Quick Dish: Mora Italian

The 7th Street restaurant scene gained another gem this week, and Food Network fans are going to enjoy having access to Chef Scott Conant’s fabulous fare at the new Mora Italian. The menu has been set with seven categories, and it can be a bit difficult to decide just where to start. Here are my recommendations from several categories to consider on your first few visits:
Bread Cart: Just say yes! The stromboli with thin sliced salame and artichoke bomba is delicious.
For the Table: The foie gras & chicken liver pate is delicious and served with a buttery cippolini agro dolce.
Antipasti: Do not miss the polenta with mushrooms and the grilled octopus. I tried to find out the magic to this velvety, creamy polenta — but no luck.
Pasta for the Soul: One word — gnudi. These pillows of spinach and ricotta “in the nude” are perfectly with a concentrated tomato sauce.
Pizza Napoletana: For a spin on a classic, try the Mora margherita with burrata and blistered crust thanks to a brush of olive oil.
Oh, and the bar is stocked full of fun, playful cocktails — remember to try the Rose Snowcone this summer when the 100-degree-plus temps kick in!
Happy Dining!
— Andrea Tyler Evans
Publisher, Frontdoors Media
Photo Courtesy of Mora Italian. For restaurant hours and menu, visit www.moraitalian.com.