Palermo Italian Restaurant

Palermo isn’t a restaurant. It’s an institution. It’s where you take your family when they come to town. It’s where you take your crush on a first date. It’s where you go when you’re hungry for affordable, no-nonsense Italian food, cheap house wine in large carafes and a festive, bustling environment. Murals of the old country grace the walls, white Christmas lights sparkle, candles in red glass twinkle and cozy booths overflow with large groups. Entrees can be had in “small” and “full” portions, with “small” clearly a euphemism for “large” and “Full” for “super-sized.” Expect to wait if you come during prime dinner hours but laughing at the many dated head shots on the walls by the cash register will help you pass the time. When your name is finally called you’ll usually be shown to your table by the garrulous owner Tony who always yells, “Pizza Time!” before leading you to your table. If you’re lucky a tiny, wizened accordion player will be making his way around the restaurant playing spirited favorites. The huge menu covers everything from pastas and sandwiches to soups and salads. People can’t get enough of the pizza, which is served on a stand at your table. The crust is crisp and thin, the sauce full and rich and the topping choices vast and meaty.

 TIPS: If you find yourself on the waiting list be sure to ask for a glass of the boxed wine they keep behind the counter. Sometimes you’ll get it for free and sometimes you’ll pay a buck, either way it’s a steal. If you still need a drink after you eat head to neighboring Ye Rustic Inn or the Dresden Room.