Alta Strada - Foxwoods, CT

Tonight we celebrated my son’s 30th birthday at Alta Strada, a great spot with a cool vibe and an open kitchen that lets you watch the whole operation in motion. There’s something about seeing the cooks working the line that adds another layer to the experience. It feels lively, energetic, and authentic. We started with a variety of appetizers because, honestly, everything on the menu sounded amazing. First came the bread service with two olive oils. The bread was light and airy, with just enough chew, and it soaked up the oil and sauce like it knew exactly what its job was. Next up were the meatballs, served in a rich tomato sauce with ricotta and shaved Parmigiano. The meatballs had a unique flavor thanks to the sausage mixed into the blend. They were tender, savory, and deeply satisf

For a pretty pricey Italian restaurant - the food quality and service does not hit the mark. 1) the restaurant was overwhelmed with late night diners from what appeared to be a dance competition at the conference center — that be said maybe service isn’t as bad usually . It took over 30 mins once we were seated for the waitress to get to our table (again they were overwhelmed), not once but twice did they attempt to serve us another tables meals 2) I have eaten at numerous upscale Italian restaurants not only at other casinos but also in Bostons North end — I expect it’s going to be pricey … but I don’t expect literally Olive Garden like food or even something like I could make at home. My bolognese literally tastes like something someone whipped up at home (and not in a good way).

Food was great amount and everything was good. Dinner date night and it was a nice quiet night.

The waitress & front of house are great. We had a party of 6, spent over 2-1/2 there mostly waiting on the food. On a dead Wednesday, they ran out of the Veal, (most expensive menus item!) the Pork Chops were great. Everything else was awful. Pasta was made right as the order hit the kitchen, and by the time all the food came out, the pasta dish had a burnt crust from being in a plate warmer for so long. My wife’s bolognese tasted like the guys salmon next to us for some reason. Honestly we spent almost 750 dollars and got absolute terrible quality. We were expecting better for being less busy, but not a chance. Don’t order the calamari, it hit my stomach like a rock. In fact If you cook at home, chances are that you make a better meal. Will not return.

Booked a reservation for a Thursday night in February to celebrate my partner's birthday. The restaurant was actually very quiet, only a few tables, and we had amazing service. The bread was honestly just OK but the penne alla vodka was amazing. I wrote in my reservation that it was my partner's birthday but that he doesn't like public attention, and when we had finished eating I was convinced they decided not to do anything (which would have been fine!!) but then the server very, very quietly came over with a bowl of ice cream and a lit candle and said, "happy birthday" and walked away. It was the kindest act and it really made an impression on me. We'll definitely eat here again next time we're at Foxwoods! This review was made in connection with a Toast promotion.