"I've lived in NYC most of my life...and even in that town, I've had few instances where I was inspired enough to rave about the food. Eggplant Parm is among my most favorite foods. I've been spoiled by restaurants like Parm, Carbone, I Sodi, L'Artusi...etc. Enter La Catena, a hidden gem in, of all places, Ardsley, NY. This understated throwback to old school Italian eateries is, astonishingly, comparable to my most favorite NYC haunts. Their Eggplant Parmesan is reminiscent of Gordon Ramsey's celebrated recipe...possibly better. I've been traveling from Long Island to Ardsley for almost a year and stop at La Catena whenever I'm itching for some great eggplant Parm....and don't get me started on their Bronzino...the presentation, the taste, the texture...just forking exceptional. (Anyone who says otherwise about either of these dishes probably has culinary experience limited to frozen dinners and diner food). And, to make the experience even better, the service is what you would expect in old Italy. You're almost always greeted by the owner himself, Jeff, whose sole mission, it seems, is to make sure you're happy and satisfied. The man is like an energizer bunny; hopping from table to table to bar to table making sure everyone is having a good time and happy with their order. And the entire experience is enhanced by an excellent background music playlist that seems to never play the same song twice, no matter how many time you cost. Loud enough to hear and low enough to allow you to chat with whomever you're with. If you're ever in Ardsley, NY, check the spot out....call ahead though. Sometimes tables are hard to come by."
