There is something comforting about stepping into a restaurant that doesn’t chase trends, but instead honors tradition.
La Sirena which opened in 1986 in West Palm Beach, Florida, does exactly that.
Tucked away just off South Dixie Highway, this beloved local institution has been serving up classic Italian fare with heart, soul and serious culinary skill for a long time.
From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere wraps around you like a well-worn cashmere sweater. White tablecloths, dark wood, and an attentive, wonderfully old-school staff make you feel like you’ve stepped back into an era when dining out was truly an occasion.
La Sirena is unapologetically classic and that’s its greatest strength.
It’s elegant without being stuffy.
Chef/owner Marcello Florentino creates culinary magic.
Locals come here to celebrate and to remember why they fell in love with Italian food in the first place.
There’s no Instagrammable neon sign, no fusion gimmicks, merely welcoming hospitality and the kind of cooking that speaks for itself.
If you have savored my restaurant reviews over the years you may recall my love for Peppone in Brentwood, California. It was the site of many joyous celebrations and high profile interactions, including the Rolling Stone Huey Lewis and the News cover story.
Kurt Loder asked Huey Lewis who his favorite singer was. Huey jumped up from the table and crooned, My Way. Frank Sinatra who was dining at Peppone that particularly memorable night, strolled over, tapped Huey on the shoulder and said, “Damn good, kid, but I sing it better!”
La Sirena is the east coast Peppone.
I digress.
Allow me to expound upon the delectable virtues of La Sirena.
We commenced our Italian journey by perusing the La Sirena epic wine list. It is a legendary, award-winning, encyclopedic selection of Italian gems and global classics.
Our single glass selections were both outstanding. My Amaro was pricy at $30, but it was an incredible wine. The Super Tuscan was superb at $24. I must say they were both worth the price point.
Our first course was a classic Caesar which we shared. It was perfection…chilled which is mandatory, but rarely done these days, grated parmesan, scrumptious croutons, which I never eat, but these were irresistible ($17).
We ordered a no frills, delectable 1/2 portion Capellini with fresh homemade tomato sauce. The kitchen split it and it was a lovely portion size ($14).
The outstanding Branzino was simply prepared ($46).
The Asparagus in Brown Butter were what you hope asparagus would be…huge, sweet and al dente ($14).
The Veal Chop Milanese looked to be a standout, thin, crispy, served with a bright arugula salad…a next time choice.
The service is attentive and warm.
The portions are plentiful and outstanding.
La Sirena is a reminder that great food never goes out of style.
It’s not flashy. It’s fantastic.
A must-visit for anyone craving classic Italian.
La Sirena 6316 South Dixie Highway West Palm Beach, Florida. Open Monday-Saturday 5:30-9:30pm. Reservations on OpenTable.com. Valet and street parking.
Discover more from If The Devil Had Menopause
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
