Like most fine dining restaurants, Sammy’s menu consists of a wide variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts. Two things, however, separate Sammy’s from most other restaurants in the area. First, they offer a great variety of specials that change from night to night and second, if your want an Italian specialty that’s not on the menu, ask your server and, if he can, Sammy will make it for you.
Brenda and I started our meal with a Portobello mushroom and roasted red pepper appetizer from the specials list. Sauteed in balsamic vinegar and garlic, this appetizer just burst with flavor. For her entree, Brenda ordered the Veal Parmesan from the regular menu. The portion size was just right and the veal was so tender you could cut it with a fork. She really enjoyed it with the White Zinfandel she brought from our wine rack. I went back to the specials list for the Steak Pizziola to have with my Cabernet Sauvignon. The large rib-eye was cooked to a perfect medium rare and the sauce had just a touch of sweetness to it that I really liked. We topped our meal off with Sammy’s homemade Creme de Carmel. The portion was plenty big enough for the two of us and the consistency and flavor were just perfect. When all was said and done, our check came to a somewhat pricey $83.00 but I felt it was worth the money.
If I had one criticism of Sammy’s it would be that we felt a bit rushed. Our salads came about two minutes after our appetizer and at no time during our meal was there any down time to enjoy our wine and conversation. I finally had to tell the server to give us 10 minutes before we ordered dessert so we could rest and relax. In the grand scheme of things this was a minor issue and I can enthusiastically recommend Sammy’s Authentic to anyone who likes fine Italian dining and want’s to bring their own wine.
Business was booming at Sammy’s last night so I recommend you call ahead at 717-221-0192 for reservations. I hope you pack your wine carrier and visit Sammy’s Authentic Italian soon. When you do, please tell them that The Pennsylvania Wanderer sent you.
Dear PA Wanderer,
If you’re ever in Philadelphia, another great resource to find BYO restaurants is http://www.gobyo.com.
– Roman
Looks like a great resource Roman. Thanks for letting my readers and me know about it.