A new pizza place in Camden
Paolina’s Way (10 Bayview Landing, 207-230-0555, in the alleyway on your right as you drive down to the Camden public landing) has just opened its doors, bringing crisp crusts, delicious cheese, locally-grown San Marzano tomatoes, and all kinds of specialty meat and fresh vegetables to Camden. These pies, which are Italian-style thanks to chef Stefano Valenti from Sienna, Italy (and also a relative of owner Christina Sidoti), are worth a try, and, speaking for myself, worthy of many repeat visits.
To get a sense of their food philosophy, read their mission statement on their website. In sum, everything from the salt to the napkins, the decorations to the future solar hot water system, is as eco-friendly as the food is delicious.
Some may complain about the prices. A special pizza can set you back $22. Meat Lasagna, $19. Maine brews, $4. Gelato (which is made at John’s in Liberty) from their adorable outdoor stand, $6. But you get what you pay for: they use all fresh, sustainable, local ingredients (with a few exceptions that they note on the menu — olive oil, organic balsamic vinegar, sugar, and organic wines). The result is a savory, flavorful experience that will please any pizza-craving diner.
If pizza isn’t your thing, they have antipasto plates, including salami from Smith Log Smokehouse in Monroe and aged cheddar from Sonnental Dairy in Smyrna. Plus they offer a special pasta dish or two every night, along with homemade desserts like Tiramisu or blueberry cannoli. Or just have a glass of wine and some homemade bread while enjoying the European-style outdoor tables. It's the perfect casual spot for everything from a family dinner to a girls' night out. And don't forget that you can call ahead and take it home!
*Camdenites will be happy to know that Sidoti hopes to be open year-round with a brief respite in February and March. The restaurant may expand up a level to the storefront space on Bayview Street. *
Posted on Wednesday, July 23, 2008 in Permalink
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Reader Comments:
Always looking for great pizza. Thanks for the heads up.
Paolina's Way. Knowing Christina Sidoti's flair for perfection, the only question I have is whether the best Pizza will be coming from Camden or Rome. Full disclosure...I am in Cuernavaca, Mexico presently and have dined at Christina's home several wonderful times. The key ingredients of love and a deep joy in serving others infused all the food. This cooking secret is one of the few mixtures better than basil, garlic and fresh sweet tomatoes. My mouth waters to try new delights in Camden. Jonathan Granoff
We liked this restaurant and agree it's a great addition to Camden and particularly like how the owners have made use of the back alley. Hope the lighting softens a bit as the season progresses — it seemed starkly BRIGHT throughout the restaurant for a Friday evening at 8 when we dined there last week. No complaints other than the lighting, though....