Capretta Hits the Ground Running in Scarsdale

The managers of Scarsdale’s newest Italian restaurant, Capretta, have hit the ground running. The opening was long anticipated, and shoppers watched for months as the space formerly occupied by Japanese restaurant Akai underwent its transformation.

When Capretta finally opened in late September, diners were greeted by a colorful tile floor, a long bar, a large wood-burning oven, and a façade of windows that open onto the Spencer Place sidewalk. Even better, the proprietors, Z Hospitality Group, are experienced restaurateurs who operate well-known spots such as Terra and Mediterraneo in Greenwich and Aurora in Rye. They have the know-how to bring first-class food and hospitality to Scarsdale’s discerning but welcoming clientele. Capretta has been an instant hit.

We were invited to dine on a Monday, and the restaurant was already packed and lively. If this was what Monday night looked like, we could only imagine the scene on a Saturday!

Despite the crowd, we had plenty of space and could easily hear our companions over the buzz of conversation.

A look at the menu revealed so many appealing options that choosing was no easy task. Fortunately, we were attending a tasting and had the opportunity to sample a wide range of dishes.

First, the libations. Recognizing that some diners prefer lower-alcohol or alcohol-free options, the drink menu is divided into several categories. There are proprietary cocktails featuring creative combinations, classic cocktails, and four fruity spritzes made with nonalcoholic prosecco. A collection of aptly named “Placebo” drinks offers alcohol-free alternatives that look just as enticing as their spirited counterparts. There is also a pleasing selection of red and white wines, along with beers to suit a variety of tastes.

The food menu has something for everyone, including vegetarians, pizza aficionados, pasta lovers, and those seeking a satisfying main course. Choices range from chicken and fish to steak, pork chops, and even braised short ribs.

With so many tempting dishes, it was difficult to know how much to eat—or how to save room for what was coming next!

We began with an endive and chicory salad tossed with Black Mission figs, walnuts, and cheese in a white balsamic dressing. It earned rave reviews around the table. Other starters included veal meatballs in tomato butter and zucchini flowers stuffed with shrimp and mascarpone, served with a tomato marinade.

Needless to say, I was already feeling full before two irresistible pizzas emerged from the wood-burning oven.

The first was topped with San Marzano tomatoes, wild oregano, and pecorino cheese. Its crust was crisp, with just the slightest char, and the pizza was delicious enough to stand on its own as a meal. Next came “The Detroit,” a deep-dish pie topped with pepperoni, cherry peppers, and garlic, then finished with spicy honey.

Need I say more?

Another standout came from the pasta menu. The agnolotti—half-moon-shaped stuffed pasta pockets—were filled with roasted chicken and served with chanterelle mushrooms in a rich brown sauce. Delicious!

Next time, I’ll pace myself, skip a few appetizers, and save room for the main courses. The Parmesan-crusted halibut, served with zucchini noodles in a beurre blanc sauce, was voted the group’s favorite. The Chicken Scarpariello, accompanied by sweet sausage, roasted potatoes, and cherry peppers, was another hit. We rounded out the savory courses with rich, braised short ribs served with potato pavé and a mascarpone-horseradish sauce.

My companions ordered dessert, and everything looked delicious. Sadly, by that point, I simply couldn’t manage another bite!

It was truly a feast, and Capretta delivered on every level: an appealing setting, a lively atmosphere, and a menu that offers something for every taste. I’ll be returning to this happening spot as soon as I can reserve on Open Table.

Buon appetito, Scarsdale!

Capretta
57 Spencer Place
Scarsdale
(914) 202 6900