thanks for Modo Mio (Philly)

[sylviag]

Thanks to all you Philly chowhounds who recommended Modo Mio. We finally got there last weekend, and it was worthy of all the praise! Thanks especially to joluvscards, who kept promoting it.

Yes, it is small and noisy - but wow, what an incredible dinner!

First the thick, crusty bread served with lemon-scented(?) oil with a hunk of ricotta cheese in the middle - hard to keep from filling up on that.

We each had the tourista menu, $33 for four courses. I had pictured Modo Mio as another Italian restaurant but with better preparations or ingredients. This menu was filled with appetizing choices, creatively prepared.

I started with one of the day''s specials, an artichoke crispy on the outside and firm and succulent inside, stuffed with a creamy cheese. Heavenly. My husband had the duck liver wrapped in bacon; I don't remember the accompaniments.

Our pasta course was equally excellent, his with seafood, mine was ravioli stuffed with beet, veal (?), and something else. Our next course - again, wonderful. I had the "liveraci", duck livers in a marvelous sauce; he had the sweetbreads, which he loved.

We managed to stuff in dessert, even though I was full by then. Good choices, though not as memorable as the other courses.

Service was excellent throughout.

It's BYOB and cash only. Very popular - understandably - so reserve ahead. What a treasure!

[sylviag]

Just wanted to add that there is outdoor seating in good weather. Nice and quiet.
Actually, the noise level wasn't worse than in most other places these days.

[brownsavvy]

We just returned from a sumptuous meal at Modo Mio and it's very worth the trip! The waiter was almost apologetic that their portion sizes were modest, yet due to the wonderful flavoring and the balance of carbohydrates, fats and vegetables, it was the perfect serving sizes. The pasta is light-a wonderful juxtaposition to the rich and ample sauces. We enjoyed the menu creativity, i.e. the lasgna with marshmallow enfused sauce, the lovely starters, and the complimentary digestive. The chef made the rounds and charmingly took an interest in our table (with a toddler) and remembered our names, soliciting after our meal and wishing us a good evening. And a good evening it was! We would definitely enjoy a pleasant meal with them again. Thank you, Modo Mio!