NERO DI SEPPIA: TWO SISTERS SERVING UP ITALIAN FOOD IN THE CENTER OF PADUA
The Cost -$27
The Atmosphere – Right near the heart of downtown Padua, Nero di Seppia is a cute, welcoming restaurant that always features a rotating art exhibit along its pretty stone wall. The restaurant is owned by sisters Eugenia and Patrizia who have done a great job making sure diners feel comfortable in their contemporary space.
Padua, or Padova in Italian, is a small, charming city just west of Venice. Famous for many things, including being listed twice on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, its gorgeous statue lined Prato della Valle, 14th century frescoes, and being the academic residence of the great Galileo for nearly twenty years, Padua is definitely worth a stop on your way to or from its more world famous neighbor. In the center of the city, just a short walk from the Basilica Sant’Antonio di Padova, you’ll find Nero di Seppia where I chose to have lunch on a lovely afternoon.
The Order – La Parmigiana di Melanzane and Omaggio alla Luxardo.
The Great – I bypassed the appetizers and went straight to a favorite dish of mine, La Parmigiana di Melanzane (Eggplant Parmigiana) and I’m glad I did. I loved the texture and flavors of the eggplant and melted burrata and the lovely, light tomato sauce. If that wasn’t enough, the dish was topped with delicious “sails of Grana Padano” which looked like snowflakes made of cheese, a welcomed addition. I thought I was finished with my meal after the main course but when I looked at the dessert menu, I noticed a dessert with a three-line, tasty-sounding description. The Omaggio alla Luxardo, an homage to the 200th anniversary of the iconic Italian liqueur and spirit producer, is made with Maraschino liqueur soaked, tater-tot shaped dough balls with pistachio custard, ricotta cream and whipped cream with chopped pistachios. The combination is unique, creative and very Italian and I enjoyed every alcohol-heavy bite.
The Verdict –Nero di Seppia is a wonderful local restaurant that showcases amazing Italian dishes with a modern and creative touch. Eugenia and Patrizia do a great job not only satisfying their customers but also supporting the art community which gives you even more of a reason to visit their lovely restaurant.