Eat Albuquerque - ABQ Restaurant Reviews and Dining Guide

Trombino’s Bistro Italiano

January 16th, 2007 by eleet34

5415 Academy, N.E.
Albuquerque, NM
821-5974
website

This is an Albuquerque born establishment from a family with strong loyalty to their Italian roots. The Trombino’s moved to New Mexico in the late 60’s and started in a restaurant called “Trombino’s Hamburgers.” Later in 1978, they created what it is today, their own style of Italian Restaurant and 35 recipes that reflect old-style Italian food.

For the most part the food here is very good and served in an elegant setting, much like the atmosphere. In this restaurant I tried Veal Marsala for the first time and was hooked. Now it’s one of my favorite Italian recipes and I have it whenever I can find it on a menu. The sauce has changed a little since then, but it is still good, just not quite as sweet. In this dish, a sweet marsala wine sauce is served over tender seasoned strips of veal, crimini mushrooms, and angel hair pasta.

Another favorite of mine is the Chicken Under a Brick which is a flavorful herb-crusted chicken breast, tender and moist on the inside, baked under the weight of a hot brick. This entrée is served with your choice of parmesan mashed potatoes or a spinach salad with a basil vinaigrette. I would also recommend some of their family favorites like eggplant Parmesan and Fritti Di Mare (clams, shrimp, scallops, and mussels steamed with white wine and garlic, then tossed with tomatoes and linguine pasta). Trombino’s is located next to one of the best fresh fish markets in the city, so it’s always a good choice to try one of their fresh fish selections whenever they’re available.

The servers in this restaurant are very knowledgeable about the food and wine (which is as important as the food for an Italian meal). I only received bad service one time here where the waiter was rude and did not pay enough attention to our table. I should mention that you won’t receive the most prompt service Trombinos, it is more of a relaxed atmosphere. That’s bad for those on a schedule, but good for those looking to take their time to enjoy the experience.

I really enjoy the atmosphere in this restaurant, the dining room is very elegant and relaxing while the bar area can really feel like a traditional Italian pub. For those looking for a romantic Italian spot, this is an excellent choice. I would also recommend to those looking to make a good impression to go during slow hours, you will have plenty of privacy to make the meal feel that much more special.

I would not recommend this restaurant for any of the more common Italian entrees due to the higher prices. However, there are some unique and flavorful dishes that use choice ingredients and are worth the higher prices. Ultimately, for the unique dishes, fresh seafood and high quality meats, wine, and relaxing atmosphere, Trombino’s is a great place to visit.

Taste:
[rate 7.5]
Service:
[rate 7]
Ambiance:
[rate 8]
Overall Reader Rating
[ratings]

   Post in Italian, Pizza, Seafood, Wine