Review: Vela (TV Diner) - Wellesley's Vela is where Executive Chef Frank Santonastaso, is taking a modern treatment, to classic Italian cuisine.
We met our server, at our cozy couch seat, in this basement space, who presented us with a basket of warm focaccia and a salty pesto spread.
A platter of Prince Edward Island mussels, included a spicy tomato broth, along with chopped pepperoni, and garlicky polenta. And next a plate of crisped chicken livers. They were fried on the edges, alongside a crisp puff pastry, with a pancetta and marsala sauce - an absolute savory soiree!
Then we moved on to the sweet and sour duck, a seared and crisped breast and confit leg. Most of the sweet and sour resided in the gooey cranberry ragu, and was accompanied by a tart broccoli rabe - a solid entree choice. However, the entree highlight, was the olive and panko crusted tuna. This thick steak of rare, sweet and salty tuna was seared with a cap of Kalamata olives and Japanese breadcrumbs, with side of pureed cauliflower that was finished with an unusual dried cod stock. And does this kitchen understands risotto!!!! - we found the meaty flavor and creamy texture of the mushroom risotto.... irresistible.
Finally, we enjoyed creamy panna cotta, a classic custard topped with tart raspberry - though what stole our hearts - was the flourless chocolate cake, with vanilla bean ice cream. Forget the the days of dense, cold, flourless chocolate bricks - we resisted asking for a recipe for Vela's rich and creamy wonder.
Value matched quality at Vela; innovative appetizers run between 8 and 12 dollars, pastas either 9 or 16 depending on order size, and entrees between 22 and 33 dollars. For playful twists on classic dishes, Vela earns- The Gold Plate.
Visit Vela Tuesday through Thursday from 5 PM to 9:30, and Friday and Saturday until 10, with brunch served on weekends.
call 781-235-4449 or visit www.velawellesley.com
Location:
Vela
312 Washington Street
Wellesley,
MAUnited States
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