Fusion Cafe, East Longmeadow

Overrated, overdone, over with.

Small plates you'd swear the staff never tasted before putting on the menu. My items were oily, overcooked and the bar staff was too busy socializing to notice my displeasure.

If you like tapas, which I do, drive two hours and go to Dali in Somerville.

Fusion's success points out that the people of Hampden County are so starved for decent restaurants, that they will flock to anything that isn't a Chili's or an Outback in search of something to wake up their pallets.

The owner's definition of "fusion" seems to be "we make a lot of unrelated stuff and shove it all one menu."

Avoid!

Fusion Cafe
53 N Main St
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
(413) 525-0993

Spoleto, East Longmeadow

After many disappointing meals at the Northampton Spoleto, I swore I would never return. The killer was paying $10 for three scallops--not even jumbo scallops--as an appetizer. They served alongside another app, a bowl of undercooked mussels which were unopened. Oh, and I was seated at a table where the floor at my feet was littered with Cheerios left behind by the previous party. Maybe the infant had heard about the food?

Cut to East Longmeadow: My parents were in town--and treating--and big-city caliber fare is hard to find in the East Forest Park area, so I decided to give the two-month old Spoleto a try. It was a weeknight, it was close to home. What the hey.

Well, I have to say, it was a very pleasant surprise! Everyone had wonderful meals! And my folks are pretty darn picky. The bread was hot and chewy. Our side salads were just the right size with crisp veggies and the perfect amount of dressing. The waiter efficient, knowledgeable, and patient. My mom, who loves a good salad, was thrilled with the Traditional Chop Chop because of its size and freshness.

Dad and I both got the seared scallops over striped lobster ravioli in a caramelized fennel cream sauce. Unlike the sad little Northampton appetizer that made me swear that location off, these were big, meaty scallops. There was a pleasing variety of flavors in the dish, and just the right amount of sauce and garnish. It was so rich and filling we were ready to wrap after two scallops and two raviolis, leaving a nice treat for lunch the next day. Prices were pretty average for a mid-upscale place and definitely worth it for the quality.

We also shared a desert and coffee. Best part: The waiter came over and said he was brewing a fresh pot. I always love when someone does that instead of giving you the sludge that has been sitting on the coffee machine since the prep cooks came in at noon. How many times have you had a waiter run by you trying not to make eye contact because there was no coffee made when they took your order and then they have to wait for it to brew.

You know, I hope this place lasts over here in East Longmeadow. We need a good quality place that isn't your typical red sauce and chicken-parm joint. I really think I will be back!

Spoleto East Longmeadow

84 Center Street

East Longmeadow, MA

413-525-0055

Touch of Garlic, Springfield, MA

I've been driving by this place located up the road from The X in Springfield for years. I've watched the stores surrounding the restaurant change from quaint antique shoppes to stores selling sports cards and medical supplies. Always wondering, "Is it any good?"

My sister came to town last month and we decided to give it a try, and to our surprise, it was GREAT! Traditional italian favorites, interesting specials, and great service. The place has a mom & pop feel; not slick or trendy. You get the feeling that real people have put their heart and soul into this restaurant.

My husband claims that his steak dinner was the best beef he has had since he took a trip to Ohio on business twenty years ago. I had the swordfish special which was thick, fresh and meaty. If you're into portions, my sister can tell you how she got three meals out of her chicken parmesan which was covered in a thick, tasty homemade tomato sauce. We also split their Karamisu tiramisu, which was rich and creamy. Best of all, everything was reasonably priced.

We also learned that the place is open for lunch. Can't wait to try it again! It has now passed Villa Napolitana in East Longmeadow as our favorite area Italian eatery.

Thanks, Touch of Garlic, for being a bright spot in Forest Park!

A Touch of Garlic
427 White St.
Springfield, MA 01108
(413) 739-0236

Ya, I'm back...Let the reviews begin...

Greetings!

I took a short haitus after starting this little blog, but now I'm ready to begin! Starting tomorrow, I will be posting my unsolicited opinions about restaurants I have tried. Mostly in New England, some in other locals.

Enjoy!

Chris