Donatell’a Ristorante Brings Authentic Italian to Harrington Park

With all apologies to the late great Rosemary Clooney, there’s a new Italian mama in town who’s got us singing “Mambo, Italiano” (or  “Mangia, Italiano,” to be more precise). Her name? Donatella, and her namesake ristorante just celebrated its grand opening in Harrington Park. 

Located in the recently vacated historic Tappan Road spot that housed dearly departed Dino’s, Donatella’s is a fine addition to the area’s rapidly growing fine-dining scene. We had the privilege of being one of the first tables to break bread in the totally revamped space (one of Harrington Park’s oldest properties), and the experience was full of Old World authenticity.   

First off, the dining room couldn’t be more inviting. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring in plenty of light, showcasing handsome tables dressed in crisp white, marbled walls that pay homage to classic Roman architecture, and a fully stocked designated bar area, a great place to grab a drink if you arrive early or didn’t make a rezzie (which we strongly recommended you do). The vibe? Beyond friendly, with every staff member going above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. It’s no coincidence Donatella’s is located inside a converted house—you feel at home when you’re here. 

Then, of course, there’s the bigger reason we’re calling this place a winner: the food! The menu here is jam-packed with Italian classics in every category, from apps like Crispy Calamari Fritti ($11) and Shrimp Cocktail ($15) to soups and insalata to chicken, veal, steak, and seafood specialties. So many, in fact, that we were already planning our next several visits just to be able to try them all. 

This time out, we ordered the very light but yummy Pollo E’Broccoli Rapa (fresh-cut chicken breast grilled over broccoli rabe, garlic and oil; $19), the heartier Pollo E’Tradizionale ($19), which gives you the choice of fresh chicken breast with picata or Parmagiano or Franchaise or marsala (we chose the latter), and what turned out to be our favorite dish: Rigatoni con Melanzane (rigatoni with roasted eggplant, fresh-chopped Roman-style garlic and tomatoes, fresh basil, and homemade mozzarella; $17)

After that, it was time to dip into Donatella’s ocean of seafood specialties. We opted to share orders of Scampi Conriso (jumbo shrimp with sautéed garlic, white wine and lemon sauce over arborio rice; $33) and the exceptional Pappardelle E’Scalopi (homemade pappardelle with mushroom cups, seared fresh scallops in white wine, and a touch of cream sauce ($24). Both were super-fresh and exceptional. This place is so delish, ev’rybody come copisha!