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Palermo Ristorante Italiano
Category: Restaurants Italian Italian [Edit]
9632 Emerald Oaks DriveElk Grove, CA 95624
(916) 686-1582
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 4 pm - 10 pm
Fri-Sat 4 pm - 11 pm
Sun 4 pm - 9 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Classy, Upscale, Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
80 reviews for Palermo Ristorante Italiano
Review Highlights
"It's a family owned and run italian ristorante."
(in 15 reviews)
"The crab ravioli is consistently delicious."
(in 13 reviews)
"...bucco which was the veal served with polenta and spinach."
(in 3 reviews)
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80 reviews in English
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Review from Lisa Z.
Elk Grove, CA
2/2/2012 1 Check-in Here
Since moving to Elk Grove from the bay area, we have been on a mission to find really good italian restaurants. My husband is really picky about Italian food because he is from Chicago. This restaurant hit a home run.
First time at this restaurant and here we go with a review:
Restaurant is clean, great atmosphere, service is wonderful and helpful. It didn't seem to be busy but we are here on a Wednesday night, might have to try on dinner on a Friday or Saturday evening to see if service will be the same.
Complimentary bruschetta was delightfully refreshing, every element of the dish was perfectly balanced. 5 stars
Appetizer, we had the caprese, the mozzarella was light, tomatoes were juicy and fresh tasting, well-balanced olive oil and olives were awesome. I could have had another plate for myself and not share with my hubby. LOL
Zuppe (soup) is a traditional minestrone. My husband loved it because it reminded him of his mom's cooking. As for me, it needed more garlic and flavor...I had to add pepper and cheese and more pepper. All the veggies were cooked perfectly that it was buttery and melted in your mouth...just needed more spices.
Main dishes we ordered were delicious. We had the Linguini with tomato sauce and Linguini Puttanesca. Both linguini dishes were cooked perfectly, not soggy. Sauces were perfectly seasoned. I am not a drowning in sauce kind of girl but this sauce was perfectly portioned to my linguini. I could have had more.
We had no room for dessert so I guess we are going to have to visit again...
Till next time... -
Review from Fred H.
Sacramento, CA
2/1/2012
I don't like to give bad reviews for family-owned restaurants, because I identify with owners who have obviously invested so much time and money. But, I can't see why The Bee's review of this restaurant was so laudatory. Besides, the place was packed, so my so-so review is not going to hurt them too badly. Still, I think you can find tastier Italian food at lower prices.
I was very impressed with the complimentary bruschetta they brought be while waiting for my food. The fresh tomato, fresh basil and nice olive oil made it a joy to eat, and I appreciated that the bread was not as dry and crumbly (and messy to eat) as most bruschetta. And, it was free!
For appetizers, we had their stuffed eggplant ($9, with spinach, ricotta cheese, and ham) and their eggplant parmigiana ($8). I gave both dishes 5 stars.
Our next course, though, was a disappointing minestrone. The zucchini and cabbage gave it a nice buttery quality, but there was little taste (other than the grated cheese, black pepper and red crushed pepper I added). I wish they added tomato and more garlic. (I said "more garlic," but I'm not sure if they used any at all.)
This was followed by a disappointing lasagna. Lasagna, which is considered a "special" and is therefore not on the regular menu, costs $19 and is HUGE. (I'd guess 4" x 6" and 3" high.) Adding to its impressive appearance was about 6 layers of meat, 6 layers of pasta, plus cheese. All it lacked was taste. Again, I had to add a lot of pepper and yearned for garlic. I don't want to give the impression that I'm a garlic freak. I never even got to the Garlic Shack. But, it does taste good and is integral to Italian cuisine.
We also tried the chicken pansotti ($15) which was pleasant. It had a rich, mild flavor, but nothing interesting. I think if I ever went back again, I'd make a meal out of the two eggplant appetizers and I'd try the sauteed spinach. -
Review from T P.
Elk Grove, CA
1/29/2012
Wow I can't believe all of the 4 and 5 star reviews of this place. We went based on that. This place was horrible. By far the worst meal we have had in a very long time. First off the service is slow, slow slow.
I had the crab ravioli. The ravioli was doughy and drowned in cream and had absolutely no flavor at all. I'm not one to salt my food either. I asked to trade with my husband because I could not eat it. His dish was no better. The Ceasar salad was nothing but romaine chopped up with 3 croutons.
We will not go back. No wonder he is not in Palo Alto any more. People in PA would not put up with that kind of service or low quality food! Very expensive too! For the price you can go to BIba or Spataro and have an outstanding meal and service! -
Review from Alex G.
West Sacramento, CA
12/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
First time I'm here with a group of adults and two children. It's been one hour and a half that I've been here and I've received an appetizer, bread, and water. Order was taken 45 minutes ago. Don't waste your time. Waiters are passive-aggressive personified.
I would rate this zero stars if I could.
Mind you- food isn't bad but just barely worth price paid. Three stars minus two for quality of service rendered. -
Review from Rev. M.
Elk Grove, CA
11/16/2011
I do not know why I waited so long to try this wonderful Italian Restaurant - it was better than expected! Great tasting food, good atmosphere, friendly and helpful staff.
They allow you time to finish your meal and to chat without feeling like they want you to leave and vacate the table for the next customers. It was very comfortable and over-all enjoyable experience.
