First look: Cafe Toscano

Café Toscano in Aurora is part of the family of restaurants from long-time Cleveland restaurateur Carl Quagliata, who also owns the landmark Giovanni’s and the recently resurrected Tuscany, both in Beachwood.

Food: Simple, traditional Italian comfort food using a minimal amount of ingredients is the focus of head chef Chris Licht.

We started off with hot, crusty ciabatta bread served with a wonderfully addicting combination of olive oil atop a mound of parmesan and other Italian herbs. An order of wedding soup proves to be a good idea as it’s one of the better wedding soups we’ve sampled.

The menu is a nice representation of classic Italian favorites including pizza, 13 different pastas and a nice selection of chicken and veal entrées all served with a house salad and side of pasta. There’s even a steak and fish option if you’re so inclined.

We tried the veal piccata; scallopini with artichokes and capers in a lemon butter sauce, and the pizza prosciutto with roasted marinara, mozzarella and prosciutto.

The piccatta, which was encouraged by the server as a house specialty, exceeded expectations. The paper-thin, tender veal bursts with the right amount of citrus and capers galore. It was a wonderfully satisfying dish that could go up against any version in town.

Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for the pizza. While the sauce had merit, both the prosciutto and crust were overcooked and almost too dry, like a cracker.

Libations: A decent-sized wine list with plenty of glass options along with a full bar and a handful of beer are available.

Décor: While it’s hard to imagine from the outside, the dining room is surprisingly beautiful. The contemporary space features a dry-stacked rock wall, open kitchen, warm woods and a floor-to-ceiling glass wine closet that makes up one wall of the intimate room.

Service: Service at Café Toscano is beyond welcoming, accommodating and prompt. The staff works in unison to take care of guests from the moment you’re greeted upon entrance.  

Insider tip: Look for wine dinners to take place every other month beginning in February. The dinners will focus on one wine maker and offer set courses to complement that particular region and varietal. Additionally, look for a first seating special from 4-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday featuring three courses for $15.95.

Bottom line: In a city not necessarily flowing with decent restaurant options, Café Toscano proves to be a wise choice for surrounding areas.