Welcome to Gaetano’s, where tradition meets flavor in every bite. Our lunch menu showcases an eclectic mix of authentic Italian dishes, crafted with fresh ingredients and a passion for culinary excellence. Whether you’re craving a light salad or a hearty pasta dish, our menu promises to satisfy all tastes.
“A great meal is not just about food; it’s about creating memories one dish at a time.” – Gaetano
Appetizers
Begin your lunch experience with our selection of appetizers. Each starter is designed to awaken your palate and prepare you for the main course.
From crispy fried calamari to our signature bruschetta, these dishes bring a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bruschetta al Pomodoro | Grilled Italian bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. | $7.95 |
| Calamari Fritti | Lightly battered and fried squid rings served with a tangy marinara sauce. | $9.95 |
| Caprese Salad | Fresh mozzarella slices, ripe tomatoes, basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze. | $8.50 |
| Stuffed Mushrooms | Button mushrooms filled with herbed breadcrumbs, garlic, and parmesan cheese. | $8.75 |
| Antipasto Platter | A selection of Italian cured meats, cheeses, olives, and roasted vegetables. | $12.50 |
Soups & Salads
Our soups and salads are crafted to provide fresh, wholesome flavors. Each bowl and plate is a reflection of traditional Italian recipes, made with garden-fresh produce and quality ingredients.
Perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Minestrone Soup | A hearty vegetable soup with beans, pasta, and a rich tomato broth. | $6.50 |
| Zuppa Toscana | Spicy Italian sausage, potatoes, kale, and cream in a savory broth. | $7.00 |
| Caesar Salad | Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese. | $8.25 |
| Insalata Mista | Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and Italian vinaigrette. | $7.50 |
| Spinach & Arugula Salad | Fresh spinach and arugula with goat cheese, walnuts, and a balsamic reduction. | $9.00 |
Pastas
At the heart of Italian cuisine is pasta, and Gaetano’s menu offers an array of classic and innovative pasta dishes. Each plate is handmade or carefully selected to ensure authenticity and exceptional taste.
Our sauces range from rich and creamy to light and tangy, catering to every preference.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti Carbonara | Spaghetti tossed with pancetta, eggs, parmesan, and black pepper for a creamy finish. | $14.95 |
| Fettuccine Alfredo | Rich and creamy Alfredo sauce over fresh fettuccine pasta, garnished with parsley. | $15.50 |
| Lasagna al Forno | Layers of pasta, meat sauce, béchamel, ricotta, and mozzarella baked to perfection. | $16.95 |
| Penne Arrabbiata | Penne pasta in a spicy tomato sauce with garlic, chili flakes, and fresh basil. | $13.95 |
| Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci | Homemade ravioli stuffed with ricotta cheese and spinach, served in sage butter sauce. | $17.50 |
| Seafood Linguine | Linguine pasta tossed with shrimp, clams, mussels, and calamari in a garlic tomato sauce. | $19.95 |
Entrées
For those seeking a more substantial meal, our entrées provide a variety of expertly prepared dishes featuring meats, seafood, and vegetarian options. Each entrée is paired with complementary sides and prepared with traditional Italian flair.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Parmesan | Breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, served with spaghetti. | $18.95 |
| Veal Marsala | Sauteed veal medallions in a rich Marsala wine and mushroom sauce, served with roasted potatoes. | $22.50 |
| Eggplant Rollatini | Thin slices of eggplant rolled with ricotta and spinach, baked with marinara and mozzarella. | $16.75 |
| Grilled Salmon al Limone | Fresh salmon fillet grilled and finished with a zesty lemon butter sauce, served with seasonal vegetables. | $21.95 |
| Osso Buco | Slow-braised veal shank in a savory tomato and vegetable sauce, served with saffron risotto. | $24.95 |
Sandwiches & Paninis
For a lighter but flavorful option, explore our selection of sandwiches and paninis. Made with freshly baked Italian bread and premium fillings, these are perfect for a quick yet satisfying lunch.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Classic Panini | Prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic on ciabatta bread. | $11.95 |
| Meatball Sub | Homemade meatballs simmered in marinara sauce, topped with melted provolone cheese on a hoagie roll. | $12.50 |
| Caprese Sandwich | Fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, basil, and pesto mayo on toasted focaccia bread. | $10.95 |
| Grilled Veggie Panini | Grilled zucchini, eggplant, roasted red peppers, and goat cheese pressed on multigrain bread. | $11.50 |
| Chicken Pesto Panini | Grilled chicken breast, pesto spread, sun-dried tomatoes, and provolone cheese on ciabatta. | $12.95 |
Sides & Extras
Complement your meal with a selection of traditional Italian sides. These dishes are perfect for sharing or adding extra flavor and variety to your lunch.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Oven-toasted Italian bread brushed with garlic butter and herbs. | $4.50 |
| Roasted Vegetables | Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary. | $6.00 |
| Parmesan Risotto | Creamy Arborio rice cooked with parmesan cheese and white wine. | $7.25 |
| Polenta Fries | Crispy fried polenta sticks served with a spicy aioli. | $5.50 |
| Mixed Olives | A medley of marinated Italian olives with herbs and citrus zest. | $4.75 |
Desserts
No Italian meal is complete without a sweet finish. Gaetano’s dessert menu offers classic treats made fresh daily.
