showcase magazine | dining & shopping 2010
dining
mama stortini’s 240 West Kent Station St, Kent 253.854.5050 mamastortinis.com
Not unlike bistros and cafés in France and Italy, Mama Stortini’s is the community gathering place where food is savored and friends mark the spontaneous moments in their lives. The welcoming scents of minestrone, Bolognese sauce and pizza waft from the kitchen into the dining area. The atmosphere is casual. Framed artwork adorns each booth; adding interest are antique candlesticks, lamps, and plants placed on low partitions. Stortini’s resides in the space formerly occupied by Zephyr Bar & Grill at Kent Station. The remodeled eatery feels open yet intimate. A bank of windows adds light; cozy booths are suitable for a romantic dinner; larger booths and tables can accommodate a family or group of friends. Seating is also available in the bar or outdoor patio. The wide-ranging menu is suitable for a variety of situations and occasions, from grazing to special occasions. The menu has many choices and a range of prices to appeal to a wide variety of expectations, needs and occasions. Flavors are simple, bold and delicious. Diners can be assured of high quality and creativity. Portions are attractively presented and generous. Starters include smoked mozzarella and tomato bruschetta, crispy calamari, and coconut crusted black tiger prawns. Maytag blue cheese salad, grilled steak salad, and chicken and pear salad with maple vinaigrette are a few of the many salad offerings.
Pizzas are baked in a brick oven. Brushing the crusts with garlic olive oil and lightly grilling them imparts a light smoky character and crisp tender texture. Italian sausage from Verone’s in Tacoma is featured for a unique and authentic Italian flavor. Chicken parmesan is finished with mozzarella and zesty marinara, accompanied by a side of spaghetti. Also available are veal Marsala, scallops picatta and petite grilled filet mignon. Stortini’s uses only certified Nebraska beef, choice grade and aged for twenty-eight days for tenderness and full flavor. Veal is purchased from America’s finest veal producer, Provimi Foods in Wisconsin. Among the pasta choices are Pacific shellfish fettuccine, baked chicken cannelloni, and traditional baked lasagna. Mama Stortini’s imports La Bella’s all-semolina pasta; the sauces are made in-house. Many entrees are available in both lunch and dinner sized portions; the restaurant also offers a children’s menu. Another option is the family feast; as the name implies, an abundance of food is served family style. Luciano Pavarotti said, “One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating.” The attentive service, fine fare, and casual ambience at Mama Stortini’s ensure that attention is well spent. JANAE COLOMBINI
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