When any new restaurant opens that’s as anticipated as Il Ponte, it always leaves you wondering, “Is it really worth the hype?” We were able to answer that question (at least for ourselves) last Thursday as we sat down in the beautiful dining room of the “NYC in MKE” Italian restaurant.
It was a rainy, dreary evening, but after stepping through the doors, the gloom actually worked to enhance the atmosphere. With the soft green accent colors and warm lighting, it felt cozy and inviting, a refuge from the storms blowing outside. Our waitress was incredibly kind and attentive, leaning into the feeling that they’re inviting you into their home for dinner.
From the beginning, it was tricky to make a choice for fear that you were missing out on something even better. The espresso martini, which I’d seen other MKE foodies post about earlier in the week, sounded tantalizing, especially with their whipped espresso honey on top. However, I decided I was in a wine mood, so a glass of Sauvignon Blanc it was.
It was the same experience with the appetizers, we were torn between the arancini, calamari, and bread basket – because who doesn’t love some good bread and oil to dip into at the table. We ended up going with the calamari which was lightly breaded and perfectly fried. We wished the rings had a little more meat to them, but dunked in the bright marinara with a squirt of lemon across them, they were still a good option to kick off the meal.
The Il Ponte Caesar is an absolute must. Easily in the top two Caesar salads I’ve had in Milwaukee. The crisp lettuce leaves are generously coated in the tangy Caesar and topped with a healthy dose of parmesan and a few extra-large croutons. If you’re not a salad person, you can skip this part. But if you’re debating whether or not to get it, I promise that you will not regret it. So, please order it.
I wish I could say it was a tough decision for the main course, but honestly, as soon as I saw their Fra Diavolo pasta (plus shrimp, please) on the menu, I was sold. I’m a sucker for spicy seafood pasta in a red sauce. The chili-laced tomato sauce clung to every bite, and I was hooked. We also got the Ricotta Ravioli which was a comforting classic with the creamy cheese filling and wonderfully contrasted by their fresh tomato sauce.
After the main dishes, we needed to try a dessert. It was non-negotiable – especially when you’ve got a sweet tooth as bad as mine. There were a few contenders that we debated, mostly between the Tiramisu and the Chocolate-Hazelnut Arancini.
We ended up going with the Tiramisu and let’s just say it left me speechless. First off, it comes out in this unique shape, which makes it feel even more elevated than your typical slice. Then, they pour molten chocolate over the top. Yes, as if it couldn’t get more indulgent, they have to go and do that!
It was the perfect ratio of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa, and I have thought about it at least once a day since Thursday.
Our dinner at Il Ponte was lovely, and I’m looking forward to my next visit – because we’ll definitely be going back. I’ve already envisioned taking my out-of-town friends and family there, too.
Il Ponte is a wonderful addition to the Milwaukee dining (and Italian) scene, and we look forward to watching them welcome Milwaukeeans and visitors alike to their tables. If you’re looking for your next date-night spot, want to host a night out with friends, or just want to treat yourself, Il Ponte will be your new go-to dinner spot.
But don’t just take our word for it, make your own reservation and experience it for yourself!