Last night, we met friends for dinner at Piccolino Boca, a local Italian restaurant recently under new ownership. We learned that the new owner is wisely holding off on renovations until after the busy season, a decision that makes perfect business sense.
However, it’s clear that Piccolino is in dire need of a refresh. The decor feels distinctly 1990s, a bit like stepping into a time capsule. On a weeknight, the restaurant wasn’t overly crowded, which meant a pleasantly manageable noise level.
One unique aspect of Piccolino’s location is its strip mall setting, which currently features a number of vacant storefronts. While this might be a concern for some, it does translate to ample and convenient parking.
Ultimately, the restaurant’s success will hinge on the quality of its food, and in this regard, Piccolino truly delivers. We began our meal with Baked Clams and a Caesar Salad. Both appetizers were exceptionally flavorful, surpassing many we’ve sampled in Boca Raton. As always, I lamented the absence of tableside Caesar preparation—a lost art that elevates the salad to an art form. However, I understand that this practice is rare these days.
For our main courses, we chose Veal Sorrentina and Chicken Scarpariello. The Veal was remarkably tender, and the cheese was melted to perfection, complementing the dish without overpowering it.
The Chicken Scarpariello was also a standout, easily one of the best I’ve had in Florida, though it still falls slightly short of my all-time favorite at 388 Italian Restaurant. The spicy sausage and peppers were perfectly executed, delivering a delightful kick.
I knew I was in good hands when I asked the owner if the Chicken Scarpariello was served on the bone or off. His emphatic response – “On the bone, of course! That’s the only way to serve it!” – confirmed that they understand the authentic preparation of this classic dish.
The burning question: would I return to Piccolino? The answer is a resounding yes, especially after the renovations are completed. This is high praise, given the abundance of excellent Italian restaurants in Boca Raton. Piccolino’s commitment to authentic flavors and quality ingredients makes it a worthy contender in the Boca dining scene.