Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen in Pawling offers a delightful culinary journey that combines traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist. Nestled in the heart of Pawling, this restaurant has quickly become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, thanks to its warm atmosphere, attentive service, and an extensive menu that caters to all palates.
Whether you’re craving classic pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, or fresh seafood, Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen presents an authentic experience that celebrates Italy’s rich gastronomic heritage. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring a memorable dining experience every time.
From hearty appetizers to indulgent desserts, the menu is designed to showcase the diversity of Italian cuisine. The chefs’ dedication to preserving traditional flavors while incorporating contemporary culinary techniques results in dishes that are both comforting and innovative.
With a focus on seasonal produce and local sourcing, the menu changes subtly to reflect the freshest ingredients available. This commitment to quality and authenticity makes Gaudino’s a standout destination for those seeking genuine Italian fare in a cozy and inviting setting.
Whether you are planning a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or a casual lunch, Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen in Pawling offers a versatile menu and a welcoming ambiance that invites you to savor every bite.
The following sections explore the various components of their menu, highlighting signature dishes, chef recommendations, and the unique touches that make this restaurant a culinary gem.
Antipasti: The Perfect Beginning
The antipasti section at Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen serves as an inviting introduction to the meal, offering a variety of small plates that awaken the palate. These starters reflect the rich tradition of Italian appetizers, designed to be shared and enjoyed with a glass of wine or a sparkling aperitivo.
The menu features both classic and inventive options, ranging from simple bruschetta to more elaborate seafood antipasti. Every dish is crafted with fresh ingredients, often incorporating local produce and artisanal cheeses.
This approach not only honors Italian culinary roots but also adds a unique regional flair to the offerings.
Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or rich and savory, the antipasti menu at Gaudino’s provides choices that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.
Signature Starters
- Bruschetta al Pomodoro: Toasted Italian bread topped with marinated heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly breaded and fried squid served with a tangy marinara sauce and lemon wedges.
- Prosciutto e Melone: Thinly sliced aged prosciutto paired with fresh, sweet cantaloupe melon, a classic Italian combination.
- Arancini Siciliani: Crispy risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella and peas, served with a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
“Antipasti is not just the start of a meal, but the first chapter of an Italian story told through flavors and textures.” – Gaudino’s Executive Chef
Pasta Selections: Tradition Meets Innovation
At the heart of Gaudino’s menu lies an impressive array of pasta dishes, showcasing Italy’s beloved culinary staple in both traditional and contemporary forms. Each pasta is handmade or sourced from trusted Italian artisans to ensure authenticity.
The pasta dishes vary from rich, meaty ragùs to light, vegetable-forward plates, providing options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. The kitchen emphasizes balanced flavors, using fresh herbs, slow-cooked sauces, and quality cheeses to enhance every bite.
Seasonal specials often feature unique combinations that highlight the best produce, keeping the pasta menu dynamic and exciting throughout the year.
Popular Pasta Offerings
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Description |
| Tagliatelle al Ragu Bolognese | Fresh tagliatelle, slow-cooked beef and pork ragù, Parmigiano-Reggiano | A rich and hearty meat sauce simmered for hours, served over tender ribbons of pasta. |
| Spaghetti Aglio e Olio | Spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, red chili flakes, parsley | A simple yet flavorful dish highlighting the beauty of classic Italian ingredients. |
| Gnocchi al Pesto Genovese | Potato gnocchi, fresh basil pesto, pine nuts, Parmigiano | Soft potato dumplings tossed in an aromatic basil and pine nut sauce. |
| Lasagna alla Norma | Layers of pasta, ricotta, fried eggplant, marinara sauce, mozzarella | A Sicilian-inspired twist on lasagna with the addition of savory eggplant. |
Tip: Pair your pasta with a glass of Chianti or a crisp Pinot Grigio for a truly authentic Italian dining experience.
Wood-Fired Pizzas: Crispy, Flavorful Perfection
Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen takes pride in its wood-fired pizzas, baking each pie to perfection in a traditional stone oven. This method creates a characteristic crispy crust with a slightly smoky aroma, elevating the pizza beyond the ordinary.
The pizza selection ranges from time-honored classics to inventive creations that incorporate seasonal ingredients and gourmet toppings. Each pizza is made with hand-stretched dough and topped with house-made tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available, ensuring that all guests can enjoy this beloved Italian dish.
Featured Pizzas
- Margherita: San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra virgin olive oil.
- Quattro Formaggi: A blend of mozzarella, gorgonzola, fontina, and parmesan cheeses.
- Prosciutto e Rucola: Thinly sliced prosciutto, fresh arugula, shaved parmesan, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Funghi e Tartufo: Wild mushrooms, truffle oil, mozzarella, and fresh thyme.
“Our wood-fired oven is the heart of the kitchen, where each pizza is crafted with passion and precision.” – Gaudino’s Head Pizzaiolo
Entrees: Hearty and Satisfying Italian Classics
Beyond pasta and pizza, Gaudino’s offers a selection of entrees that highlight various regional Italian specialties. These dishes are perfect for diners seeking a more substantial meal, often featuring premium cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and robust sauces.
The chefs focus on traditional preparation methods, slow cooking, and balancing rich flavors with fresh accompaniments. Many entrees spotlight seasonal vegetables and house-made sides to complement the main protein.
