If I could only eat one type of cuisine for the rest of my life, Italian might be the one. And if there’s one place that knows Italian cuisine, it’s Little Anthony’s (121 Richmond St. W.).

On Wednesday, media foodies were invited to Little Anthony’s to taste menu items created by new executive chef Garth Legree (formerly of Splendido and, most recently, The County General) and chat with owner Andreas Antoniou (who also owns upscale Greek seafood restaurant Estiatorio Volos across the street). Antoniou and Legree are focused on bringing LA’s back to the basics of Italian cuisine and serving quality dishes and ingredients, with all pastas made fresh in-house.

The night included 10 dishes divided into three courses; the canapés paired with a Milano Sunrise (LA’s signature, summery cocktail of vermouth, campari, soda, and grapefruit juice) while the starters and mains were each paired with an Italian wine from general manager Matt Roulston’s well-curated list.

I was impressed with the presentation and flavour of each dish, but my favourites were Pan Seared Scallop with grilled radicchio, marjoram and garlic vinaigrette, and smoked bacon; Filetto di Branzino (Mediterranean sea bass) with white beans, lemon al burro, P.E.I. mussels, braised fennel, and orange; and Flat Iron Steak with potato gnocchi, roasted mushrooms, thyme, and peppercorn sauce. (Flat iron also happens to be my favourite steak and if you haven’t tried it, please do so. It’s tender, flavourful, and very delicious.) Oh, and the tiramisu? So. Good.

If you’re looking for affordable Italian food done right, LA’s is your place!