I took two friends from out of state there and they loved the place. I felt good at having taken them there.
The prices are not cheap but it is worth it. I was there on a Tuesday night and there was a good sized crowd but a few open tables. Th menu presents a good selection of choices even for a vegetarian like myself.
I highly recommend this for anyone - families or those on a romantic date. You will feel welcomed and leave satisfied. There is not a better place to eat in all of Elk Grove! -
Review from Keri Y.
Elk Grove, CA
11/7/2011 5 photos
I've been meaning to try this place out for a while now and finally went this weekend with my family. When we first walked in we were asked if we had a reservation, which we didn't, but we didn't have to wait for a table. Luckily we got there when we did though because once we got seated the restaurant filled up pretty fast. It was a bit louder than I had anticipated, since online it says the noise level is quiet, but there were quite a few big groups there which may not be normal, so I didn't mind it.
We were pleasantly surprised to receive a complimentary plate of bruschetta, which we were actually looking for on the menu to order as an appetizer. It was delicious and fresh tasting, and brought to our table by an older Italian woman, who I can only assume was one of the owners. We were also brought a warm basket of bread, filled with sour dough and some kind of herb bread; the herb bread was very very yummy.
For dinner we ordered:
-the crab ravioli: very delicious and fresh tasting, not fishy at all.
-the lasagna: big enough for 2 meals/ people, but slightly tasted like something was missing (maybe more garlic?), still pretty good though.
-the tortellini with meat sauce: one of the specials for the night and very satisfying
-the duck (which came with orange marmalade sauce, asparagus and mashed potatoes): another special for the night, pretty pricey for the portion but the duck was moist and the orange marmalade was a delicious pairing.
Overall, the food was very good. But I only gave 4 stars because none of the waiters seemed to be cheerful, they were all very straight faced and didn't seem very friendly. -
Review from Natalie H.
Sacramento, CA
12/18/2011
Stopped by this place on the way home from the bay after reading all the yelp reviews. Fell in love instantly with the fact that you can get some traditional Italian cooking in the area. Sorry Sacramento, but you are seriously lacking in down home, like my nonna used to make Italian food. How hard is it to make spaghetti and meatballs? The bruschetta was excellent as was the caesar salad that I ordered. Boyfriend had the cioppino and it was divine! The tiramisu was scrumptious and guess what? BOTH owners talked to us......bitches!
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Review from George K.
Sacramento, CA
8/26/2011
This place has Italy written all over it. If you want "Americanized" Italian, go find a Strings or an Olive Garden. If you want REAL Italian, this is the place.
I had the sea bass and scallops over linguine and the only way it could have been better is if the pasta was fresh. It was still the best I have had since Italy. -
Review from Steven M.
Sacramento, CA
10/10/2011
Took the trek down from Sac (20 minutes) and found this gem of an Italian restaurant in a strip mail across from Denny's. This is the real McCoy, or should I say, the real Italiano. From the moment you are greeted with a "Buona sera" to the espresso to top off the meal, this is just the kind of restaurant you'd find in an Italian section of New York or New Jersey. It's not Biba's, but it's well above what you typically find in these parts (this coming from someone who grew up in Jersey).
To be sure, it ain't cheap. Two of us, with a decent bottle of Primotivo and soup/salad for appetizers, dropped $120. But it the portions were ample, well flavored, and cooked to near perfection (I had a halibut special with olives and organic mushrooms w/ sides of risotto and spinach as well as a deelish minestrone; my friend had a special butternut squash tortellini and a Sicilian salad).
We were the last ones out the door, but there was no hurry. In fact, turns out the family is from Taranto, Italy, in the southeast -- not Sicily. Very nice people who turn out a solid meal.Comment from Giovanni T. of Palermo Ristorante Italiano 10/12/2011
Thank you for your kind comments, we are glad you enjoyed… More » -
Review from Jenny W.
6/17/2011
4.5 stars! This is a great family owned restaurant that is tucked away on Elk Grove Blvd. I came here late one night with my BF to find a live jazz band playing in the bar room. How classy! The owner gave both of us high-fives and then we chose our table. Everyone that worked here was super friendly and so genuinely nice, it was unbelievable. We started with minestrone soup, which I really enjoyed. I find that other restaurants make it too tomatoey and heavy, but this one was really hearty without being too-filling. Does that make sense? We also got two kinds of bread with butter, and the owner brought out some bruschetta for us to try. The tomatoes weren't as flavorful as some other ones I've had, but hey it was on the house!
I ordered the linguine mondello, which was pasta with swordfish, mussels and clams in a light wine and garlic sauce. It was good, but I did think swordfish cut into cubes is a shame (it was a tad dry). I love the tomatoes and capers, which added some flavor to the pasta. I don't know if it was worth $17, though. My bf ordered a specialty of the week, which was basically a pork loin roll filled with prosciutto and cheeses and served with polenta and spinach and a tomato sauce.
It's a bit of a splurge for a poor post-grad, but the service and ambiance is well worth it! -
Review from Jocelyn M.
Sacramento, CA
9/21/2011
Always a great spot for a quiet family dinner.
The crab ravioli is consistently delicious. The crab always tastes really fresh and never fishy. The sauces are well prepared and flavorful. The lasagna is so large it should have it's own zip code.
