Mamma Melina Ristorante
Seattle, WA 98105
Phone: (206) 632-4333
- Price:
- $
- Cross Street:
- NE Forty Seventh Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Italian Food 2005
- Hours:
- Daily 11:30am-2pm, 4:30pm-10pm
Message from Mamma Melina Ristorante
2005 Best of Citysearch - Italian
- Italian food since 1989
- Real Italian family owned
- Extensive selection of wines
Paid advertisement by Mamma Melina Ristorante.
Editorial Review for Mamma Melina Ristorante – by Citysearch Editors
The Scene
Matriarch of a clan of Seattle restauranteurs, Melina Varchetta runs this University District spot with a homemaker's attention to detail. Gracious rather than formidable, she sits up front near the piano player and next to her husband, Pasquale, greeting patrons and deferentially making the rounds to make certain everyone is happy. Everything is pretty, neat and orderly: green- and pink-rimmed dinner plates, yellow napkins arranged in wine glasses, and flower boxes outside.
The Food
Preparation rises to the same standard of thoughtful precision. Lamb shank, braised in white wine and aromatic vegetables, arrives tender and succulent, accompanied by a puree of its braising base and a sensational risotto cake. Grilled eggplant, stuffed with mozzarella and prosciutto, makes a toothsome appetizer. A thick, textured soup of roasted garlic, potato and mushroom manifests Mamma's appreciation of simple, focused flavor.
Photo by Chris Daniel
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Know Before You GoAround the corner from the Seven Gables Theatre, Mamma Melina's draws moviegoers before and after shows.
The ExtrasEnjoy live piano music on Tuesday nights and Friday through Sunday. Requests are often honored.
ParkingFinding a spot in the U-District can be tricky, especially with two movie theaters within walking distance. Make sure to read all street signs to avoid a ticket. North of 50th Street is a good bet.
User Reviews for Mamma Melina Ristorante
07/02/2008 Posted by Martin1212
My girlfriend and I had heard about Mamma Melina from friends over the years and gratefully decided to dine there last Friday. We didnt have a reservation, and waited probably 10 minutes or so, but we would of waited alot longer if we knew how tasty the food was going to be from the beggining The bread was so fresh, and HOT! My girlfriend ordered a penne dish with eggplant and smoked mozzarella, with a light tomato sauce. I cant remember the name, but the texture of the eggplant was perfect, and the smokiness of the cheese was a great compliment to the pasta dish. I had ordered the Veal Marsala myself. I've ordered this at other restaurants so I thought I knew what to expect. Not even close!!! This was THE BEST MARSALA SAUCE I HAVE EVER TASTED. I havent eaten yet today so my mouth is watering just writing about it. Anyway, the veal was tender as it should be, and the sauce was, well, I cant expain it to much in detail, but its my favorite now. All in all, we had a great experience. Great ambiance, food, wine, and service, with affordable prices to along with it. We will be back!
Pros: Food, wine list, service, ambience
Cons: None so far
06/22/2008 Posted by mcbare
Given the low menu prices, I'm always expecting the food to be mediocre at best. Instead, it's flavorful with good texture and I always leave wanting more. Last time we went, we were seated next to a famous local Seattle glass artist. Not a place I'd think of for celebrity-watching - I considered it a testament to how good Melina's food is!
Pros: Food, service
Cons: Parking
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful
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