A Ca Mia Italian Restaurant

This family-friendly spot offers hearty portions of fresh, Northern Italian fare.

THE DISH

Named after Chef Paolo Nota’s mom, the melt-in-your-mouth Sea Bass Victoria special features sea bass on a bed of sautéed spinach topped with mango, pineapple, and bananas. This combination of fish and fruit is typical of older style Roman dishes and has stood the test of time. Another summer treat you can’t miss is the light and creamy Wild Berry Panna Cotta, a classic Italian dessert that won’t weigh you down after a hearty meal.

FUN FACT

Chef Paolo, who hails from Turin, Italy, has cooked for European presidents and diplomats, and now delights in introducing guests in the Lehigh Valley to hefty portions of his Northern Italian dishes such as Salmon Oscar. One thing he prides himself on—nothing is ever pre-made, even the sauces, which are all made to order with fresh ingredients.   

MUST TRY

One of the chef’s favorite dishes that will likely never leave the menu is the Gnocchi Gargan—a mountain of gnocchi, marinated short ribs, portobello and white mushrooms, and baby carrots sautéed in a port wine demi-glace and tomato sauce with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. It’s one of those meals that tempts “one last bite,” even if you’re about to burst. 

THE VIBE

This cozy, family-friendly restaurant features a dining room with Amish-crafted cherry wood furniture, an open kitchen so you can see (and smell!) all the action, and walls filled with charming old photography from Italy. Typically, things are bustling, so make reservations about a week in advance. And don’t forget to bring your favorite bottle of wine—A Ca Mia is BYOB.