The service at times can be slow, so if you absolutely HAVE to be somewhere... go to one of the many overcooked chain restaurants that Elk Grove in teeming with. But if you're out to enjoy a relaxing dinner at a mellow pace, go to Palermo. The staff is friendly and the owner always comes around to make sure you enjoyed your evening. -
Review from Brett N.
Rancho Cordova, CA
8/1/2011
I used to go in the 90's when i worked on University Avenue in Palo Alto. I had no idea it was the same people and they just moved.
The lasagna requires re-inforcing the table legs. It lands on the table the same way a 747 lands at SFO. THUD! It's big, and it's awesome!
The girlfriend went a little more sophisticated with a buttery sauce over chicken and my little taste was enough to get me to go back again soon!
We didn't have reservations, that seemed to make the owner a little mad, but overall very friendly folks, staff, a rather odd wine collection - but the cabernet was very tasty and reasonable.
Really good food, the way I remember in downtown PA, wonderful people serving food and appear to really like what they do.
Who'd have known what you can find in Elk Grove! After seeing chain after chain after chain, it's nice to see the tables full for mom and pop, and them enjoying the success they've created from their own two hands.
The other thing I liked was that it was a very quiet and peaceful environment. The only thing ruining it that night was a brief temper tantrum by an unruly child. (Please mom, take the kid outside, it's unfair to ruin everyone else's dinner because you are afraid to discipline your child).
I won't hold it against the restaurant! I was fat dumb and happy when I left! :) -
Review from Michael H.
Wilton, CA
Updated - 5/31/2011
I wish I could go here more often, it is kinda expensive afterall. But it was mothers day so I went with my mom. A really loud table was next to us and for some reason they put all of their kids on one end of the table and their parents were literally having shouting conversations from the other end...That made it hard to hold a conversation with our own table. But I can't really fault the restaurant there...
I tried their halibut dish this time, it was absolutely perfect. Buttery and cooked to perfection so that it literally melted in my mouth.
It came with cooked spinach, I'm not usually into this, but it had a flavorful garlicky taste so I ate most of it.
It was also the first time I had risotto, I absolutely loved it...
Oh and dessert! I had a cannoli for the first time, yum! My mom had this wine glass full of whipped cream and strawberries(and a hint of some kind of alcohol).1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/29/2010
Not only the best Italian food in Elk grove, the best I've ever had, whether that's a sign that this… Read more »
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Review from sarah b.
3/20/2011
This place is amazing! I was introduced to Palermo's by a friend who has been coming here for years with her family. Every time I come Giovani, the owner, greets me with wonderful hellos, smiles, and hugs! His wife is also a wonderful lady that you will get the same greeting from.
The food is as authentic as it gets. The menu always looks foreign to me with those fancy Italian words hahaha, but if you need to just ask they will be happy to answer your questions. I've had their linguine prawn liverosa (sp?) which is my favorite! Last night my boyfriend ordered the duck special and I was seriously jealous I didn't order that. My friend always seems to order halibut special which changes frequently but is always delicious. I will admit the prices are a little high, but it's a dinner well worth the price.
Also they have "party" nights once a month. They shut down the restaurant and turn it into a little club. It's a lot of fun, there's a great crowd that always shows up, and the bar is wonderful!
So if you're ever in Elk Grove stop on by this place. Oh and it is a little hidden, just remember it's behind Taco Bell, which I don't recommend. -
Review from Paul M.
El Dorado Hills, CA
8/22/2011
Food ranged from above average to superb, the service however, was sorely lacking.
The chicken parmigiana was fantastic, juicy and as tasty as any chicken I have ever had. The sauces from various dishes were fantastic with the exception of the average nutmeg riddled alfredo. The stuffed artichoke was excellent and sides like potato wedges and spinich went well with the chicken dish. The meal started with three complimentary pre-appetizers that included small bruschetta, fresh baked italian rolls, and delicious tomato backed bread.
All things unfortunately, must come to an end, just as the good part of this review ends now. As I stated previously, the service was atrocious in about every way possible. It is a good thing we were served several complimentary appetizers as we had to wait a terribly long time for our food. This wasn't noticed by our party for the most part as we were engaged in conversation and enjoying the pre-appetizers. Later we were mistreated to 20 minutes of no service including only ice in our glasses for most of the meal. The tension only mounted as we wished to leave but were not provided with our checks or even the option of desert.
In the end we enjoyed the food but were hurt by the service. We left a decent tip and smiled as the owner shook our hands on the way out. -
Review from Bela M.
Elk Grove, CA
12/1/2011
I don't know how to explain it, but I prefer less kisses, less singing, but better food.
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Review from Jolie V.
Orangevale, CA
8/6/2011
Three couples went on a Thursday evening arriving 5:15. We waited for 1 hour before being served. The server explained he was busy prepping the lettuce for the salads. .. At that , two diners were served while 4 people waited. When we arrived there were 2 tables with guests, By the time we were served, the place was full. The food was less than ordinary. The clams and linguine, ordered with the "hot and spicy sauce, came with a white wine "sauce" and
a lot of sand. The pasta undercooked .. Had we been alone, we would have walked out before an hour had passed. Either the kitchen was understaffed and unprepared or the server bungled the orders. In any event, none in this party will return Woefully disappointed after reading a glowing review in the Bee. JV -
Review from Cecilia L.
