We had a feeling we were going to like Capri Ristorante in Berwyn when, upon entering, we heard Frank Sinatra singing “Nice and Easy.” Then, when an elderly Italian-American diner voluntarily left his perch at the bar and offered to translate the Italian words on the “Specials” board, the good vibes continued.
Capri lived up to the promise where it really counts. From appetizer to dessert, the food was distinctive, servings were generous, service was excellent and the atmosphere convivial. All this and Sinatra too.
Not all of Capri’s menu items meet Cheap Eats requirements. About half of the entrees exceed our $10 limit, so we played by the rules and ordered from the other half. And we left with doggie bags.
Soup or salad comes with entrees–not always a given these days. The fresh, colorful salads boasted fresh greens and a delightfully tangy Italian dressing. We went through the bread, fresh and soft, in a matter of minutes; a second loaf swiftly appeared on our table.
One of us who chose the lentil soup when she had really wanted minestrone (not available that night) had no regrets when she tasted the dark, thick broth and perfectly cooked lentils.
One of the specials that night, pasta with meatballs ($7.95), came with choice of pasta–angel hair was chosen–al dente and overflowing in a large bowl. The pasta was topped by a pair of large, tender meatballs, seasoned with mouth-watering hints of basil, garlic and salt. The acceptable marinara sauce hovered closer to tart than sweet.
The mellizana Parmigiana (eggplant Parmesan, $7.25) was a winner. Heaped with marinara sauce and mozzarella, the entree starred meaty, flavorful slices of eggplant that were soft enough to cut with a fork. The generous serving disappeared quickly.
The pollo Calibrizala (a chicken dish named for Capri founder/chef Maria Rovito’s hometown in Calabria, $9.50) featured half a bird, its tender meat falling off the bone and sauteed with a spicy marinade of peppers, onions and olives that coated the platter.
An array of desserts were offered, and not to be missed. Tiramisu ($3) is ubiquitous, yes, but not always a dependable choice. Capri’s, made on the premises, could compete with the best. The large slice was artistically encircled on its plate with swirls of chocolate sauce. The hazelnut gelato ($3.50; lemon was also available) was creamy and refreshing.
The biggest drawback was the coffee ($1). Regular and decaffeinated versions were weak.
The service, however, was to our liking: water glasses and coffee cups always filled, plates removed promptly, and when requested, our waiter’s recommendations proved on the mark.
The 80-seat Capri provides diners with an elegant ambience, spacious seating that encourages conversation, a colorful mural bedecked with Italian lights, and a full bar adjoining the restaurant. Other locations are in Oak Lawn and Northlake.
Capri Ristorante
(Three forks)
3126 S. Oak Park Ave.
Berwyn, 708-484-6313
11 a.m – 11 p.m. Mon – Thurs.; 11 a.m. – midnight Fri.; 4 p.m.- midnight Sat.; 1-10 p.m. Sun.
Wheelchair accessible
Credit cards: AE, M, V
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Ratings key:
4 forks: Top of the class
3 forks: Better than most
2 forks: Very good fare
1 fork: Middle of the road
