Michael Bulkley
This review is actually old but just found it in my saved folder. This was based on our first experience some years ago but we keep going back and the sentiment remains the same so I thought I would post it.
My wife and I ate here two weeks ago (2018) and had one of the best restaurant experiences in a while here in CT. We were seated by a friendly hostess and then greeted by our waiter whose name I wish I remembered as he was one of the best waiters we have had. Shortly thereafter the sommelier came, and again I wish I remembered his name too. We did not intend to purchase a bottle of wine but were willing to hear his recommendations. He took our tastes into consideration and recommended a bottle which was reasonably priced and promised that we would not pay if we did not like it. It was an Arneis varietal and we LOVED it and were glad we followed his suggestion. The food was wonderful, especially the halibut with black kale, the burrata with 100 tomatoes, and the bread pudding. We cannot wait to save up enough to return. We had two appetizers, two entrees, to cups of coffee, one dessert and a bottle of wine. The total with 20% tip came to about 180.00. Well worth it though!
… moreCt Ct
We are truly blessed to find Il Palio. An authentic experience. We have eaten here several times and each time is better than the last. A comfortable, enjoyable restaurant to have a conversation in without yelling. The staff, food, ambiance and wine made for unforgettable dinners. Thank you for doing what you do and doing it so well.
… moreLeah Radzimirski
Last night we celebrated my parents 50th anniversary and both of their 70th birthdays with a surprise party in the beautiful room downstairs. I CAN NOT SAY ENOUGH GREAT THINGS ABOUT IT!!! The staff was incredible. Liz was wonderful to work with regarding logistics. Sue the bartender was so much fun! All of our quests LOVED her. Dannie was so helpful and accommodating. The adorable hostess that lead us downstairs was so fun and invested in the surprise she even recorded it on her phone. The food was fantastic and the atmosphere was beautiful! Last night was such a magical night!
… moreJeff Keith
Great food, awesome service! This was the best dining experience we had while visiting NYC and Connecticut!
… moreceleste burnett
We’re baaaack! We loooove Il Palio ❤️ It was our 29th anniversary and what better way to celebrate this day that God saw fit to unute us as one… than with food that always hits(tastes great), drinks that always leave a wonderful impression, and a wonderful staff with great hospitality, and care. If you can… try this lovely establishment. Like ourselves, I’m sure that you will keep IL Palio as one of your all time favorites
… moreFood of CT
After hearing such great things about Il Palio, my fiancé and I visited for our Valentine’s Day dinner last year (a very delayed review but with Valentine’s coming up I was reminded to post this)! The restaurant is absolutely stunning and we were very excited for a special night out. They had a special menu for Valentine’s Day, and we thought the dishes were good, but we were expecting to have been more blown away. We thought our appetizer of the meat and cheese board was overpriced, considering we were only able to have two small pieces of cheese each. The strawberry tiramisu was a fun dessert for the holiday. The staff were very professional and attentive during our time there. We’re curious to come back and try the regular menu when it’s not a holiday.
… moreAndres Ayala
An excellent restaurant. We started off with the charcuterie which was nicely presented and tasted better. For my entree I had the lightly breaded pork chop served over broccoli rabe. It was delicious. The portion is very large, I had enough to bring home. It was spicy and very flavorful. I loved the broccoli range. My girlfriend had the pulpo over hummus, so tasty. Overall the service was excellent and the food was delicious. For dessert we had the almond tort which was delicious, it was served with a pear and gelato.
… moreCultured Wanderer
This exceptional establishment transported us on a culinary odyssey, reminiscent of Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage. From the moment we descended into the enchanting setting on the lower level, we were enveloped in a modern and gorgeously lit ambiance. This environment served as a vivid testament to the essence of Italy, not merely anchored in its historical architecture and design but pulsating vibrantly in its present. Modern Italy, celebrated for its contemporary architecture, exquisite design, fashion, and pioneering spirit, reminds us that the finest Italian restaurants are those that seamlessly blend tradition with modernity.
The service was unparalleled—excellent, knowledgeable, and adaptable. Our server offered a plethora of recommendations, each described with such fervor and detail that it sparked an irresistible urge to sample every item on the menu. It felt as though we were meandering through the Italian countryside, led by a local connoisseur eager to unveil the best of its culinary delights.
Our gastronomic adventure began with an assortment of starters. These initial delights were akin to the opening notes of a classic Italian opera, setting the stage for the magnificence and beauty that was to unfold.
Then, as if transitioning to the second act, the main course gracefully took the spotlight, with the roasted butternut squash filled ravioli making a grand entrance. It was as if a masterful aria had come to life on our plates, with each component contributing to a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures. The unexpected crunch of crumbled amaretti cookies, a dusting of chocolate powder, and a velvety butter and sage sauce created a resonance that exceeded our expectations. The lasagna followed suit, embodying a dish that, much like a meticulously conducted orchestra, escalated to a crescendo of flavors, both comforting and invigorating.
Our culinary journey reached its zenith with a dessert that provided a fitting finale—the ice cream with heavy cream and real pistachio, alongside the Blueberry shortcake. These desserts, simplistic in their assembly yet intricate in taste, were akin to the concluding act of a grand Italian opera, leaving us in a state of enduring satisfaction and wonder.
This establishment stands as a pinnacle of Italian dining, where each dish serenades Italy with love, and every moment spent delves deeper into its heart.
… moreAdam Galazka
Hands down a 5 star experience. We decided to check this place out for a 40th bday celebration for a party of 10. From service, Jose was excellent and knew the menu inside and out, all the way to each appetizer and main course. Everything was delicious, right temperature, and amazing taste. Drinks were also excellent. If We are ever back into town we will come for a visit.
… moreRamiro at CarHavn
So amazing! Even though we’re very selective foodies, il Palio exceeds our expectations every time. We had a big party of 6 for Mother’s Day; and food, service, and atmosphere we’d all flawless. I recommend the mozzarella eggplant for appetizer, and anything with risotto for main course. The Blood Orange Negroni is a must as a cocktail.
… more