Elk Grove, CA
2/14/2011
I dined here about a year ago, so specifics regarding the food are a bit blurry. What I do remember is that I wasn't wowed in the least. My cousin and I ordered two separate pasta dishes. They came out lukewarm and not very flavorful. The prices were high ($17 and up) for what we were served.
She also contracted food poisoning that night, presumably from her dinner. She definitely won't be going back, and neither will I, food poisoning or not.
Definitely nothing to write home about... unless you're asking Mom to take care of you during your illness. -
Review from Justin G.
San Diego, CA
12/28/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I was impressed and loved the Pesto Bread!!
After reading previous reviews I had to try this place out as I love Italian food.
As I entered Palermo's I was greeted by an Italian lady who would be my server. Every time she talked to me she had a beautiful smile on her face and was very helpful. Her genuine personality, and good looks, made for a great experience at the little restaurant. I sat in the bar area and watched the football game which was on one of two LCD TVs in the bar area. There is also a dining area with no TVs which provides more of a true dinning experience, if that's what you are looking for. This place is not to big overall, so I could see how you might need reservations on a weekend night.
My dinner choice was the Fettuccine Alfredo, which tasted great. My server also brought out bread which was amazing (as stated above, the Pesto Bread smelled and tasted great!!). I believe this is a family restaurant, and I also believe I was greeted by the owners throughout my dinner. They were very polite and helpful. It truly felt like a little Italian family restaurant from Italy.
Overall I was very pleased with the place and would definitely go back again to try something else on the menu. -
Review from Marisa D.
Elk Grove, CA
12/4/2011
Food quality and service are going downhill. Well I tried this place about a year ago and it was fantastic, so fantastic that I told everyone I know about the place, had dreams about their tasty sauces, and even hosted my birthday at this place.
SERVICE: A year later I came back last night, on a Saturday night to a disappointment. The older male host seemed unhappy. I think the grind of the endless hours and hard economy are finally getting him down and his mood seemed down and he wasn't his cheery self. He was a tad short and not as fun and warm as my previous visits. He needs to work on his do you have reservations question and response as to not make people feel bad when they don't have reseravation. The restaurant was half empty but he wanted to seat us in the middle of the room, which felt awkward and it wasn't received well when we asked for another table. Whatever we were looking forward to our dinner so we let the whole thing go. The waitress was very nice and remembered us from over a year ago. She was warm and pretty attenative, helpful with the menu. There is nothing that I can say about her service, it was spot on and the food was well timed. The ambiance was good. I did get the feeling that the whole restaurant was a little tense and this type of tensions starts from the top down, so I would recommend that the owner work on the mood of the restaurant from the top down.
FOOD: The food quality is going downhill though. I was the most disappointed in this area. One word can describe the problem: BLANDness has taken over the sauces. Ok I ordered the a chicken filled pasta with a buttery tomato sauce, sounds fantastic, right? Last year it was! It was so good I literally licked the plate with a slice of bread to be sure every last drop was savoured. This year it was so bland I am pretty sure they forgot to use salt and the ratios of butter to sauce and cream was off. It lacked flavor and the pasta sheets tasted very overcooked. Solution: get the old cook back in there, and TASTE the food with a clean spoon, before each dish goes out. It was that bad. I wanted to scream have you tasted this stuff?? Yuck. Then we had ordered a large Linguini with clams special dish called the New Yorker which is not on the menu, but has the potential to be their best dish ever. Its full of clams, muscles, shrimp and fish all over linguini. My sweet heart requested literally asked that it be prepared SPICY and you won't believe it, it was bland too. The waitress even wrote on the ticket S-P-I-C-Y and it also lacked flavor and salt. What were we out of salt tonight?? low on garlic? I am not sure? Someone on a low salt diet back there? And although there was too much sauce on my dish, literally, there was not enough sauce on his dish the New Yorker. There was just a tiny bit and it all seemed to sink to the bottom of the bowl so his noddles seemed even plainer then they were. Please taste the food before you send it out. Before dinner we ordered the artickoke appitizer. It was ok. A few things concerned me though about that dish. Where were all the artichoke leaves?? There was a big huge artichoke, the middle was cut out and a bready / cheese filling was inserted in the middle mixed with parts of the heart. The only thing is there were only like 20 leaves left. I don't think leaves can be used else where, so I was wanting them to bring those back! I savor every leaf when eating an artichoke and sharing a measly 20 leaves with another person is hard to do. It was a hot dish, served in a broth, but the secret was revealed when I go to the middle - the stuffing was cold - so it but have been pre-prepared. A cold stuffing, not appitizing. Oh, also since the waitress could see I wasn't eating the chicken pasta, she offered to bring me another dish, the crab ravolli. It was a tad bit better, not overcooked, but sooo BLAND. Again, where was the salt shaker back there? And the white sauce was a bit thin. Somethings changed in the kitchen, I wish I could put my finger on it..
Overall take away, I am not sure who the cook was before, or if more items are being "pre=cooked or prepared early" but we need to get the old cook back in there to bring the quality back up and someone please be the food taster before the dish goes out because stuff is tasting poorly and this could be detected and corrected for that dish and future dishes with some quality assurance. -
Review from Faye W.
