Ristorante Paoletti
Nestled in the charming town of Highlands, NC, Paoletti is a beacon of culinary excellence, inviting you to embark on an unforgettable gastronomic journey through Italy. This high-end Italian restaurant is renowned for its exquisite dishes, crafted with the finest ingredients and an unwavering passion for authentic flavors. Here, beneath the soft glow of candlelight and the gentle murmur of contented diners, I am inviting you to embark on a poetic journey through the essence of exquisite Italian cuisine.
Begin with a Whisper: Escargot Al Forno
In the quiet corners of Ristorante Paoletti’s kitchen, magic unfolds as tender escargot meets garlic-herb butter, mushrooms, and seasoned breadcrumbs. The Escargot Al Forno ($24) is a true serenade of textures, a rare melody of flavors that dances upon the palate. Each bite is a whisper of romance, a prelude to the symphony that follows.
Le Paste: The Dance of Gnocchi alla Sorrentina
From the heart of Italy to the soul of North Carolina, the Gnocchi alla Sorrentina ($36) tells a tale of love and tradition. Housemade ricotta gnocchi float in a sea of filetto di pomodoro sauce, crafted from the revered San Marzano DOP tomatoes. Local North Carolina stracciatella adds a touch of home, while basil oil and three Italian cheeses create a harmony that sings of comfort and elegance.
Secondo Piatto: A Sonata of Costolette di Vitello alla Marsala
The second main course unfolds like a grand sonata, each note rich and resonant. The Costolette di Vitello alla Marsala ($69) features a milk-fed, bone-in veal chop, tender and succulent. The wild mushrooms-marsala sauce cascades like a symphony, enveloping the veal in a deep, savory embrace. This dish is a masterpiece, a testament to the art of Italian cuisine.
The Sweet Crescendo: Tira Misu
As the evening draws to a close, let Paoletti’s Tira Misu ($15) be the final, sweet crescendo. Italian lady finger cookies, soaked in Kahlua and espresso, are layered with a mascarpone cream so decadent, it lingers like a dream. Each spoonful is a poetic ending, a dessert that leaves a lasting impression on both heart and soul.
Experience the Elegance of Paoletti
At Paoletti, dining is evidently so much more than a meal—it is a unique symphony of flavors, an ode to the beauty of high-end, Italian culinary traditions. I am inviting you to explore this Highlands sanctuary, where every dish tells a story, and every visit becomes a cherished memory.
Reservations ONLY!
At Ristorante Paoletti, the allure of the Italian cuisine draws patrons from near and far. Tables, coveted and cherished, are often reserved far in advance, leaving little chance for the spontaneous wanderer to secure a seat amidst the elegance of the dining room. Yet, do not despair, for there remains a glimmer of hope for those who seek to indulge in Paoletti’s culinary artistry without prior reservation: As the clock strikes five, the doors of Paoletti open. Here, at the bar, a space is always held for those who arrive early, eager to experience the magic of this superlative menu.
Links: Website | Online Reservation | Tel: (828) 526-4906 | About
Nick Saint Clair