Opened a little more than two years ago, Osteria Mattone remains a welcome addition to the bustling historic Roswell restaurant scene . The cozy eatery makes its residence in a renovated house on Canton Street where it offers delicious Italian cuisine with a focus on Roman fare.
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Dinner here rarely disappoints, as the kitchen consistently serves well-executed dishes crafted from simple ingredients and Mediterranean flavors. To boot, the Italian wine list is a pleasant change from the usual suspects you might find at other Italian spots. Here are four don’t-miss dishes:
Osteria Mattone's velvety, melt-in-your-mouth Agnolotti di Oxo has garnered a reputation as a must-try dish. The braised oxtail and short rib ravioli in buttery jus are succulent and tender little pockets of mouthwatering heaven, with a blend of silky creaminess, rich meaty flavor and textures that complement each other.
Can't decide whether you're in the mood for seafood or pasta? Combine the two by ordering the Tagliolini di Mare – a seafood pasta boasting lobster, lump crab and shrimp. The seafood isstunningly fresh and cooked with care (no rubbery bites to be found) while the pasta is pleasantly al dente. The dish manages to be hearty without being heavy, and remains a trusty standby.
Those in search of a lighter option can't go wrong with the Branzino, a grilled, wood-finished Mediterranean sea bass served with roasted fennel and capers. The slightly sweet aromatic fennel notes play well with the salty tang of the capers. Bright fresh herbs and a touch of lemon add vibrancy to the tender fish for a simple yet delectable dish.
Save room for dessert and order the Budino Caramellato, a salted caramel bread pudding nestled in chocolate sauce and topped with gelato. A balanced combination of salty and sweet, the Budino will leave everyone at your table fighting over who gets the last bite, and maybe even who gets to lick the plate.
Osteria Mattone, 1095 Canton St., Roswell. 678-878-3378, osteriamattone.com
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