Sacramento, CA
8/8/2011
What a piece of North Beach in Elk Grove!? Grazia a Dio! Within a week of reading the Sac Bee review of this place, we went there for dinner.
I really, really wanted to like this place but was utterly disappointed by the food and the owner's rudeness toward us. I watched him talk to all the other patrons next to us - sat at one table and sang at another. However, he never stopped at our table. He never smiled at us. He actually pointed to our table instead of taking us there. I was so shocked I asked him if it was ready and he just nodded. We really should have walked out at that point. I guess my sister who owns a restaurant and I who have waited tables before were too nice to cause a scene by walking out. Or we really wanted to like this family owned place. Or we were just hungry suckers.
After we sat down, the owner came and took our wine glasses without asking if we wanted to order wine. That was the last he came to our table. Our actual server was ok - not rude but not attentive either. My niece asked for a straw and never got it. Thankfully, the buspersons did a good job of keeping our glasses filled with water. I needed it to wash down the salt and fill my stomach.
We ordered the chicken parmigiana, lasagna special, spicy linguine clams, salmon piccata, and dinner salads. I didn't try the linguine so won't comment on it but my niece didn't finish her dish.
The dinner salad was of mixed greens with a vinaigrette dressing and a dusting of an herbed salt or something. The dressing was really salty and grainy, and left a bitter after taste.
The chicken cutlet of the chicken parmigiana was bland and tasted as if it was reheated after being taken out of the freezer. The roasted potatoes on the plate were overly salted as well. The spinach was fine.
The lasagna was decent (thank goodness because I was hungry), but it came out with dried edges so didn't look appealing.
We had two orders of salmon piccata and had to send one back because it was too fishy smelling. The owner's daughter apologized explaining that they have no control over the fish they ordered. She was nice enough to not charge us for it and offered complimentary desserts which we declined. We just wanted to pay and leave at that point.
Note to the owner: if you had treated us nicer, we might not have sent back that fishy smelling salmon even if we weren't going to eat it. And if you were nicer, we might have given you a second chance because we like to support local family owned operations. I would have gone back with my other sisters, with my in-laws, friends, etc.
Anyhow, not going back ever again. Bleh, hate to waste money ($109) on bad food and rudeness!
If you read the 2 - 3 star ratings, all noted the bland food. A few even noted the same way the owner ignored them. It's horrible but I feel better we weren't that singled out for his rudeness. Sheesh, what consolation. -
Review from Melissa L.
Elk Grove, CA
9/6/2011
You always feel like family at Palermos. The minestrone soup is superb! If I weren't watching the family budget, I would eat here a lot more often.
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Review from Wayne K.
8/3/2011
Palermo has the ol Italian mom/pop family restaurant charm/hospitality that you'd expect when visiting the little Italy restaurants of NY, Boston, and SF. They have great capresse, olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar for your bread, lots of pasta, eggplant, and seafood dishes, and the right blend of tomato, basil, garlic, capers, cheese, wine, etc for the sauces. Palermo is the little Italian place that is good when you want home-style Italian and don't want a Biba's fancy kind of place.
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Review from Becca F.
Sacramento, CA
7/10/2010
Glad I tried Palermo before Biba ;) Both are wonderful if you want REAL Italian food and FABULOUS service, yet each sparkles for different reasons. (FYI - I love how directions from the restaurant were 'pass three fast food places, turn right and make a quick right into the parking lot'.)
You might have cheap & low expectations since P. is set in a strip mall, but it's a pearl in a seabed. The owner warmly greets you, almost like you're family. The interior is casual, but linen napkins, wine glasses and attentive servers suggest more formality.
Tired of caprese? I recommend lupara: roasted peppers and eggplant with garlic, mint, vinegar and olive oil. Use some bread to leave no trace of that saucy mixture on your plate! It will whet your appetite for the main course.
Since I rarely have time to cook risotto and Palermo, Italy is a seaside town, I had to order the risotto frutta di mare. This is the first place where the seafood far exceeded amount of risotto. Other places skimp on the shrimp (not to mention the clams, mussels, scallops and salmon that came with this hearty serving)!
I know you'll feel full before looking at the dessert menu, but the lemon sorbetto will somehow fit in your tummy! It's like a creamy limoncello gelato without the harsh liquor flavor; light and refreshing, it probably aids with digestion.
LOVED OUR SERVER since he tipped us re: a secret special di giorno, a butternut squash ravioli. He was professional, yet amiable -- and attentive without hovering. Best wishes as he moves forward with his career; your successor at P. will have a high standard to follow!
Corkage is inexpensive, so feel free to bring your own... although the list looks decent. -
Review from r l.
Lodi, CA
Updated - 12/18/2010 52 photos
Dragged the visiting kids over to my "favorite" Italian a few nights ago... the day before they were about to leave back to Las Vegas... I discovered, during my Bike Rides in the intervening period since my last visit in early 2009, to my dismay, that Palermo Ristorante is not open for Lunch anymore.
On the menu...
Bread (****) Selection of sliced French Bread and Pesto embedded Dinner Rolls, a Focaccia Flat Bread with embedded Tomato bits (I called it Pizza Bread...), and a Sesame Seed Bread Roll. IMO, the "Pizza Bread" was the best... had to order a second basket...
