Restaurant Review: Authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Newbridge
Il Ponte Nuovo (aptly meaning The New Bridge) is located in the heart of Newbridge on George's Street and its slogan is 'where classic Italian meets classic traditional'.
For many people, Il Ponte Nuovo is already their favourite authentic Italian cuisine restaurant in the town - and indeed in Kildare.
And popular among many regulars are its Italian meatballs as well as its varied pizza menu.
The immediate impression arriving through the front doors is the very warm and welcoming ambience.
Atmosphere
It's early on a Saturday evening and the atmosphere is buzzing with the restaurant already filling up with diners.
Overall, the venue creates a casual and comfortable environment which puts you immediately at ease.
The array of aromas coming from the open kitchen area also adds to the occasion and helps to stimulate the taste buds.
As you peruse the Menu, a very extensive wine list is available to diners and you may also like to sample a refreshing Peroni beer to continue the Italian theme.
Starters
The mouth-watering starters come in large portions from the waiting staff, who were at all times effortlessly friendly and very efficient.
My dining companion chose the Cozze - a spicy dish of mussels, shallots and garlic in a saffron cream sauce served with toasted bread.
Main Course
For the Mains, I selected the traditional Italian dish Cannelloni Ricotta which was topped with béchamel and parmesan cheese. A perfect choice!
My partner decided on Medaglioni Di Manzo - Fillet of Beef Medallions - (below) which came with baby tomatoes, courgettes, potatoes, asparagus and spinach with a hot peppercorn sauce on the side.
By the way, the restaurant serves 100% traceable Irish beef and tries to source all produce from local providers.
Dessert
The Cheese Cake on the Dessert Menu came in flavours such as Nutella and Ferrero Rocher - a must for anybody with a sweet tooth.
Christmas
The restaurant is currently taking bookings for Christmas parties or festive get-togethers for families or groups of pals.
The Early Bird Menu is fantastic value all evening from Monday to Friday and until 6.45pm on Saturday and Sunday.
The Early Bird features a 2 Course Meal for €15 and a 3 Course Meal for €18.
The family-friendly restaurant also has an extensive Kids' Menu with €8.50 for 1 course and €10.50 for 2 courses.
Overall, for authentic Italian cuisine and excellent value for your hard-earned money, Il Ponte Nuovo cannot be beaten!
To book, contact 045 486369 or follow IL PONTE NUOVO on Facebook.