Although the food was very attractively presented at Appetito, it is not one of our favorite spots. The restaurant is somewhat uncomfortable. The tables are close together, the wooden chairs and banquettes are hard, and the general atmosphere is not relaxing. The decor is Northern Italian with the corresponding colors and a painted mural on the wall. There are two dining sections, one that also houses a bar. The menu is varied with a large selection of pastas along with some meat and fish dishes, as well as salads. There are nightly specials to add to the standard menu. Meals are served on oversized plates or in very large bowls. The restaurant makes excellent use of garnishes and each meal looks pleasing. The duck, for instance, was served upright with large elongated potato chips beside it that looked like wings. The portion size of many entrees could provide the diner with a second "doggy bag" meal.

*The menu below is part of the take out menu, but it is representative of the meals offered.

RESTAURANT:	APPETITO
ADDRESS:	761 Beacon Street, Newton, MA
DATE:	May 21, 2001
MEAL:	Dinner
BREAD:
SALAD:
APPETIZER:
ENTREE:	Anitro ($16.95) Pretty Good - "Slow roasted honey glazed duck, fresh apple, cherry, balsamic sauce with fresh basil, herb mashed potatoes and a little squirt of mango puree." The duck was crispy and not the least bit greasy. The mashed potatoes were dry and not impressive. The presentation was lovely, however!
	Salmon (nightly special)($14.95?) Very Good
DESSERT:	Chaos Pie - a reasonable sized piece of rich and excellent pie. A bit like a Snickers Pie.
OTHER:	Parking on the street and in a nearby lot
	Brunch served Saturday and Sunday
	Full menu available for take out
	Full service catering available
	Service is very good
OVERALL:	B