Bruschetta topped with Spiced Tomatoes (**** Complimentary) Grilled Bread rubbed with Garlic and Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, Salt and Pepper... topped with diced spicy Red Pepper and Tomatoes... Yum! Daughter-In-Law, Robyn, would not even try this Bruschetta... did not like Raw Tomatoes... no matter what!
Linguine Carrettiara (**** 1/2 $11.95) Olive Oil, Garlic bits, Almond Slices, and Parsley. Although very good that night, the slices of Almond was a surprise... and I missed the Red Pepper flakes that are usually used in this very, very simple entree. Also known as "Cart Driver's Spaghetti".
Gnocchi del Giorno (***** $14.95) Homemade Potato Dumplings with fresh Sauce of the Day - a Pesto Sauce. Even though this was my youngest son's entree, I got to try about 20% of it. As everyone probably knows, it's the Sauce that makes this entree... and the Pesto Sauce was very, very good. Sopped up the Pesto Sauce with an extra order of Bread Rolls...
Crab Ravioli (***-Robyn's Rating $15.95) Homemade Fresh Crab Meat filled Pasta with Pink Vodka Cream Sauce... Robyn was off-put by the sweetness of the Vodka Sauce. I tried it later and, I have to admit, it was extra-sweet, but not obtrusive. I noticed, though, that the Dinner portions were reduced from the last time I was here - only eight Ravioli.
Linguine Clams Marechiaro (**** 1/2 $14.95) Fresh Clams, Garlic, White Wine, and a touch of Marinara Sauce... Unlike her experience an evening earlier with Sole & Prawns at a Lodi restaurant... no complaints from my daughter Kathy! Didn't even get to try it... no sharing from my dear daughter...
Wanted the kids to try the Cold Zabione for Dessert, my favorite here at Palermo... but we had Sushi in Lodi just a scant five hours earlier. Maybe on their next visit...
Not very much business for Palermo a few nights ago with over an hour before closing. Just three tables occupied as we walked in, and we were the only customers remaining as we left.5 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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1/20/2010
Received from another Yelper...
Thanks for the suggestion... my wife and my kids had a great dinner.… Read more »
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Review from Eduardo C.
Sacramento, CA
5/2/2010
I'd have to say that the food at Palermo is surprisingly good especially since it's in the middle of suburbia, mind boggling really.
I had a pasta with marinara sauce and their Italian sausage. The sauce was made real well, it was no bottled sauce. I could see the sliced garlic and could tell they worked over the tomatoes to make it into the sauce. I appreciated the effort and results. Although by my tongue the sauce was a bit too sweet but I suppose that fits the taste of most people. My fellow Americans are addicted to sweet. If you wanna sell to suburbia you better make the sauce sweet. I like it a little sage-y with pepper, and some basil thrown in at the end.
I would like to come here again to get a better idea of the place. -
Review from Laura G.
Elk Grove, CA
8/3/2011
Me and my boyfriend went here for our one year anniversary dinner. This is such a great little family owned place, and they do Italian food VERY well. It's kind of in an odd location (located behind such wonderful fine dining options like Taco Bell and Carls Jr) and is not fully visible when you are driving down the street, but don't let that stop you from going there. I ordered the chicken pansotti and the sauce was so delicious that I wanted to bathe in a bathtub full of it. I almost asked the chef for the recipe! I took off one star because the service was a tad slow and we waited several minutes for our glasses of water to be refilled. Also, if you are going to order the dessert, order the tiramisu. It is to die for!
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Review from Karen S.
Elk Grove, CA
5/7/2010
We are definitely customers for life! Every time we come here the food is excellent, the service is above and beyond and they haven't priced their menu so high that you can't afford to eat there.
The staff is friendly and they remember you each and every time we visit. Every once in awhile, if you are lucky the owner sings and he greets incoming guests.
One of my favorite dishes is the Chicken Parmesan. It isn't always on the menu, but they always make it. The garlic spinach really hits the spot.
The bar area is a nice relaxing place to hang out and they have live music once in awhile. Next time you are in Elk Grove, you must stop by! -
Review from Sunny L.
2/15/2010 ROTD 3/2/2010
I brought my family out here for my brothers birthday (made reservations just in case). This place has weird decorations. Baseball memorabilia.. hm... interesting. The owner greeted us as we came in. The place wasn't packed and they had everything setup. we order food. Pretty fast on the service and bread. Pretty nice i say. Food was okay to me. My family said the food was okay. I had no bias opinions about this place, maybe it was a bad night? Im not sure. But i do like how they add capers to the plates :) mMm . I would recommend this place to try but its passable.
Pros: Service, Ambiance,
Cons: Food could be better.
Stars: 3.25 -
Review from Joe K.
2/4/2010
We arrived at Palermos early, right as they were opening for dinner. The owner waved us to a table (I guess he does not start kissing women's hands until the lights come on). We chose a table next to the large, frosted glass windows which help, along with the rest of the décor, to add a charming touch to what would otherwise be a dull suburban mall atmosphere.