Indulge in traditional favorites or try our chef’s specials for a memorable ending to your lunch.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tiramisu | Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder. | $7.50 |
| Panna Cotta | A silky smooth cooked cream dessert served with fresh berry coulis. | $6.95 |
| Cannoli Siciliani | Crispy pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips. | $6.75 |
| Gelato Trio | Three scoops of artisan Italian gelato in your choice of flavors. | $8.00 |
| Affogato al Caffè | Vanilla gelato “drowned” in a shot of hot espresso coffee. | $6.50 |
Beverages
Enhance your lunch with our curated beverage list featuring Italian classics and refreshing options. From sparkling water to freshly brewed espresso, we offer drinks to perfectly complement your meal.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso | Rich and concentrated Italian coffee served in a small cup. | $3.00 |
| Cappuccino | Espresso topped with steamed milk foam. | $4.00 |
| Italian Soda | Refreshing carbonated water infused with fruit syrup. | $3.50 |
| Lemonade | Freshly squeezed lemons with a hint of sweetness. | $3.25 |
| San Pellegrino Sparkling Water | Natural sparkling mineral water from Italy. | $4.50 |
Note: All dishes are prepared fresh to order. Please inform your server of any allergies or dietary restrictions.
About Gaetano’s
Gaetano’s is more than just a restaurant; it is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage. Founded by Chef Gaetano Romano, who hails from Naples, our eatery brings the warmth, authenticity, and vibrant flavors of Italy to your table.
Each recipe is a homage to generations of Italian cooks who understood that food is love shared.
Our commitment to quality ingredients, from locally sourced produce to imported Italian cheeses and meats, guarantees a lunch experience that is both delicious and genuine. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a returning friend, we invite you to savor the rich tastes of Italy with every bite.
Lunch Specials
To make your midday meal even more delightful, Gaetano’s offers daily lunch specials which feature seasonal ingredients and chef’s inspirations. These specials are available from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM and provide great value without compromising on quality.
| Day | Special | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Lasagna Verde | Spinach pasta layered with ricotta, béchamel, and meat sauce. | $15.95 |
| Tuesday | Chicken Piccata | Lightly breaded chicken breast in lemon-caper sauce, served with pasta. | $16.50 |
| Wednesday | Seafood Risotto | Arborio rice cooked with shrimp, scallops, and clams in a saffron broth. | $18.95 |
| Thursday | Eggplant Parmesan | Baked eggplant slices with marinara and mozzarella, served with spaghetti. | $14.95 |
| Friday | Veal Piccata | Veal medallions sautéed with lemon, butter, and capers, served with vegetables. | $21.50 |
Gluten-Free & Vegetarian Options
We understand the importance of catering to diverse dietary needs. Gaetano’s proudly offers a variety of gluten-free and vegetarian options clearly marked on our menu to help you make an informed choice.
Gluten-Free: Most of our salads and seafood dishes are naturally gluten-free. Additionally, we offer gluten-free pasta upon request for most pasta entrées.
Vegetarian: From our fresh garden salads to eggplant rollatini and various pasta dishes, vegetarians will find plenty of delicious choices to enjoy.
Customer Favorites
Over the years, certain dishes have become beloved by our patrons. Here are a few that our guests recommend time and again:
- Spaghetti Carbonara – The perfect marriage of creamy sauce and crispy pancetta.
- Chicken Parmesan – A hearty classic with rich flavors and crunchy textures.
- Seafood Linguine – A celebration of the freshest catch from the Mediterranean.
- Tiramisu – The quintessential Italian dessert that melts in your mouth.
“Gaetano’s lunch menu is a true representation of Italy’s passion for food. Each bite transports you to the streets of Naples.” – Maria L., longtime guest
Ordering Information
Gaetano’s offers both dine-in and takeout services for lunch. Our friendly staff is ready to assist with any special requests or dietary concerns.
We also encourage you to explore our wine list to complement your meal.
Reservations are recommended during peak lunch hours, especially for groups. To place an order or make a reservation, please call us at (555) 123-4567 or visit our website.
Conclusion
Gaetano’s lunch menu is crafted with care, passion, and a deep respect for Italian culinary traditions. Whether you’re enjoying our handcrafted pastas, flavorful entrées, or delectable desserts, every dish is an invitation to savor the true taste of Italy.
We look forward to welcoming you and providing a memorable dining experience that delights your senses and warms your heart.
