Save Room for the Almond Tiramisu at Mike’s Ristorante

A fixture of Norwalk's dining scene for more than four decades, the family-owned Mike's Ristorante serves authentic southern Italian fare in an intimate, bistro-like space. Only a handful of tables are scattered about the eatery's yellow-walled dining room, which, coupled with Mike's Ristorante's local acclaim, makes a reservation here essential.

Still, regular diners insist a meal at Mike's is worth the effort, even if you have to call several times to get a table. Dishes center around high quality ingredients, many of which have been imported straight from Italy. That means you'll likely taste the difference top-cut meats and freshly made pasta make in dishes like the Capellini al Pesto, the Fusilli alla Sorrentino, and the Pollo con Marsala e Funghi. Leave room for dessert: Frequent diners report that the almond tiramisu is out of this world.

Mike's Ristorante is open for dinner Tuesdays through Sundays. The restaurant serves lunch Tuesdays through Fridays.

Mike's Ristorante
50 Main Street
Norwalk, CT 06851
(203) 838-3256
mikesristorantect.com
www.yelp.com/biz/mikes-ristorante-norwalk

Jordan’s Restaurant and Pizza: Classic Italian and Greek Fare

Italian food with a Greek twist – that’s what you’ll find at Jordan’s Restaurant and Pizza

Located on Westport Ave. near Andrew’s Field, Jordan’s is a family restaurant serving terrific pizza and entrees. Come for lunch or dinner — you'll be welcomed with open arms. For an appetizer, you can go for an Italian option like calamari, or Greek with a slice of spinach pie or stuffed grape leaves. One of the favorites is the Pella Salad, served in a bread bowl with Nick’s famous dressing. Then, the sky’s the limit! Gourmet pizzas, Greek specialties, sandwiches, wraps, pastas, seafood, baked chicken and veal dishes – Jordan’s has it all at a price that’s right. Bring your friends, bring you family or get an order for take-out.

Jordan’s Restaurant and Pizza
369 Westport Ave
Norwalk, CT 06851
(203) 846-9557
http://www.yelp.com/biz/jordans-restaurant-and-pizza-norwalk-2

Valencia Luncheria: Latin American Cuisine in Norwalk

The authentic tastes of Latin America are ready for you at Valencia Luncheria. While “Luncheria” is in its name, the Valencia serves terrific cuisine for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Come in to the Valencia Luncheria in the morning to start your day right, with traditional breakfast platters or Arepas, a Venezuelan corn cake, filled with traditional eggs, cheese and meat, or with interesting flavors like mango and brie. Check out the lunch specials, with soups, salads and platters, or go for a traditional burrito, empanada or sandwich. And it just gets better at dinner, with excellent small plates and large entrees so good; you’ll think that you’re dining in Venezuela! Try the fresh ceviche, always a big hit with the regulars. The atmosphere and service will make you want to come back.

Valencia Luncheria
164 Main St
Norwalk, CT 06851
(203) 846-8009
http://www.yelp.com/biz/valencia-luncheria-norwalk

Papaya Thai: Luscious Thai Cuisine

The fragrant, flavorful cuisine of Thailand served in an upscale setting is what’s up at Papaya Thai. Ordering some small plates to share at the table is always a great way to start off your meal. Options include Chicken Satay Skewers with peanut sauce, Barbeque Pork Chop with sweet & spicy chili dip, Crispy Tofu with peanuts, Poa Pia – crispy mini spring rolls with vegetables, and Crispy Crab Wontons served with mango sauce. A Dumpling Sampler with three types of steamed dumplings is also a tasty option. Entrees feature traditional favorites like Pad Thai and Panang Curry, along with Golden Coconut Shrimp, Royal Beef & Chicken, Nutty Tofu & Veggies and Massaman Curry Stew. Beer, wine and cocktails are served.

Papaya Thai
24 Marshall Street
Norwalk, CT 06854
(203) 866-8424
http://www.yelp.com/biz/papaya-thai-and-asian-bbq-norwalk

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