari, Mussels, and a small pizza. All three were delicious. FOR HERE. Wouldn't that have been rude?

From the day we arrived I told my husband we will not compare anything to home. TV is a new adventure (and our final chapter) and we must learn to develop interests and new tastes.

You want the best meatballs – go to Martorano’s in Philly. You want great pizza, go to LB Spumoni Gardens or Di Fara’s in Brooklyn, Steak? No one beats Peter Luger’s, seafood - Randazzo's in Sheepshead Bay. But we no longer will be going to any of these restaurants.

As of this Friday, The Villages will be our home and we will continue to explore and try to find food that is appropriate to our “New York palate” and not offend any by comparing what is here to what we left behind.

My BIGGEST reservation in moving here was that I would be unable to find restaurants that my husband and I would like given the preponderance of chain restaurants. But if you look hard enough, you can find something close enough. And one adjusts. We had lunch last week at Red Sauce – great? No. Acceptable? yes. The waiter also recommended: Mom and Dad’s Italian, Sams St. John’s, and the Fruitland Park Café. The dog groomer recommended Magnolia Street Oysters. Someone else suggested we take the drive to 4 Rivers BBQ for their Brontosaurus Ribs. Indian? – We will try Amrit in Ocala. So there are new culinary adventures on our list which I am sure will continue to grow. Will we enjoy them? Maybe. Will they taste like what we were accustomed to in NY - probably not.

Such a thoughtful post...there was nothing wrong with the first one either. You are a credit to the maligned people of the tri-state area. After what you both went through to get to TV it is wise to assimalate and make your new life the best you can. You are a great example of positivity for others who struggle.:BigApplause:

[FoPAA]

My two cents - about two weeks ago my sister, brother and spouses came to visit from the San Francisco area. We had eaten at Ricciardis close to when it opened and were very impressed, but we hadn't eaten there since. Dinner started off auspiciously with the hors d'oeuvres which were served promptly and everyone enjoyed. Then we waited and waited and WAITED for our entrees. Three of us had ordered lambchops - which were one step above inedible, lukewarm and not medium rare as ordered. On the other hand, my sister loved her pasta dish. Overall a big disappointment for us and I won't be going back.

[biker1]

Did you send the lamb chops back and order something else?

My two cents - about two weeks ago my sister, brother and spouses came to visit from the San Francisco area. We had eaten at Ricciardis close to when it opened and were very impressed, but we hadn't eaten there since. Dinner started off auspiciously with the hors d'oeuvres which were served promptly and everyone enjoyed. Then we waited and waited and WAITED for our entrees. Three of us had ordered lambchops - which were one step above inedible, lukewarm and not medium rare as ordered. On the other hand, my sister loved her pasta dish. Overall a big disappointment for us and I won't be going back.

[FoPAA]

No, we got there about 7:30 and by the time we got the lamb chops it was around 8:45. We were the last people in the restaurant. Also, we did eat the chops, they just weren't good. Maybe I'll go back sometime but it's definitely off my list of restaurants to impress visitors.

[Lovey2]

Lovey2,
I grew up in suburban philly, and worked for a few years in northeast philly, I remember Amoroso rolls, wish I could find them here.

I am half Italian, one set of grandparents came from Sicily, I had the same experiences you did, and I agree with you comments.
VT

Hahaha...yeah, they are the best, for sure! And my Mother would say you're not 1/2 Italian, you're 1/2 Sicilian! :) Why the Sigi's always made that distinction, I don't know, but I am 1/2 Sigi and 1/2 Calabrese. Thanks for the response!!

[biker1]

This situation is always a challenge for any restaurant. You received a meal that had issues but didn't give them the opportunity to make it right. I realize that time was running late. I believe in sending meals back when they are not up to par and giving the restaurant a chance to make it right before providing a negative review in a public forum. You are not doing the restaurant any favors by not alerting them to a poorly prepared meal.

No, we got there about 7:30 and by the time we got the lamb chops it was around 8:45. We were the last people in the restaurant. Also, we did eat the chops, they just weren't good. Maybe I'll go back sometime but it's definitely off my list of restaurants to impress visitors.

[Chatbrat]

We went to Ricciardis twice--sent Zuppe di Pesce back. asked about their bread , the owner's son who is the mgr, said this is their bread--"thats all they have"

The cocktails @ the bar were really light pours and since we drink premium --forget about happy hour.

Now to the person who had lousy lamb chops--were they cooked Italian /style ?

And honestly, why do people heap praise on mediocrity---just because its the only show in town.

My wife is 50% Romano & 50% Calabrese--her family still owns a resort in Lago Balsano, in Italy.

