Nestled on Jerusalem Avenue in Merrick, Guy Anthony’s comes with a promising 4.5-star rating that had us eager to indulge in what we hoped would be a delightful Italian dining experience. Unfortunately, our visit left much to be desired and had us scratching our heads over those high ratings.
A Fishy Start
We began our meal with passable clams that had a slightly fishy taste that hinted at less-than-fresh seafood. While not entirely off-putting, it set a concerning precedent for the courses.
The Main Course Missteps
When it came to the main courses, things took a further nosedive. My husband opted for the Veal Sorrentino, a dish that should be a harmonious blend of flavors. Instead, it arrived drowning in oil and an abundance of sauce that seemed to clash rather than complement. He soldiered through the dish, but it was clear from his expression that enjoyment was not on the menu.
My Chicken Marsala echoed the same unfortunate theme. Instead of a rich, savory dish, I was served chicken swimming in an overwhelming pool of brown sauce. The preparation felt careless, leaving me longing for the comforting Italian flavors that were promised but never delivered.
A Puzzling Reputation
As we left, unsatisfied and somewhat bewildered, we couldn’t help but question the glowing reviews that had initially drawn us to Guy Anthony’s. Was it a matter of differing tastes, where perhaps we are spoiled by exceptional Italian dining experiences elsewhere? Or were these reviews not entirely authentic?
Oh Well…
In the end, our visit to Guy Anthony’s was not the Italian culinary experience we had hoped for. While the ambiance was pleasant enough, the food left much to be desired. For those who appreciate authentic and well-prepared Italian cuisine, this may not be the place to find it. Our experience serves as a reminder that sometimes, the stars don’t tell the whole story.
