http://www.ik-ny.com
698 Saw Mill River Rd Ardsley, NY 10502 (914) 693-5400

I agree. On my third visit, I realized that the service is just not great. I attributed it to new restaurant/staff as well, but this excuse is getting old. Also, I brought a blueberry pannacotta home, and by the time that I got there (less than 10 minutes) it was a container of watery (albeit tasty) mush. Definitely stronger appetizers, pizzas, and entrees than desserts....

I hesitate to post my first impression of Italian Kitchen, because I don't want to create a firestorm, thus , preventing me from ever getting a reservation! This 50-seater little nook is located in the space formerly occupied by Giuseppe's (which I never liked). I have always been faithful to The Cookery, which is my all time favorite Italian. I think that I may be falling in love, though...
Chef Shea Gallante is a genius. His dishes are simple, fresh, and with a unique twist. I had the gazpacho, which was out of this world. Basil oil, fresh vegetables, and watermelon (the twist) sit at the bottom of a simple white bowl, while, at the table, the most gorgeous colored yellow tomato nectar is poured over it.
I, typically, do not order (boring) chicken when I go out to eat, but felt compelled to try the "Mattone". I think that the translation of this is: "friggin' delicious". Perfectly cooked moist chicken, with a light farro, escarole, mushroom "sauce" (more like a warm whole grain salad, which I could have eaten as is).
Even the simple salad tasted better than any that I have ever had. How is it possible to make lettuce taste phenomenal?
Oh, Chef DiBari, Chef Gallante is going to give you some sleepless nights.....

Ed's wins this contest, hands down. He has perfected the lobster to mayo ratio, and gets the whole "butter the bun" concept that many fancy lobster roll creators neglect. The homemade pickles that come on the side are mouth-puckeringly vinegary, and superb.