Italy's taste invasion

For years Italian food to most Americans meant Southern-style red sauce, meatballs, and spaghetti.

Now there's been an invasion from Northern Italy as diners become more adventurous and crave different tastes. Some restaurants pride themselves on the fact that they don't serve Americanized Italian dishes, choosing instead to send their chefs to study in Italy, in order to serve truly authentic cuisine. Whether from the North or the South, Italian food is a hit.

From bread baskets, full of farinata, crostini, and grissini; to hearty soups and appetizers like zuppa di grano duro and vongole al forno con pancetta; to satisfying entrees, orecchiette con salmone and asparagi alla salsa verde; through to the creamy, rich desserts, featuring tiramisu, gelato, and cannolis; and after-dinner liqueurs, such as anisette and grappa served with espresso; patrons will be gratified Italian-style.

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