A Neighborhood Gem for Made-to-Order Italian: Severina

By Marisa Vaccaro

This month's feature is Severina, a small suburban gem tucked into the middle of a neighborhood in West View. With its charming patio and greenery, you may find yourself wondering what this little neighborhood spot is all about. Step inside, and you'll find a restaurant serving impressive Italian cuisine, with each dish made fresh and to order. There's no rushing the process, and you can taste the difference.

Because Severina is a small restaurant, reservations are definitely recommended. And this is not the place to visit if

you're looking for a quick, in-and-out dinner. Each dish is prepared to order, so be prepared to slow down and enjoy the evening. Waiting isn't always a bad thing when you have great company, especially when the food arrives piping hot, fresh, and thoughtfully prepared.

Hands down, Severina serves my favorite arancini. The outside is perfectly crisp, while the inside has just the right proportion of creamy cheese to perfectly cooked Arborio rice. It's the kind of appetizer where one bite immediately tells you that care went into making it. Other appetizers are just as impressive, including the fresh beets, burrata with pistachios, and the meatballs. I especially appreciate that the meatballs aren't packed with breadcrumbs, allowing the flavor and texture of the meat to really shine.

Several dishes stood out to me during my visit, including the pasta Bolognese, chicken Marsala, and scallop risotto special. What I appreciated most was how each dish had its own distinct flavor profile. The bolognese was elevated by the fresh fennel, while the scallop risotto featured the unexpected combination of fresh Granny Smith apple and microgreens. Those little details are what make a dish memorable.

Severina also has a small bar inside featuring specialty cocktails, spritzes, and a wine menu. One detail my party particularly enjoyed was the selection and pour size of Italian wines by the glass, making it easy to find something to pair with your meal.

Another reason to arrive hungry? The pastry case. Severina offers an impressive selection of freshly made pastries, cakes, cheesecakes, tortes, and gelato. My biggest piece of advice: don't wait until the end of your meal to decide on dessert. If you see something you want, order it when you arrive, or come early. The selection clears out quickly, and you'll want to make sure you get your pick.

One thing to keep in mind is that Severina's intimate size means it may not be the easiest choice for every group. With limited space and accessibility considerations, including limited high-chair availability, it may be better suited for couples, smaller groups, or an adults-only evening.

If you're looking for a small, low-key neighborhood spot where Italian food is made fresh, served hot, and given the time it deserves, Severina is one worth seeking out. It may be tucked away in a quiet West View neighborhood, but the food is anything but ordinary.