A young gentleman helped us to be seated and brought us complimentary bruschetta along with a basket full of warm cheese and herb rolls with sliced French bread underneath. A little while later we were approached by our lovely waitress who seemed genuinely warm and friendly. She was very knowledgeable about the menu and took the time to make each customer feel welcome.
We started with small green salads consisting of radicchio, romain, and iceberg lettuces with a light Italian dressing. For our main courses I ordered the farfalle gratinate and was not disappointed. The butterfly pasta was cooked to absolute perfection, coated with a rich creamy sauce, complimented by porcini mushrooms, ham, and chicken and capped with a parmesan crust that added a wonderful crunchy texture. My girl friend ordered the home made fresh crab raviolis with pink vodka cream sauce which she enjoyed immensely.
Palermos is located on the corner of Elk Grove Boulevard and Emerald Oaks Drive, behind the McDonalds, a couple of blocks east of highway ninety nine.
The Wizard says; check it out.Listed in: Eating Well in Elk Grove
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Review from Christina H.
Sacramento, CA
12/10/2008
I've wanted to try this place for quite some time and finally got the opportunity last night. I wish I would have known what I was missing! Yummy McYummerton!
We were given a complimentary bread loaf and butter as well as a couple of amazing bruschetta, which was a nice touch. We also ordered the caprese salad which was very flavorful and the mozzarella was probably the best I've ever had.
I was wavering between their daily special eggplant norma and the farfalle gratinate. I told the waitress my debacle and she said the farfalle was her favorite so I chose that. Oh sweet mother of pasta gods was that good! It has butterfly pasta with cream, porcini mushrooms, ham, chicken and cheese that is crusted on the top.
I was able to try a bite of the crab ravioli and it was very rich and flavorful as well. To top off our wonderful meal, we also ordered their tiramisu. I've had quite a few tiramisus in my life time but I've never had one as balanced and delectable as this.
This was honestly the best meal I've had in quite some time! The service was nice and It was also really neat that the owner came to our table to greet us and kiss our hands. He also made a special effort when we were leaving, to shake our hands and tell us goodbye. -
Review from Matt P.
Sacramento, CA
7/12/2010
Little did I realize when I first looked up Palermo on Yelp that I had found the best Italian restaurant in Elk Grove. Judging by its location and exterior, I never expected to sample authentic Italian cuisine with an ever changing menu and attentive service.
The food:
Roasted Lamb w/ Yukon Potatoes & Spinach - The highlight of my dining experience at Palermo. The lamb was perfectly cooked with the right amount of rareness and a very flavorful, but non-overpowering seasoning/sauce. It was one of the best lamb dishes I've ever had. The potatoes were done very well also with the perfect texture and crispiness. The spinach was above average but nothing to rant on about.
Roasted Duck w/ Polenta & Spinach - On my return trip to Palermo's, I decided to try the duck and while delicious, I was a bit disappointed. I had expected the quality of the duck to exceed that of the lamb but this was not the case. The duck was cooked oddly as the breast and leg portions of the half-duck were perfect, with a delicate crispy skin. The upper portion of the duck was overcooked, the wing completely dry and inedible. Seasoned blandly, it was underwhelming for its $20 price tag. The polenta was done well with a rich flavor and smooth texture.
Crab Ravioli - My gf sampled the crab ravioli upon scanning the menu and was not disappointed. The raviolis, made from scratch, were loaded with delicious dungeness crab, flavorful with delicate seasoning to not overpower the seafood. The dough used for the ravioli was cooked well, not falling apart, but still tender. The sauce for the crab ravioli is a bit acquired. Quite complimentary to the delicate crab, I can see the sauce hit or miss to some without a broad acceptance of different tastes.
Service:
Upon my first visit to Palermo, I was quite satisfied with the service. The owner promptly shook my hand upon entering and the waiter assigned to us was very efficient, making sure to keep our drinks topped off. The food was a bit slow on arrival but that's partially due to what we ordered (roasted duck/lamb). On my second visit, food took a bit long again (not too bad), but the waiter failed to refill drinks readily and took a long time to bring the check. I did enjoy the complimentary parmigiana spread over our entrees however.
Overall, a very worth it dining experience, especially in the city of Elk Grove. -
Review from Marlisa K.
Sacramento, CA
12/16/2009 2 Check-ins Here
Family owned and operated... Need I say more?
The atmosphere is very nice, We were greeted by the owner at the door where he shook the men's hands and kissed mine and other ladies that entered his establishment. (what a shock nowadays) The food was very good. Full bar and extensive wine list. The waitress, knew the menu, like she had grown up eating and talking about the dishes her whole life. Not what you expect from a restaurant that's in a stripmall shopping center. Nice change from all the italian chain spots in the valley. -
Review from Pom P.
Elk Grove, CA
7/4/2011
Palermo is a small family owned and operated restaurant in old Elk Grove that serves incredible Italian food. Their menu is somewhat limited, but what they offer is absolutely stellar, and the service is wonderful as well. I've dined here so many times that a few of the staff remember what I drink.
If you go, don't be surprised if the owner comes over to your table to greet you in person! From personal experience I can say that the gnocchi, prawns and linguine clams will knock your flipping socks off. The prawns and clams are fresh and plentiful, and the gnocchi will melt in your mouth (makes me hungry just thinking about it). Palermo makes those national Olive/Macaroni chains look like fast food.
