La Vita Gustosa
9 Main St.
East Haddam
860-873-8999
A Full Plate Of Italian Delicacies At La Vita Gustosa
By Amy Ellis
August 21,2008
Searching for delicious Italian food? Then head to the family-owned La Vita Gustosa in the quaint town of East Haddam (across from the Goodspeed Opera House).
We visited on a Friday night at about 6, and we thought for sure we'd never get in without a reservation. But we were welcomed and, although the bar area looked cozy and inviting, we decided to eat in the dining room.
Delicious bread with oil and olives was offered to us as we perused the diverse menu. We decided to skip the appetizers, which range from bruschetta to calamari, and order dinner (to save room for dessert of course).
The particulars: Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. The bar is open later. Closed Mondays.
The vibe: Classy, romantic, casual, warm and inviting. La Vita Gustosa is perfect for a romantic first date or just hanging out with friends after work with a glass of wine at the bar. In the summer you can dine al fresco.
The eats: You can pretty much satisfy any craving here. There are several delicious pasta dishes to choose from, including orecchiette con rabe or the more traditional manicotti. The chicken parmigiana is tasty (the red sauce is fabulous). We haven't tried a fish dish yet, but the next time I visit I may try the sogliole alla florentine: egg-battered fillet of sole, sautéed in a light lemon-butter sauce and served on a bed of spinach. La Vita Gustosa also offers salads, panini sandwiches and pizzas. Here is some important advice: Save room for dessert. The peanut butter pie (deliciously sinful) and the cannoli were the perfect ending to our meal.
The prices: Appetizers range $6.25 to $11.95; the salads are around $10; dinners cost about $12 to $25. Add a salad to your meal for $1.75 (house) or $3 (Caesar). On Tuesdays there are $5 martinis.
The verdict: Absolutely delicious.
Hours: Sun. and Tue.-Thu., 11:30 a.m.- 9 p.m.
Fri.-Sat., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.
Mon., closed.
Bar open later.
