Fratelli’s Trattoria is a cozy Italian restaurant and bar in Monona that feels like it’s been around for decades, even though it opened a few years ago (in the former Angelo’s space).
A large selection of pasta dishes highlights the menu. In fact, there are three versions of squid ink pasta. The putanesca con gambery ($24) was busy with grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, shrimp and little bits of anchovy for some saltiness in a somewhat spicy tomato sauce. I would have preferred much more shrimp and anchovies but still thought highly of it.
Meanwhile, the Fratelli’s pasta ($24) was mostly enjoyable. I liked the flavorful mix of onions, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, wild mushrooms and Madeira wine porcini tomato cream sauce, but the diced beef tenderloin was overcooked and tough to eat.
I also want to point out that Fratelli’s has mastered the classic spaghetti and meatballs ($18). The pasta was fresh, the meatballs were huge, and this dish will meet your comfort needs.
The terra/pesce portion of the menu has several variations of roasted chicken. I tried the pollo arrostro ($24) and found the chicken to be moist and tender, though it caused our meal to be served 40 min. after ordering, our server explained after the fact. It comes with a tasty rosemary white wine sauce, Brussels sprouts and mashed potatoes.
Other items from this section include grilled rack of lamb ($35), eggplant parmesan ($22) and pan-roasted walleye with scallops and clams ($32).
Among the appetizers, the garlic bread ($15) was essentially a cheese pizza without sauce and a nice way to start your meal. I also liked the calamari fritti ($16) along with its outstanding spicy marinara sauce.
Fratelli’s Trattoria serves dinner every day.
