All-You-Can-Eat-Gnocchi at Testaccio - Well first off, the deal sounded too good to be true, and for a good reason, because sadly it was. It offered 3 varieties of gnocchi between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. for only $20. Being staunch lovers of gnocchi, this sounded like quite the treat to my companions and me so for the most part, we all ordered this special.
The trouble began from first bite, as the gummy gnocchi stuck to the roofs of our mouths. It was way too starchy and the texture just didn't work with its large size. Instead of being light and fluffy, they were like bite sized hockey pucks that sank to the bottom of your belly. We were bummed.
The other two varieties (gorgonzola sauce and tomato basil) weren't any better in terms of the actual gnocchi, but we did enjoy the sauces. My favorite, was the creamy gorgonzola, which I think was the dolce kind - and it melted beautifully into the gnocchi. I reached for seconds and thirds and even though the actual gnocchi were a pain to get through, the gorgonzola sauce kept me coming back for more.
Unfortunately for Testaccio, in addition to underwhelming with the gnocchi, they also struck out with the Veal Saltimbocca, which Harlan said was inedible because of its "industrial" gravy. I felt sorry for his unsuccessful dish, and he was only mildly satisfied with his second choice, the Con Acchiughe pizza with tomato, anchovies and oregano.
Service and Cost:
Our servers were lovely and attentive, treating us with care and attention, given our large group. They refilled our gnocchi dishes in a timely fashion and made sure to gracefully take care of Harlan's second order.
Costs added up pretty quickly, as we also ordered a glass of wine on top of our gnocchi. We each paid about $35 per person with tax and tip. Call me crazy, but for platefuls of potatoes and sauce, I thought it was a lot.
1.5 Mmmms
Testaccio Ristorante - 47-30 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City NY 11101
718.937.2900
7 Train to Vernon Blvd/Jackson Avenue
http://testacciony.com/
