REVIEW
Joe Bologna's Trattoria has been a staple in Sterling Heights since 1985. Located at 2135 17 Mile Rd on the NE corner of 17 Mile and DeQuindre Rds, it has always been an inviting place with a warm friendly Old World atmosphere. Joe B's is known for it's good food and innovative fresh menu. If you're looking for a nice quiet evening out with your loved one, you can't do much better than Joe's. The decor is impeccably adorned with elegance in the smallest of details. The Bologna team of chefs and wait staff led by Joe, his wife Adele and their son Daniel in Rochester are always professional and accommodating. Always looking to elevate their restaurants to the next level, Joe, Adele and Danny strive to make your dining experience the best it can be. The menu is fresh, seasonal and vibrant. Their specials are a welcome addition to many traditional Italian favorites. Some of the old time recipes were handed down from Joe's Grandmother (Nonna) and have stayed true to form over the years.
I stopped in for lunch today and had the Caesar Salad, Eggplant Parm on a bed of angel hair pasta and two meatballs. They start you off with a large loaf of warm homemade Italian bread in a paper bag with flavored Olive Oil for dipping. The salad was fresh with crunchy croutons, Parmesan shavings and a nice Caesar dressing. A+ on the salad. The meatballs are Nonna's old recipe and were big. They were also fork tender with just the right balance of herbs and seasoning. (You can really taste the garlic and herbs).
I was craving meatball sliders, but knew that I might have to improvise because they weren't available at the Sterling Heights location. I converted my meatballs and bread into sliders, which they offer at their two other locations (334 S. Main St., Rochester Hills and 7071 Dixie Hwy in Clarkston). Like I said, improvising wasn't a problem. The bread they give you has a nice crust on the outside and is warm and billowy on the inside. A good combination to make a make-shift meatball slider. The sauce is a tomato basil sauce, which was light yet satisfying. It was nicely balanced with the right amount of sweetness and acidity.
My lunch was enhanced when Adele came by to say hello, which is something she's done since the first day I walked through their doors. She always goes out of her way to make me feel welcome. This time she joined me for lunch, which was an added treat. This is a personality trait of all of the Bologna's no matter which location I visit. Whether it's Joe, Adele or Danny, they always greet you with a smile and a friendly word to make you feel right at home. I've been visiting Bologna's for eleven years and have never felt like 'just another customer.'
They make a variety of other sauces to compliment whatever dish you order. Several chicken, veal and fish entrees are available, so you're bound to find something you'll like. They have a flat iron steak, but don't forget to ask if they offer a steak special that day. Their 'Create Your Own Pasta' menu allows you to compose your own pasta and sauce combination. Many pizza selections are available along with classic desserts like Cannoli, Tiramisu, Spumoni and Brule. The apps are tantalizing and sometimes it's difficult to choose between them. Since the menu is always updated, the ingredients used have to be fresh. For example; they only buy fresh pasta or make their own. No dried pasta here. You can notice the difference quality ingredients makes.
One more note of interest is that each location will offer a diverse choice in menu items, which is influenced by it's local area. These are not cookie cutter restaurants. They all have the Bologna name, but their personalities are as different as brothers and sisters. The Sterling Heights location is romantically charming and quiet. A place where one can relax, unwind or have an intimate moment. One night a week you'll hear a soft, live Italian guitar musician playing in the background to highlight your dinning event.
The Clarkston location is quaint and rustic. It has been called, "Clarkston's best kept secret." It's menu is modern and very creative. Try the Eggplant Rollitini. It's on the app menu, but it's a meal in itself. It's my favorite. The Rochester location has an urban street appeal with a spirited atmosphere. The front of the restaurant projects a lively vibe, while the back half is quiet and serene to provide a more conversational atmosphere. It seems that the Bologna's have succeeded in creating a ambience for every mood and occasion.
The Sterling Heights location is adept at hosting retirement parties, rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions and other celebrations. Call ahead and inquire if your favorite dish is available at that time. Keep in mind that the menu is seasonal and ever-changing. The classics will always be available, but new items will be introduced at each location to keep things innovative. I highly recommend trying any of the Bologna restaurants.
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