La Grotta's downstairs location gives it a cosy and comfortable atmosphere. The wine cellar tucked off to the side looks like a romantic place to dine - we were seated in the main dining room which is a little bright for a romantic feel, but very comfortable. The service was prompt and friendly. We started with an appetizer of calamari, the lightly fried rings were tender, and enough that the three of us just got a taste. Our dinners were great. My husband had the soft shell crabs special, which was wonderful - the biggest softshells I've ever seen, and fried perfectly. I had dinner envy, but can't complain -my shrimp and polenta was rich, with amazing shrimp. My only complaint - the artichoke served in the sauce was a little crunchy - being undercooked it didn't have much of an artichoke flavor. Our companion's steak was perfect - he was used to not having steaks correctly cooked to his taste and was very pleased with the presentation. We splurged for the tiramisu and the gelato - both were incredible - I'm not sure which I'd recommend more. We didn't lick the plates, but I'm not sure the server believed us. We'll put this on our list of recommends -and we'll need to go back - we had Italian and none of us had pasta!
Pros: Wonderful food - what more do you want?
Cons: None by me.
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