by Patrick Flannery
Photographs by Kjeld Mahoney
The newest place on our list opened in May and is something of a revival. It replaces the former Villa Roma, and the new owners have even brought back the staff and chef. But the revamped house is all-new, with expanded seating to accommodate more families. “It’s an extension of our home,” says Managing Partner Lauren Milano Wiacek. The bigger menu honors husband Frank Wiacek Jr.’s heritage while hanging onto predecessor classics like chicken parm and lasagna.
milanositaliankitchen.com
278 Route 28, Harwich | 774-237-9089
FLAVOR: While people often left Villa Roma carrying doggie bags, Milano’s favors European-sized (single-serving) pasta portions. The menu includes steak and local seafood, and the espresso martini is a dynamite nightcap.
VIBE: A modern nod to Napoli—there’s a map on the wall, not far from a portrait of Sophia Loren. And the overhauled bar is now an inviting horseshoe, an improvement designed to welcome more guests. That’s amore.