Not blowing my horn, but to each his own.

Don't settle, you deserve better.

[CFrance]

Lago Bolzano?

[Chatbrat]

Its a lake north & east of Rome

[FoPAA]

This situation is always a challenge for any restaurant. You received a meal that had issues but didn't give them the opportunity to make it right. I realize that time was running late. I believe in sending meals back when they are not up to par and giving the restaurant a chance to make it right before providing a negative review in a public forum. You are not doing the restaurant any favors by not alerting them to a poorly prepared meal.
Just saying that was my experience there. There was no way we were going to send our meals back at closing time! Sometimes you only get one chance.

[CFrance]

Its a lake north & east of Rome

I know what and where Lago Bolzano is. Your spelling was different. I'm always checking out places to visit in Italy.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Best Margaritas in the Brownwood area are at the little Mexican place in Wildwood Center (by the post office) Better bring a designated
driver with you! LOL

[Cathy H]

Too, everyone who thinks Ricciardis is great or even good-you've never had REAL Italian food , honestly they would not last 3 months in Brooklyn, the Bronx, S Philly

Their food is great in Kansas, Iowa Wisconsin--get the message its pure junkyes, coming from those places the "Italian" food in TV is blah..blah

[Down Sized]

Too, everyone who thinks Ricciardis is great or even good-you've never had REAL Italian food , honestly they would not last 3 months in Brooklyn, the Bronx, S Philly

Their food is great in Kansas, Iowa Wisconsin--get the message its pure junk

Most of us here wouldn't last ther either! Nice place to be FROM.

[600th Photo Sq]

Ricciardis Restaurant ?

Fasten your seat belt folks, close your eyes pretend your are at 35,000 ft...cruising @525 mph and now being served a plate of Pasta aka Ricciardis ...and that's it..Airline Grub. Plus their whole menu is what is typically served at any Airline Terminal. One step above food that is served in hospital's. Oh by the way release the seat belt ....

I actually spoke to the owner and his mgr (son) and questioned them both on the lack of flavor and really the bland gravy ( sauce ) and they replied we cater to the Villages taste. With that ...I just smiled and went on my way. They must have a loyal following though why is anyone's guess.

The only positive opinion that I have about Ricciardis is they have Cold Peroni Beer on tap...that's it. Their menu, and wine list is lousy. :yuck:

[Chatbrat]

Amen-thank you for being more tactful, than I could ever be--when I said it was like nursing home food I got jumped on- honestly Giovanni's is light years ahead of Ricciardis

[Shimpy]

Most of us here wouldn't last ther either! Nice place to be FROM.

:bigbow:

[Golfer92]

Yes, they have wonderful food. Nice atmosphere also

[Aloha1]

Italian? Which Italian? Are we talking about East Coast Italian American? Tuscan Italian? Sicilian Italian? Napoli Italian? Lazio Italian
( Rome)?

Each of these areas serves Italian food but each is DIFFERENT! It all depends what you like. Some of us grew up with Sunday Gravy, NYC style. Some with "The Chef in a Can". Whatever. Nobody says you have to like all styles of Italian cooking. Just find a place that caters to your wants or open one.

For me, fresh homemade pasta, meat and pesce is the first determinant of my restaurant choice. Pass those gates and I'm in.

[Chatbrat]

Kapalua Bay, one of the greatest hotels, too bad its gone-now time shares & condos- we were there in 81

Aloha 1--you must have had some great times there

[Taltarzac725]

The Villages Gourmet Club Restaurant Reviews Page 1 (http://thevillagesgourmetclub.com/page1.html#R)

Check the Villages Gourmet Club for more reviews of places.

We ate there once. It was OK. Ricciardi's Italian Table 3660 Kiessel Rd., The Villages, FL. 391-9939. (Italian) (Pizza)

[Bonny]

Please, please.... Stop talking about the food "back home" !!! No one cares, we don't live there.
I'm from Michigan. We had some wonderful food and lots of my favorite restaurants, but I don't live there anymore. I live here.
I can find something good everywhere I go.
I love all kinds of food.
My pet peeve is when someone comes on here or other forums and asks where's a good place to eat around the Villages and responses come back, nowhere, you have to go to Philly, New York, Chicago.... etc. :ohdear:

[CFrance]

Please, please.... Stop talking about the food "back home" !!! No one cares, we don't live there.
I'm from Michigan. We had some wonderful food and lots of my favorite restaurants, but I don't live there anymore. I live here.
I can find something good everywhere I go.
I love all kinds of food.
My pet peeve is when someone comes on here or other forums and asks where's a good place to eat around the Villages and responses come back, nowhere, you have to go to Philly, New York, Chicago.... etc. :ohdear:
Everyone has his own criteria about food, so it's not a question that can be answered anyway. Get online, forage out (pun intended) and make your own choices.

