Sunday, May 31, 2009

My Favorite Restaurant

 Armando's Restaurant. 3807 Belmont Ave., Youngstown (Liberty) OH, 44505. For takeout, reservations and  information call  330-759-8989.  Several years ago I stumbled into Armando's Restaurant after a big art opening in Youngstown. That night was something of a turning point for me, as I was introduced to a very kind couple, Armando and Nerina LaCostro who taught me the importance of fine food and true Sicilian culture. Always the gracious host, they took time from their busy schedule to chat with me after dinner, and to make sure my dining experience was excellent. I have eaten at Armando's hundreds of times and I can honestly say that each time was wonderful and that they always maintain a standard of excellence that I have not found in other local restaurants.

The atmosphere at Armando's is family oriented, and one can always count on seeing Communion, Baptismal and birthday parties there. With it's nationwide reputation and it's proximity to Interstate 80, one can occaisionally catch a glimpse of a celebrity as well.

Armando's is known for home-made pasta and sauces.  My favorite dishes are the home-made ravioli and tortelini in home-made Olivata sauce. At least once a week I have the home-made spaghetti with Armando's famous red sauce. The menu is large, as are the portions. If you haven't been to Youngstown's best kept dining secret, don't wait any longer!

 

The Sauce!

The statement from the label:

 In 1972 Armando and his wife Nerina immigrated to the United States from Malvagna, Sicily, Italy. His ambitions and goals are what brought him to this great country. Over 20 years ago, he established himself by opening his own restaurant, specializing in Italian cuisine. Because of his great success in the restaurant business, he was given the opportunity to distribute his special recipe of pasta sauce so that others out of the area could enjoy it as well.

Armando's sauce is his own personal recipe that he brought with him from Sicily, Italy. Throughout the years in the restaurant business, he has devoted his time to passionately perfecting this truly authentic recipe. He is proud to be able to offer this real taste of Sicily, Italy at both his restaurant and selected grocers.

The Excellent Choice- What makes Armando's sauce excellent?

It is a combination of technique, ingredients, and hours of preparation. In Armando's kitchen, each jar is made with the finest ingredients and simmered to perfection. Armando uses 100% natural ingredients, extra virgin olive oil without cholesterol, and no preservatives. It is slowly simmered for many hours to steam out the fatty acids produced by tomatoes. This allows anyone with a health condition to enjoy this delicious sauce. Armando produces all his sauce by hand, giving each jar his personal seal of approval. To Armando, quality is more important than quantity when it comes to making his homemade sauce. He dedicates his personal time and attention to making sure each jar is consistent and perfect. Enjoy the pleasure of eating this truly authentic sauce and see why no other sauce can compare.

We appreciate all our loyal customers and we thank you for your desire for us to market our sauce. We hope you enjoy it at home as you have in our restaurant.  Grazie per avere preferito la nostra salsa!

Available at Belmont Ave. Giant Eagle.