An A-Z visitors guide to Milwaukee Wisconsin. Sponsored by Key Magazine Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/43223
Key RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH Carini's La Conca D'Oro Authentic Sicilian delicacies in a friendly atmosphere AUTHENTIC CUISINE has made Carini's La Conca D'Oro a favorite for locals and visitors alike. When we've entertained well-traveled guests such as the retired editor-in-chief of National Geographic, this family-owned restaurant has earned rave reviews. Celebrating 15 years in business, the restaurant at 3468 N. Oakland Ave. is offering a number of spe- cials. It's conveniently located on Milwaukee's east side, close to downtown and within walking distance of UW–Milwaukee. Carini's has it all – authentic cuisine, friendly service and diverse dining room options. Banquet facilities are available to serve up to 75, and Carini's is open seven days a week. The front dining areas double as an indoor-outdoor patio. Floor to ceiling windows, ceiling fans, hand- painted murals and custom ceramic tile create a sea- side atmosphere. You'll feel like you are dining at a sidewalk cafe in Sicily – but at the same time "weath- er proof!" Beyond those rooms, there's an expanded bar area. The bar is a great place to relax, savor a drink or glass of wine, chat with friends or scan the menu. The din- ing room adjacent to the front of the restaurant has a special occasion feel. Here, the faux-painted walls capture the essence of aged terra cotta and brick, a decor that brings to mind a centuries-old villa. In the back dining room, antique fixtures, treasured family 58 photos, and faux-painted walls create a warm yet elegant setting. Carini's interior makes the perfect backdrop for the best part of any visit to Carini's–the cuisine created by Chef-owner Peter Carini. Carini came to the U.S. in 1966 from Porticello, a small fishing village near Palermo. There, he learned from his mother that good Italian food is prepared by taste, touch and instinct. Peter also brought to America a great knowledge of seafood. Dishes are individually prepared using the freshest foods and the finest ingredients. The chef insists on a "scratch kitchen," with no com- mercially made mixes or shortcuts. The restaurant's name means "Shell of Gold." There are 13 appetizers to choose from, and the 21 pasta dishes include the classics and originals cre- ated by Peter. A myriad of seafood is featured at Carini's. Choose from dishes created with the freshest available squid, clams, shrimp, scallops, mussels, swordfish, cod, tuna or salmon. Carini's caters to beef-lovers as well, and those who have a taste for chicken or veal. Visit Carini's for lunch, and you can select from the lunch menu or treat yourself to one of the best buf- fets in Milwaukee. This is a special favorite of the vegetarians we know, since the eggplant spidieni is a buffet staple.