Avanti Restaurant & Caterer   

2728 E Thomas Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85016
602-956-0900
www.avanti-az.com

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After almost three decades of the familiar black and chrome, art-deco elegance that became its trademark, Avanti underwent a facelift and almost gave its loyal patrons a heart attack. But the flowering red swatches and other changes were only cosmetic. The kitchen still provides the same award-winning fine dining experience that has been drawing locals and businesspeople since the mid-'70s. The waiters still wear tuxedos and the atmosphere remains intimate. Tony Bennett croons on the music system and Italian-born owners Benito Mellino and Angelo Livi still personally welcome you at the door. You find no trendy experiments on the menu, just classic continental and Italian dishes that have won Gourmet Magazine's Top Tables Award and several "Best of Phoenix" citations. The pastas remain a highlight -- always made fresh daily with a deft touch. Homemade potato gnocchi is a longtime standout with lighter-than-air dumplings. Among seafood items, plump mussels are a trademark. Unlike many of the newer, pricier restaurants, Avanti's dinner entrees come with soup or salad. Favorites include a delicate veal piccata osso buco and huge, meaty scampi and scallops, prepared in a creamy garlic sauce and served on a bed of pasta. The place is famous for its many fresh-made desserts, especially the creme brulee.