Clams Gone Wild at Romano’s Macaroni Grill

OK, here we are, Father’s Day weekend 2012. What’s a dad to do but find a local place to eat on Father’s Day -- not! My thought was to eat out Saturday night instead of messing with the typical long lines on Sunday. 

Driving through the mall parking lot in Temecula, I decided on Romano’s Macaroni Grill. I was looking for a wide selection of pasta, and I knew I could count on the joint to serve up a good martini. 

The hostess was great and I was seated within minutes.  The place was hopping, but typical for a Saturday night restaurant experience in Temecula.  Within a couple of minutes, I was greeted by a very friendly server that made me feel welcome within seconds.  I ordered a Grey Goose martini, straight up, naughty with one olive. 

For starters I ordered the lobster-stuffed clams.  I typically do not order seafood unless I’m at a seafood shop, but these clams went wild on my palate!  These babies were stuffed with pancetta and garlic breadcrumbs, topped of with red pepper aioli.  Oh ya baby! This appetizer is a winner.  I only hope they keep them on the menu long enough for me to come back and enjoy them again and again. 

When you visit this place, I recommend the not green but blue salad.  Bibb & Blue I mean.  Super fresh bibb leaves with pickled red onions, blue cheese, pancetta, walnuts, and buttermilk dressing. Big enough for two. Don’t even think about it, just do it! 

The very busy server checked in multiple times, which I found unusual as I noticed he had multiple tables; but that did not stop him from giving “cut-above” service.  This guy was very well rounded with all the menu items.  It was obvious this gentleman was a pro!  I also noticed the manager on duty was also putting on a good show.  Being a former restaurateur, I know it’s a challenge to keep pushing on when the place is packed.  It was refreshing to see a restaurant manager checking with guests and making sure everyone was happy.  I found out later, the manager on duty was named Bobby.  By the way this guy was acting, you would have thought the sign outside read Bobby’s Macaroni Grill. 

Finishing off Martini #2, my piping hot Chicken Scaloppine with artichokes, mushrooms, prosciutto, lemon butter, capellini piled high has arrived.  The no knife needed chicken was tender, and the combination off all the ingredients was superb.  I ordered fresh garlic to this dish.  I was curious to see how they would spin this.  The dish contained big chunks of fresh caramelized garlic.  I cleaned the plate.  Winner winner chicken dinner!!! 

OK, what’s a great dinner without dessert right?  I recommend the Warm Berry Torta. Zabaglione, pistachios, served with raspberry sauce.  Texture reminded me of a bread pudding.  Nice change up at an Italian restaurant. 

So next time you’re driving through the mall parking lot or not, try this place.  Want the great service I got?  Ask for Mike Reider, I know I will. 

Cheers! 

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Romano’s Macaroni Grill

41221 Margarita Rd 
Temecula, California 92591
951-296-0700 (Curbside Service Available)

www.macaronigrill.com