RISTORANTE ABRUZZI | charleston, wv
- WineCheeseScallops
- Oct 21, 2024
- 4 min read
This past weekend, we had the absolute pleasure of dining at Ristorante Abruzzi with our dear friends, Lee and Kiera. If you’ve never been, let us set the scene: this gem of a restaurant is nestled inside the baseball field facilities in downtown Charleston, WV. Walking into Abruzzi, you’re greeted with high, open-concept ceilings and a spacious room that houses a full bar, plenty of seating, and even a view into part of the kitchen. The vibe is upscale yet relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a cozy dinner with friends.
We were lucky enough to be seated by one of the large windows that overlook the baseball field, giving us a beautiful view as we caught up with Lee and Kiera. Our server was so patient with us because we were too busy laughing and chatting to even look at the menu! Eventually, we did manage to settle on our choices, and we knew we were in for a treat.
The baseball field in downtown Charleston, WV, is known as GoMart Ballpark, formerly Appalachian Power Park. This iconic stadium has been a key part of the city's culture since its opening in 2005. Home to the Charleston Dirty Birds, a team in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, the ballpark has brought generations of fans together to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. The stadium is designed with a nod to classic ballparks, featuring a cozy, intimate atmosphere that allows spectators to feel close to the action. It's the perfect blend of modern amenities and a nostalgic vibe that truly captures the spirit of baseball.
The location of GoMart Ballpark in downtown Charleston is significant because it plays a major role in revitalizing the area, attracting both locals and visitors to this vibrant part of the city. It’s more than just a baseball field; it’s a community hub that hosts events, concerts, and now some of the best dining experiences in town, like Ristorante Abruzzi. Being right in the heart of the city, it offers views of the surrounding urban landscape, making it a unique and exciting destination for sports enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
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Appetizers to Start | RISTORANTE ABRUZZI charleston, wv
For starters, we indulged in the Arancini—hand-breaded Hernshaw Farms mushroom risotto balls stuffed with gooey mozzarella. Each bite was a creamy explosion of flavor, served with a luscious parmesan cream, basil pesto, and topped with shaved parmesan. The crispy exterior of the arancini contrasted perfectly with the soft, cheesy interior, making this appetizer a definite crowd-pleaser!
We also ordered the Short Rib Crostini, which was a masterpiece on a plate. The red wine-braised short rib was melt-in-your-mouth tender, perched atop crispy polenta that provided just the right amount of crunch. The dish was elevated even further by the tomato demi-glace and the arugula, which added a fresh, peppery bite, all finished with a delicate gremolata foam. This dish was a beautiful balance of textures and flavors!
Entrees to Savor
When it came time for the main courses, we went all in! Lee had the Spaghetti & Meatballs, and wow, was it a classic done right. The Abruzzi slow-cooked tomato sauce had layers of rich, tangy flavor, and the house-made beef and pork meatballs were tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned.
Tara opted for the Salmon alla Gnocchi, and it was a dish that could easily steal the show. The seared salmon was cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin that gave way to tender, flaky fish. Paired with brown butter carrot gnocchi, asparagus, crispy sage, and a drizzle of maple gastrique, every bite was a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and buttery goodness.
Josh’s choice was the Braised Short Rib, which was slow-cooked in red wine until it was fork-tender and packed with deep, hearty flavors. It came with creamy parmesan polenta, roasted carrots, and a rich tomato demi-glace, finished off with a sprinkle of gremolata for a hint of citrusy freshness. The balance of flavors in this dish was incredible, and the polenta was so smooth and velvety.
Kiera went with the special of the day: Lambrusco Chicken. This dish featured tender chicken served with parmesan garlic risotto that was beyond creamy, and the roasted carrots were perfectly caramelized. But what really set this dish apart were the braised grapes and figs paired with a carrot top chimichurri—it was an unexpected burst of sweetness and herbaceous flavors that had us all in awe.
The evening was filled with delicious food, laughter, and stories that had us all in stitches—seriously, our cheeks hurt from smiling so much! Ristorante Abruzzi delivered on every level, from the authentic Italian flavors to the warm, inviting atmosphere. We all agreed that it’s a fantastic spot for a night out with friends or a special date night.
If you're ever in Charleston, make sure to check out Ristorante Abruzzi for a dining experience that combines upscale cuisine with a relaxed vibe. We left with full bellies, happy hearts, and memories of a night we won’t soon forget! 🍝🍷
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