I was getting my weekly Sunday bagel at Mr. J’s a couple weekends ago when I was stopped in my tracks by beautiful signage boasting the opening of a new restaurant: Agrodolce.
Myself and fellow Spooner, Shannon, decided to stop in for a late lunch this past weekend. There were too many amazing things to say about Agrodolce–from the decor to the food to the service–so we decided to break it down for ya’ll.
1. The Wine List
Photo by Shannon Daly
Yes, it was 2 p.m. on a Saturday, but to Shannon and I, that was prime wine-drinking hour. We figured out that we were both pinot grigio drinkers (according to this quiz), so we indulged.
Agrodolce boasts an extensive wine selection with wine exclusively from Italy. Better yet, it’s super affordable. Even better still, they sell wines by the bottle so you can grab a bottle on your way out. Score.
2. The Calamari
Photo courtesy of foodnetwork.com
Oh my lawwwwwd. Nothing at Agrodolce is deep-fried which is friendly for your waist-line but that doesn’t mean that the calamari isn’t effing incredible. The calamari was fresh and not at all chewy while the coating was light. You actually got a great bite instead of a completely over-fried breading. Score.
3. It’s Afforable
Photo by Shannon Daly
For the most part, appetizers fell under the $10 mark while entreés barely exceed $14. Meanwhile, house wines are only $6 a glass. Okay, okay okayyy.
4. The Portions
Photo by Shannon Daly
They are damn huge. Yes, Shannon and I went in on some appetizers but we had leftovers for dayz. Gourmet pizza made for a perfect midnight snack. If you’re unlike us and are actually trying to control your portions, peep these hacks.
5. The Pizza
Photo by Gilly Dukoff
Speaking of gourmet pizza, woah. They had an actual pizza oven built into their wall that was shipped from the pizza country itself (aka, Italy).
Shannon and I are both from Jersey and we both decided that the ‘Margarita’ pizza was absolutely Jersey-girl approved. They also have a ton of other authentic toppings if that’s what you’re into.
6. The Service
Photo courtesy of breezejmu.org
So attentive. So friendly. So excited to wait on us. The restaurant wasn’t too busy (given that it was 2 p.m.) and our waiter never failed to have our wine glasses filled. However, we made sure not to annoy him too much.
7. The Atmosphere
Photo by Shannon Daly
Kudos to whoever decorated Agrodolce because it is a beaut. From exposed stone walls to the gorgeous wine bar that you see upon entering, it is straight out of Italy. Bellissimo.
8. The Chicken Marsala
Photo by Gilly Dukoff
I’m generally impartial to Chicken Marsala but Shannon has dubbed herself the Queen of it so she was quick to place an order. I was like, damn, this is great. Shannon took it one step further and deemed it the “best chicken marsala in Harrisonburg.” I’d take her word for it.
9. Agrodolce Makes Their Own Pasta
Photo courtesy of Agrodolce
It’s made in-house and trust me, you can tell. It is perfectly cooked and fresh as heck. Here’s an easy-peasy homemade pasta sauce to make at home.
10. They’re Great for Large Parties
Photo by Shannon Daly
In addition to their normal seating area, they have an additional room that is perfect for a big group. From graduation lunches with the ‘rents to birthday celebrations with the homiez, Agrodolce will hook you up.
11. The Outdoor Seating
Photo by Shannon Daly
Shannon and I stared longingly at the outdoor patio that teased us on the other side of the window. We’ll definitely be heading back to sit out there as the weather gets nicer (so close and yet so far).
12. The Bruschetta
Photo by Shannon Daly
MA GAWD. Probably my favorite part of the whole experience. Crunchy crust on the bread. Soft innards. Fresh tomato and cheese. Deliciously sweet Balsamic drizzled on the side. Need I say more? K, cool.
13. The Daily Specials
Photo by Shannon Daly
Carrot soup one day, Rigatoni Matriciana the next. And they’re all delicious.