Except I will say it's helpful when someone does find a particular food that's as good as "back home," and lets everyone know. An example is the Michigan lake perch at the Shell station on 466A.

[Bonny]

Everyone has his own criteria about food, so it's not a question that can be answered anyway. Get online, forage out (pun intended) and make your own choices.

Except I will say it's helpful when someone does find a particular food that's as good as "back home," and lets everyone know. An example is the Michigan lake perch at the Shell station on 466A.
That I appreciate. It just gets old when people say those who eat in our Village restaurants & Country Clubs, have no taste buds, don't know good food, probably grew up on Chef Boyardee, etc.
Just a small rant from me. LOL :D

[CFrance]

That I appreciate. It just gets old when people say those who eat in our Village restaurants & Country Clubs, have no taste buds, don't know good food, probably grew up on Chef Boyardee, etc.
Just a small rant from me. LOL :D
Agree.

[Villager Joyce]

Please, please.... Stop talking about the food "back home" !!! No one cares, we don't live there.
I'm from Michigan. We had some wonderful food and lots of my favorite restaurants, but I don't live there anymore. I live here.
I can find something good everywhere I go.
I love all kinds of food.
My pet peeve is when someone comes on here or other forums and asks where's a good place to eat around the Villages and responses come back, nowhere, you have to go to Philly, New York, Chicago.... etc. :ohdear:

:BigApplause::BigApplause:
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

[RickeyD]

Please, please.... Stop talking about the food "back home" !!! No one cares, we don't live there.

I'm from Michigan. We had some wonderful food and lots of my favorite restaurants, but I don't live there anymore. I live here.

I can find something good everywhere I go.

I love all kinds of food.

My pet peeve is when someone comes on here or other forums and asks where's a good place to eat around the Villages and responses come back, nowhere, you have to go to Philly, New York, Chicago.... etc. :ohdear:



What if someone asks how to get to a good doctor ? And the reply is MCO or TPA ?

[Bonny]

What if someone asks how to get to a good doctor ? And the reply is MCO or TPA ?
Definitely not the same thing. That is about someone's health. Orlando or Tampa is certainly not unreasonable.
I'm talking about telling people to go to New York, Chicago, etc to eat a meal. Quite a bit different.

[RickeyD]

Definitely not the same thing. That is about someone's health. Orlando or Tampa is certainly not unreasonable.

I'm talking about telling people to go to New York, Chicago, etc to eat a meal. Quite a bit different.



Is feeds back to living in Central Florida in general. Wouldn't consider living here if it weren't for the Villages. Probably would be in North Carolina instead.

[dewilson58]

Definitely not the same thing. That is about someone's health. Orlando or Tampa is certainly not unreasonable.
I'm talking about telling people to go to New York, Chicago, etc to eat a meal. Quite a bit different.

I agree............."This pizza is nothing like NY." "This seafood is nothing like Boston." "The pasta around here is nothing like Italy." "This pizza is nothing like Chicago."

:mmmm:

[RickeyD]

I agree............."This pizza is nothing like NY." "This seafood is nothing like Boston." "The pasta around here is nothing like Italy." "This pizza is nothing like Chicago."



:mmmm:



Unfortunately all correct but I'm not a foodie. I can live without the best.

[Bonny]

I agree............."This pizza is nothing like NY." "This seafood is nothing like Boston." "The pasta around here is nothing like Italy." "This pizza is nothing like Chicago."

:mmmm:
That being said, it ain't Michigan either. We had excellent food, but I like the warmer weather in Florida. :thumbup: LOL

[Taltarzac725]

That being said, it ain't Michigan either. We had excellent food, but I like the warmer weather in Florida. :thumbup: LOL

Where in Michigan?

Different places have different strengths for cuisine.

Did the Morses bring any of their favorite restaurants with them in the way of chefs from these areas????

[Bonny]

Where in Michigan?

Different places have different strengths for cuisine.

Did the Morses bring any of their favorite restaurants with them in the way of chefs from these areas????
East, west and tip of the thumb. :) Troy, Rochester, Hazel Park, Harbor Beach, Grand Rapids.
I think they brought from the restaurant in Brownwood up by Traverse City.

[bluedog103]

This situation is always a challenge for any restaurant. You received a meal that had issues but didn't give them the opportunity to make it right. I realize that time was running late. I believe in sending meals back when they are not up to par and giving the restaurant a chance to make it right before providing a negative review in a public forum. You are not doing the restaurant any favors by not alerting them to a poorly prepared meal.

