Tag: linguine

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Red Clam Sauce at La Cucina Italiana

Red Clam Sauce at La Cucina Italiana on Hamilton Street in Worcester, MA

Red Clam Sauce at La Cucina Italiana on Hamilton Street in Worcester, MA

In English, the meaning of La Cucina is “the kitchen” and this is exactly the feeling you get when you step into this family-run establishment. You feel like you’re in a warm and homey Italian kitchen. The specials were on a very large blackboard visible to every seat in the dining area.

On this night, of course, I had to try the Red Clam Sauce with Linguine because it’s one of my favorite Italian dishes.

Before I ordered my dish, I asked the server if the clams were fresh. She indicated that they were canned clams. I hesitated. Then I thought, “A good chef should be able to transform these canned clams into something fresh–like it’s from the ocean.” I certainly was not disappointed with the preparation. Though there could have been a bit more clams, they were tender and the pasta was cooked perfectly. The Italian red sauce was fresh and authentic. A few shakes of grated cheese and red pepper flakes really made the sauce scrumptious.

Our servers were very informative and attentive. They were continuously aware of our needs at our table. Also, our delightful servers seemed to be right there, at the right time, every time!

I had a very pleasant experience at La Cucina Italiana. You can feel the passion they have for satisfying their diners. I especially enjoyed the family atmosphere. The prices are great and the portions are large, like most Italian family-style dishes. My leftovers were packed up and I enjoyed my Red Clam Sauce with Linguine all over again the next day!

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Bolognese from Livia’s Dish in Worcester

Bolognese from Livia's Dish on Main Street in Worcester, MA

Bolognese from Livia's Dish on Main Street in Worcester, MA

Livia’s Dish created both a comfortable warm environment and an exceptional dining experience.

While entering we were greeted promptly by the waitstaff who were extremely personable and attentive. Our group was taken to our large reserved table in the main dining area with windows looking out onto the street. There were a few smaller and more intimate tables near the bar towards the back of the restaurant. It seemed suitable for many different dining occasions from small business lunches to a date night setting.

There was a medium-size drink menu and I was able to find my beloved Moscato wine. The menu appeared to be italian in nature with a Mediterranean-like appeal. There were also a few comfort foods listed on the menu which offered dining options for different taste preferences. I had a difficult time deciding on one menu item but I eventually choose the Bolognese.

The presentation of the meal was an impressive, large portioned linguine pasta with their own meat sauce with a rich balsamic reduction drizzle and topped with parmesan cheese. It looked and smelled phenomenal. I watched as others around me mouth’s watered just looking at.

The taste was not a disappointment as the balsamic reduction added a kick to the otherwise simple dish. As a small woman, I was not able to finish the large portion but took some home to eat the next day, This, to me, was an added bonus.

For dessert, I tried one of their Cannoli’s. The cream cheese-like filling was light but satisfying. The chocolate drizzle gave the sweetness I enjoy after a meal. I left satisfied with a full stomach and leftovers in hand. I would dine here again.