Many months ago, Bahram told me he had somewhere special to take me. We got all dressed up and then went on the 40 minute drive from Maitland to Dr. Phillips area of Orlando. He took me by the hand and strolled into a little restaurant tucked into the corner of a plaza. It seemed unassuming until we walked in the door of Christini’s.

I was taken aback by the elegance and hospitality of this little italian restaurant. From it’s elegant decor, intimate table settings, beautiful bar area and amazing wait staff, it was a wonderful experience from start to finish. I’m sure we were given a bit of extra attention seeing as Bahram worked there many moons ago while he was in college and much of the staff was the same as it was 20 years ago.

The menu changes regularly, the wine list (and accompanying somelier) is impressive and each table is waited on by numerous staff, including two dedicated waiters. We’ve been there twice and both times, the manager (both times was the owner’s daughter) visited every table. To top off the evening? They had a strolling accordian player that can play any request, including “You are my sunshine” as was Bahram’s request.

Tuesday night before Bahram left for California, we returned to Christini’s to share an intimate dinner together. I was as pleased as the first time we visited and I certainly hope we can find time on another of his visits to go back again.

Dishes:
Calamaretti Fritti:I adore Calamari and I think I’ve had it at every restaurant that’s ever had it on the menu. Christini’s Calamari dish was the best by far. The breading was perfectly light and golden, the calamari were still tender and the accompanying sauces were a perfect compliment. A must have if you visit!

Mozzarella Caprese: All of Chrisitini’s dishes are made with the freshest quality ingredients and this is evident in their caprese salad. The mozzarella was creamy and mild on the palate, the tomatoes were fat and juicy and the balsamic was aged to perfection.
Ravioli Aurora: You can’t go to an italian restaurant and not have some sort of pasta as a course. I adored this cheese ravioli served with a simple pink sauce, especially with a requested addition of two shrimp. Yumm!

Piccata Di Vitello Al Limone: This version of Veal Piccata was to die for. Perfectly tender, delicately flavored and a house specialty. It’s a large serving though, so I’m glad we were sharing this dish.

If you visit, make sure you end your meal with the Tiramisu, which is served in a very unique way. Oh and ask for the bartender’s special cappucino – it’s worth the wait!

Presentation: Perfectly clean presentations. Beautifully homey and yet elegantly arranged.

Service:The service is what puts Christini’s in a class of it’s own. Of course, their food is amazing, but the attention and knowledge of all the staff will make you want to return again and again.

Ambiance: The perfect romantic spot for dinner for two. Make sure you request a booth. It would also be quite enjoyable for family get togethers down on the floor. Very elegant and yet comfortable.

I adore Christini’s and I will be visiting over and over again. In fact, it will be my restaurant of choice for any out of town guests!

Rating: For Upscale, Fine Dining:
Ambiance: 10
Food Quality and Taste: 10
Service: 10
Presentation: 10
Experience:10

Overall: 10 – Will return again and again and will force anyone who comes to visit to return as well.