Molto Bene

Earlier this week I had the pleasure of attending another phenomenal dinner event hosted by Seated. If you don't know about Seated already, check them out here and download the app today to get rewards for dining out in your favorite places! Plus you get to discover new restaurants. Use my promo code DOCTORCOLE to get even more rewards. All you have to do is make a reservation through the app and upload a photo of your receipt. Within 24 to 48 hours, you'll receive a code for credit ($10 to $50) to places like Amazon, Starbucks, Lyft, and more. I've made almost $200 eating out this past summer!

The event took place at a beautiful venue nestled at the corner of 11th and Pine St called Ristorante Aroma. The intimate setting provided a chance for us to get to know not only the other guests but also the owner, Susan, and the chef (originally from just outside of Naples), Tony, as well as the rest of the staff.

Each meal transported me back to my study abroad days of fresh cheese and homemade pasta (plus great wine!). The whole experience lived up to the restaurant's promise of offering a culinary tour of Italy.

The Arancini (rice balls filled with bolognese sauce and mozzarella cheese) was served first. It reminded me of my favorite delicacy from my time in Ascoli Piceno: Olive All'ascalona (fried olives stuffed with meat and cheese). I mentioned this to Susan thinking I'd never have the opportunity to eat them again. I was not only surprised Susan knew the antipasti and had previously served it at the restaurant but more than touched when she offered to make it again for me despite the specialty no longer being on the menu.

After what felt like a ten-course meal and thinking we had no room for more, the desserts came out. Of course, everyone has a separate stomach for dessert. It's difficult to choose a favorite because my taste buds were overwhelmed with how delicious everything was but for anyone visiting, I highly recommend the Strawberry Pocket.

Thank you again to Seated and Ristorante Aroma for hosting us all. I loved every second and am still full, a week later.