That's Amore (other Italian in VA)

Tim J. wrote:
>
> Karen T. wrote:
> >Jon P. wrote:
> >
> >...In a pinch, I've found
> > that Luciano's at Tyson's Corner (yes, in a mall) is not bad.  Owned and run
> > by an Italian family.  Other than that, I've heard you really have to go near
> > and into town for some good Italian.  Personally, I think I trust Baltimore a
> > little more for that.
>
> Two places in the area I know and trust:
>
> Da Domenico's (off 123 near Tysons Corner Mall) has good food, especially
> seafood and veal, and interesting atmosphere.  It's run by two brothers,
> one of whom, Ambrosio, has the voice of an operatic tenor.  He does arias
> in the dining rooms periodically.
>
> Marco Polo, in Vienna, is about thirty years old--and looks it; the decor
> is desparately trapped in the seventies.  The food is excellent, however,
> and well worth a brush with the decor.  My Italian father-in-law claims
> it's among the best veal he's ever eaten.  They also have the best service
> of any place in the area--not only did they know when to come and take our
> orders, they also knew when to leave us alone (a rare quality these
> days).  They catered our wedding recently.

My wife and I really enjoy Dante's in Great Falls, VA.  From the Beltway (495) take Route 7 west, and exit at Colvin Mill Run Road, before you get to Reston.  It's a right exit, just in front of the old mill. Follow that to where it intersects at a crossroads that has a few shops and townhouse-style office buildings (I forget the road).  Dante's is in the big yellow Victorian on the corner.

The food is fantastic and there are only 3-5 tables in each room of the house, which makes it to be a romatic setting.  I've always made reservations, but it's rarely crowded during the week.  You can order half portions of the pasta dishes as an appetizer, and their Tiramisu is excellent.  Dinner for two, with appetizer, main course (or pasta), dessert, wine and tip runs us about $120 or so.

It's not inexpensive and not located really in Tyson's, but it's certainly worth it.  Also, there is outdoor patio seating during the warm spring and summer months.

Cheers,

Chris