Montesano’s

In a city where there are many restaurant chains to choose from, Montesano’s is a Las Vegas original where their motto is “Where love has a taste.” Montesano’s is a family-owned Italian restaurant operated by two brothers, Steve and Sammy Montesano.

This restaurant features an assortment of some of the best homemade Italian food, from cannolis to lasagna. The pasta is authentic and their Rice Ball Parmigiano will make you feel like you are in Little Italy in New York.

I have eaten there quite often, and I am usually greeted with a hug by Toni Ann Montesano, the sister of Sammy and Steve, who always provides a warm slice of New York spice and hospitality. The ambiance of the restaurant is family. The wait staff is extremely engaging and personable, and if you eat there twice, they will remember you and make you feel like you are at home.

This restaurant is not fast food, everything here is prepared fresh and even the salads look and taste like love and tenderness was felt during its preparation.

The house salad is prepared with sun-dried tomatoes, almonds and homemade dressing. Try the shrimp diablo, which features fresh shrimp, spicy tomato sauce over perfectly-prepared linguini or, on occasion. Garlic is in heavy supply here, garlic knots, shrimp scampi, it is the essential Italian ingredient and here and it is always fresh and tasty.

Some favorite Italian dishes include Pasta Bolognese, Fettuccini Alfredo, Shrimp Parmigiano, Cheese Tortellini with Pesto Sauce and Homemade Cheese Ravioli, just to mention a my top picks.

Another Montessano’s specialty is the pastries. There are crispy cannoli shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese filling and dipped in chocolate chips or homemade Tiramisu. If anyone hasn’t tried this dish, it is lady fingers lightly dipped in espresso and layered with imported Mascarpone Cream and dusted with bittersweet cocoa (an Italian classic).

While you are eating, say “hello” to Steve. He takes time away from the kitchen to greet guests, sit at the table and ask “Howyadoin’?,” just like any New York transplant might. He has a great smile and warm heart and his restaurant reflects that as well as each dish served.

During Columbus Day on Monday, October 8, 2012 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Montesano’s will be having their Montesano’s Columbus Day Fundraiser. This event will bring the community together to raise funds for Three Square and Children’s Miracle Network. The big moment of the event will be to witness Montesano’s reveal the “Largest Lasagna in Las Vegas”!

There will be face painting, a bounce house, giveaways and live entertainment. Admission is free with a suggested donation of $20, which includes lasagna, a drink, salad, dessert and even a T-shirt.

Proceeds from donations will be presented to Children’s Miracle Network and all non-perishable food donations collected for Three Square.

Montesano’s is less than five miles from the South Point Hotel and is well worth the cab fare or a quick drive.

They are located at the Eastern Crossing Shopping Center, 9905 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89183 or call (702) 870-3287 for directions. They are open Monday through Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Feel free to check out their Web site at Montesanos.com.

-Roger Reed