Hankering for fresh Italian fare in a relaxed, leisurely setting?

No need to travel far; a meal at 7 Sisters Italiano is the only ticket you’ll need. The family-owned establishment not only caters to those craving the carbohydrate-rich, cheesy Italian dishes we all love, but also to individuals with celiac disease who are unable to eat foods containing gluten (found in wheat and others grains).  

On a recent dinner date with my beloved beau at 7 Sisters, he opted for the regular menu, while I elected to sample the gluten-free selections. First on the table, a basket filled with fresh-baked breads: gluten-free, regular and focaccia (topped with olives, sun-dried tomatoes and capers). The gluten-free slices were slightly sweet and highly addictive. Gluten-free or not, this recipe is sure to please any appetite’s “daily bread” craving.

Next, we were presented with a Mozzarella Roll. The antipasto – prepared with mozzarella (made in-house) then stuffed with capicola ham, Genoa salami, olives, basil, onions, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes and drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette – was a rainbow of colors and flavors. In a matter of minutes, we had devoured the dish in its entirety.

For the main attraction, my dining companion savored the Chicken Cheesesteak while I feasted on the gluten-free Veggie Lasagna. The sandwich’s creamy white American cheese stole the show, but the supporting ingredients – fried onions, mushrooms, green peppers and juicy chicken – played important roles in its deliciousness, too. My lasagna, featuring gluten-free noodles (handmade at the restaurant), fooled my pasta-loving taste buds. They still had the al dente texture of traditional pasta that I love so much. Chock-full of fresh vegetables (zucchini, mushrooms and tomatoes), melted cheese (oozing at every bite) and slow-simmered marinara sauce – this lasagna was flavorful and hearty.

For the grand finale, we enjoyed 7 Sister’s “gluten-free” spin on a Thin Mint cookie; the rich, chocolaty dessert had me calling for an encore. Satisfied, we departed the eatery applauding their ability to execute gluten-free dishes without sacrificing flavor. Bravo!

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