Palermo is without a doubt one of the best Italian restaurants in the region. -
Review from ANGRYNINJA G.
Northern, CA
6/8/2011
The price is very much worth the food quality. The owner is very friendly and does a great job with the food. The service is simple and direct. I very much recommend the Canoli, absolutely scrumptious. I ordered the Veal special, and the Sword Fish. The veggies were also done to perfection.
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Review from Steve S.
6/26/2008 1 Check-in Here
My favorite place in EG!! The owners are so nice. I just wish I could venture off of the daily specials part of the menu to see what else they have to offer. It is a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for and that is good quality non chain real Italian food.
Ciao.Listed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from jd d.
Sacramento, CA
1/18/2007
There aren't many real italian restaurants out there. This isn't your Olive Garden, Old Spaghetti, or Macaroni Grill. This is some real authentic stuff you're going to eat here.
OK, first of all, the prices. Now, don't be alarmed, it is quite expensive. All dishes range from 11+ dollars. The choices on the menu can be a bit low in choice, but overall, they have great dishes.
Me and my sister went here, because we took advice from one of our friends who actually lived in Italy and they were trying to find a real good italian restaurant. They were quite settled when they ate here at Palermo Ristorante. The place is family owned, so the people who work there are pretty much, the people who own the place :D Anyway, we were of course seated with good service. Loads of bread came our way to fulfill our bread needs, and it was free of course. Also, we came on a good day I guess because we were treated to a on the house bruschetta.
I decided to order a FARFALLE GRATINATE, and my sister ordered the CHICKEN PANSOTTI. We even tried out some good ANTIPASTI too, and we ordered some CARPRESE (mozzarella with olive oil). They even offered if we wanted wine or not, but I said, no thanks on that and ordered a cup of CAPPUCCINO. Everything was soooo filled great taste and everything was just right. If you watched food channel enough, the food looked as if Rachel Ray was in the back or something. Quite tasty indeed.
Well that's one fine dine restaurant in the South Sac area. I have yet to try out the other real italian restaurant here in south sacramento: Frasenetti's!! I heard they have some good steaks!Listed in: TOP PLACES TO EAT IN MY…
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Review from Jacqueline C.
Sacramento, CA
10/12/2009
I went to Palermo on the recommendation of some good friends of mine. We all appreciated the complimentary bruchetta they served us.
I ordered the gnocchi with half pesto sauce and half marinara sauce and I thought it was yummy. The gnocchi was just as gnocchi should be, tender and a little chewy. My husband had the osso bucco which was the veal served with polenta and spinach. I don't usually eat veal but this veal was really tender. The polenta was very good and tasty. The spinach was good as well.
My friends had a pork dish and a pasta with sausage and mushrooms, respectively. I had a bite of each and they were both very good, although I liked my gnocchi the best. So in conclusion, everything I tasted at this place was good. The server was also very knowledgeable about wines and was able to recommend an excellent rose when I told her that I like sweet wines. This is a great place to go if you like Italian and are tired of the chain restaurants in Elk Grove and want something different. -
Review from Megan B.
Sacramento, CA
5/11/2010
I was skeptical when eating at a place in a strip mall plus the crowd of EG kids loitering around... but once you enter the place its like any other place, small and personable. Waiter was attentive and brought out drinks quickly, offered option of tall or short sized beer. Rattled off some wines not on the list... (urg) I ended up with a Syrah I enjoyed, no idea of the name...
partner had the chicken parm, wasn't happy by the cooked spinach or roasted potatoes. I enjoyed the spinach with my raviolis of ground chicken and spinach...I was on overload in a good way. next time I will ask them to sub out for some pasta which he was willing to eat. I'd go back but with my friends not my husband. He's just not a pasta guy.
the starter was yummy - hubby doesn't care for tomatoes so I got to consume his. he loved the SD bread tho. -
Review from Jason B.
Elk Grove, CA
2/4/2010
Staff service - 4 stars
Food - 4 stars
Atmosphere - 3 stars
Tomato Sauce - 5 stars
Cold Sourdough - 1 star
A friend and I had never been here, so we went late one night. I am glad we did, as this is a good find. Overall I was satisfied. If I was a typical person, I would give this place 5 stars. But I am very picky when it comes to my food. I can cook pretty well myself, so my standards are high.
I ordered the Sea Bass dinner and the fish was cooked perfectly. The tomato sauce reminded me of my friend Luigi sauce from his old restaurant. I was on a low carb kick during this week, so I nibbled at the pasta, which was cooked perfectly.
I stayed away from the sourdough, and my friend informed that it was cold. That is a no no for me. If I wanted cold sourdough, I would go to the store.
My friend ordered the Penne Pasta with Meatballs. It was tasty, but I definitely had the better meal. I also tried the house soup. It was a good soup, nothing outstanding, but good.
The atmosphere in this place is odd. Not bad, just odd. The interior actually takes away from the quality of food. The table areas are very open, almost cafeteria style, which is a shame because that did place a ding on the score card.
This might be a good place to bring a first date if you want good food, but not wanting to push the romantic side of things. Just my opinion.
The staff kept my water glass filled, and that is usually my tip meter. If I run out of water, no more than 10% tip. If I run out twice, 5%. This place received a 20% tip.Listed in: Food Places to try Again
