Avon Welcomes Da Capo Ristorante

Da Capo Pizzeria, Avon

Da Capo's Italiano Ristorante and its brick-oven pizza quickly made a name for itself when it opened in Litchfield last year, winning rave reviews for its way-above-average Italian food.

Now it has expanded to Avon.

Settled in at 5 E. Main St., in space once known as the Pentangle Pub, the Route 44 restaurant has warmth, informal style and good food, thanks to owner Byron Rondos and company.

"I am embarrassed by how well we have been received and how kind the town has been to us," Rondos says of the reception the restaurant has received since opening in September. "We felt we offer affordable dining for families and thought that seemed to be what diners are looking for in this economy."

Apparently so. Rarely is there a night when the line is not long at Da Capo's, which boasts brick walls, hardwood floors, imported lighting from Italy, a dining room and full bar area. Soft-hued faux-painted walls are decorated with a mix of antique and new copper cooking utensils and a series of vintage photos of Avon.

Described as "upper casual" by one diner, Da Capo's has an extensive menu, and patrons also can order family style.

"You can order for four and serve six," Rondos says of the family-style option. He also emphasizes the restaurant's commitment to fresh produce, cheeses and meats, which often means early-morning trips to farmers' markets.

Besides the signature thin-crusted, brick-oven pizza — prepared in front of you if you'd like — the menu includes family-style entrees ranging in price from $22.95 to $40.95 for a family of four. Choices, which also are available in individual portions, include Spaghetti Pomodoro and Veal Parmigiana. Appetizers include Mussels Fra Diavolo and da Capo eggplant, calamari and zucchini chips. A variety of salads also are offered, topped with fresh cheese and served individual or family-sized.

Rondos, an 18-year veteran of the food industry, says he wants everything made in his kitchen to be as close to perfect as possible, so when it came to dessert, he drafted family member Constantina Rondos as his pastry chef. Just four desserts are offered daily, including tiramisu, but all are handmade and fresh.

Da Capo's is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturday. Telephone is 860-677-5599.