When I was a young man I worked in more than one restaurant and one thing I learned is to NEVER send food back to the kitchen. You would be astounded to see what happens to your food.
If I'm unhappy with my meal I'll inform the manager but that's as far as it goes. I really don't want anyone clamming in my grub. Does this happen every time? Probably not. Does it happen frequently? Yep.

[Taltarzac725]

When I was a young man I worked in more than one restaurant and one thing I learned is to NEVER send food back to the kitchen. You would be astounded to see what happens to your food.
If I'm unhappy with my meal I'll inform the manager but that's as far as it goes. I really don't want anyone clamming in my grub. Does this happen every time? Probably not. Does it happen frequently? Yep.

See the movie Waiting. It features Ryan Reynolds among others. Waiting*(2005) - Rotten Tomatoes (https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/waiting/)

I know some waitresses/bartenders who come to Doggie Doo Run Run once in a while. I make sure I am friendly just in case I end up going to one of their restaurants. Actually they seem quite nice but you never know.

[Aloha1]

Kapalua Bay, one of the greatest hotels, too bad its gone-now time shares & condos- we were there in 81

Aloha 1--you must have had some great times there

Oh, yes. The Kapalua Wine and Seafood Festival each year at Kapalua Bay was a must do. We miss that place and Maui but reality set in as to the state of health care in the Islands (think 3rd world). That and Grandkids multiplying led us to consider moving to the same time zone but NOT the Michigan winters!:laugh:

[Aloha1]

An example is the Michigan lake perch at the Shell station on 466A.

Say WHAT?? Perch?? You talking about the Shell at Colony?
Is it a fried meal or frozen take home filets? Inquiring minds want to know.

[Aloha1]

East, west and tip of the thumb. :)

Bonnie, you know darn well that Port Austin is the "Tip of the Thumb!:laugh:
My family has had property a block off of Lake Huron in P.A. since the 50's. Great times---in the summer! I remember that Memorial Day typical water temp was about 60-61. By Labor Day it was low 70's. Never stopped us from swimming. Now, if it ain't at least 73, I'm not going in.:)

[NYGUY]

Say WHAT?? Perch?? You talking about the Shell at Colony?
Is it a fried meal or frozen take home filets? Inquiring minds want to know.

You might not have known, their is a restaurant the the Shell Station at Colony called Burger Station (open 11;00 to 6:00).. It has nothing to do with the Shell Station, they just lease the space.

[Mikiem]

My wife and I and many of our friends have been there many times and love it. Best Sunday Bloody Mary bar in The Villages.

[alancusa]

I'm on the the opinion a lot of the posters on this thread must really like Chef Boyardee

Actually I'd prefer Chef Boyardee to Ricciardis. Agree that the place sucks and serves "dreck", in case you know what that is. I'm sure you do as you've previously used the term.

[graciegirl]

I'm accustomed to good Italian food by way of marriage and living near NYC. Ricciardi's isn't the best, but it ain't that bad.

I agree. I don't have your advantage but I really like Italian food and we enjoy Ricciardi's and find it not expensive. Works for us.

Another poster used the word Drech which means **** in German. That person must be an accomplished gourmet. Or a picky eater.

[Taltarzac725]

I agree. I don't have your advantage but I really like Italian food and we enjoy Ricciardi's and find it not expensive. Works for us.

Another poster used the word Drech which means **** in German. That person must be an accomplished gourmet. Or a picky eater.

Is that not dreck?

[Roaddog53]

See the movie Waiting. It features Ryan Reynolds among others. Waiting*(2005) - Rotten Tomatoes (https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/waiting/)

I know some waitresses/bartenders who come to Doggie Doo Run Run once in a while. I make sure I am friendly just in case I end up going to one of their restaurants. Actually they seem quite nice but you never know.

Funny I was reading these posts and thought about the same movie! What a laugh. Some of the posters here even remind us of the woman who was the snob in the movie and told the waiter to take it back. Not a good result. Maybe more will do it here and tell them to take it back since as a poster said, it does happen. I for one don't tell a server to take back a meal after seeing that movie.

[dbussone]

I agree. I don't have your advantage but I really like Italian food and we enjoy Ricciardi's and find it not expensive. Works for us.



Another poster used the word Drech which means **** in German. That person must be an accomplished gourmet. Or a picky eater.



Or just a fan of drech. Bless his little heart.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Aloha1]

You might not have known, their is a restaurant the the Shell Station at Colony called Burger Station (open 11;00 to 6:00).. It has nothing to do with the Shell Station, they just lease the space.

Thank you for the heads up!