James the Food Slayer: Rizzo’s

In tonight’s installment of the Westmoreland dinner series (unofficial name), Mr. Clougherty and I ate at Rizzo’s in Crabtree. I was inspired to try it out after the Hempfield Area swimming and diving team held their yearly banquet here this past Spring.

Rizzo’s is located on Rizzo Road in Crabtree, just off US 119. Nearby is Bardine’s Country Smokehouse. The former Carbone’s restuarant is just up US 119 near Dollar General. The restaurant and marketplace are on one side. The banquet hall is across the road.

Giant Eagle carries Rizzo’s Spaghetti Sauce, as well as other products. You can also find those in the Marketplace.

We were seated quickly and we were given the choice of where to eat. Outdoor seating was an option but given the heat and humidity that wasn’t an option. We chose the dining room. On our way there we walked down a hallway filled with pictures and newspaper and magazine articles. Some of the pictures were of big time celebrities like Arnold Palmer and Barbara Walters. The articles talk about how good Rizzo’s service is, as well as their food. For me, tonight did not disappoint.

The menu was plentiful with many entrees to choose from. Whatever pasta dish you ordered, you were blessed with their hearty tomato sauce. I ordered the cheese ravioli with a side salad while Kevin (Mr. Clougherty) got spaghetti with meatballs. It was hard to finish it all but I accomplished it. The beer and cocktails list was decent while the wine list was extensive. This place goes all out to give you the best meal and the best service. Menu and Food get an A.

Our server was very friendly, professional, and took excellent care of us. She gets an A+.

Overall grade: A

I was hoping to visit the marketplace after our meal and check out the banquet hall. Rain kept me from my appointed rounds. I’ll make up for that and get some pictures posted at a later date. It was a great experience nonetheless.

While I’m on the subject of local italian fare, I’m interested in having a meal at Pasta Too sometime this Fall. They are located in Bethel Park just off of PA 88 (Library Road).

Other stops this year include EDO Hibachi (my second visit there) and North Park Lounge. We’ll end the series in October with dinner at Oliver’s Pourhouse.