With options for both meat-eaters and pescatarians, the entree menu reflects Italy’s diverse culinary landscape.
Noteworthy Entrees
| Dish | Description | Price |
| Osso Buco alla Milanese | Braised veal shank cooked with vegetables, white wine, and gremolata, served over saffron risotto. | $32 |
| Pollo alla Cacciatora | Hunter-style chicken braised with tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and herbs. | $26 |
| Branzino al Limone | Whole Mediterranean sea bass roasted with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs. | $29 |
| Saltimbocca alla Romana | Veal scaloppine topped with prosciutto and sage, cooked in a white wine sauce. | $30 |
Pro Tip: These entrees pair wonderfully with robust red wines like Barolo or a crisp Vermentino for seafood dishes.
Salads and Sides: Fresh and Flavorful Complements
To round out the dining experience, Gaudino’s offers a variety of salads and side dishes designed to complement the main courses. These lighter options provide fresh, vibrant flavors that balance the richness of pasta and entrees.
The salads feature seasonal greens, house-made dressings, and Italian-inspired ingredients like olives, artichokes, and shaved cheeses. Sides include classic Italian staples prepared with care, delivering both comfort and authenticity.
These dishes are perfect for those seeking a lighter meal or as an accompaniment to share at the table.
Salads
- Insalata Caprese: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic reduction.
- Caesar Salad: Romaine lettuce, garlic croutons, shaved parmesan, and classic Caesar dressing.
- Arugula e Pera: Peppery arugula, sliced pears, walnuts, gorgonzola, and a honey vinaigrette.
Sides
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
- Risotto al Parmigiano
- Sautéed Spinach with Garlic
“Our salads and sides are crafted to enhance the main dishes, offering freshness and balance to every meal.” – Gaudino’s Kitchen Manager
Desserts: Sweet Endings to a Memorable Meal
Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen concludes the dining experience with a tempting selection of desserts that capture the essence of Italian dolce tradition. Each dessert is made in-house, emphasizing quality ingredients and authentic recipes.
From creamy tiramisu to rich chocolate treats, the dessert menu offers indulgent options for every sweet tooth. Seasonal fruit-based desserts also provide a lighter alternative, incorporating fresh flavors and delicate textures.
Pairing desserts with a dessert wine or espresso is highly recommended to fully appreciate the nuanced flavors of each sweet creation.
Popular Desserts
| Dessert | Description | Price |
| Tiramisu Tradizionale | Layered espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream and dusted cocoa powder. | $9 |
| Panna Cotta al Limoncello | Creamy lemon-flavored panna cotta topped with fresh berries and a limoncello drizzle. | $8 |
| Gelato Misto | Assorted flavors of Italian gelato served with biscotti cookies. | $7 |
| Chocolate Hazelnut Torte | Rich flourless chocolate cake with toasted hazelnuts and whipped cream. | $10 |
Suggestion: Complement your dessert with a shot of rich Italian espresso or a glass of Vin Santo, a classic Tuscan dessert wine.
Beverages: Complementing Every Course
The beverage menu at Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen is thoughtfully curated to enhance the flavors of each dish. Featuring a selection of Italian wines, craft cocktails, and non-alcoholic options, it caters to diverse preferences and occasions.
Wine lovers will find a well-rounded list, including reds, whites, and sparkling varieties sourced from renowned Italian regions. The bar team also crafts signature cocktails inspired by Italian classics, perfect for aperitivo or post-dinner enjoyment.
Non-alcoholic drinks include Italian sodas, fresh juices, and specialty coffee drinks, ensuring every guest has something to sip on.
Wine Highlights
- Barolo DOCG: A robust red wine from Piedmont, ideal with red meat and hearty pasta.
- Pinot Grigio: A crisp, refreshing white perfect for seafood and light appetizers.
- Prosecco: Sparkling and bright, great for celebrations and lighter fare.
- Chianti Classico: Medium-bodied red that pairs well with tomato-based dishes and pizza.
Cocktail Favorites
- Aperol Spritz: Aperol, prosecco, soda water, fresh orange slice.
- Negroni: Gin, Campari, sweet vermouth – a classic Italian aperitivo.
- Espresso Martini: Vodka, fresh espresso, coffee liqueur – perfect after dinner.
“A thoughtfully paired drink can elevate the dining experience, bringing out the best in every dish.” – Gaudino’s Sommelier
Conclusion
Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen in Pawling offers a rich and varied menu that masterfully balances tradition with innovation. Every section of the menu—from the enticing antipasti to the decadent desserts—reflects a deep respect for authentic Italian culinary practices alongside a commitment to freshness and quality.
The thoughtful ingredient sourcing, expert preparation, and welcoming atmosphere combine to create a dining experience that feels both special and approachable.
Whether indulging in a wood-fired pizza, savoring a house-made pasta, or exploring the seasonal entree options, guests are treated to dishes that tell a story of Italy’s diverse regional flavors. The beverage program further enhances this journey, with expertly selected wines and handcrafted cocktails designed to complement and elevate each course.
Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen is not just a restaurant but a destination where every meal is an opportunity to celebrate the joy of Italian cuisine in a warm, inviting environment. For those in Pawling seeking a genuine taste of Italy paired with outstanding hospitality, Gaudino’s Italian Kitchen stands as an exceptional choice.
