In a phrase, Gourmet food for a not-quite gourmet price. Amelia's is a small, warm restaurant in Kendall Square. It has an Italian flare, and a nouvelle-cuisine touch. Their seasonal menu and numerous specials offer much to taste and share.
Complimentary bread exceeds expectation. The garlic bread was unique, and it was served with a bean puree that was far more delicious than it sounds.
Tonight, I had a their trout special, topped with cockles cooked with scallions, and a side of snowpeas. I also had a taste of the seafood risotto. If the shrimp weren't overcooked, it would have been perfect.
For dessert, my party of five shared three desserts. Luckily, each of us had an affection for a different dish. For me, the gelato coated in chocolate and embedded with cherries and almonds was perfection. The raspberry and lime tart delighted another. The couple happily shared what remained of the tiramisu.
The wine list was also extensive, with a selection of both International and Italian wines. We started with a dry muscat as an apertif. Moving on to a fruity Pinot Gris with our meal, we ended with the chef's recommendation, an Italian white or bianco as they say in Italy.
I must thoroughly recommend this eating experience. It gave me a sense of joy that I hadn't felt in weeks. Little moans of pleasure escaped all of our lips throughout the meal.
This small one-room restaurant has an intimate feel, with warmly painted walls and dim lighting. It isn't quite as tightly packed as some North End restaurants, but it has that same atmosphere. If you sit at one of its fewer than 15 tables, you are part of a small select group of people that are able to enjoy Amelia's that night.
On-street parking was easily acquirable, and because we were there after six pm, there was no charge to park in the metered spots. There is a Citizen's Bank two storefronts away as a convenience.
Website: http://ameliastrattoria.com