op-ed
If you've ever been to Italy, you probably experience that same nostalgic pang that I do, when passing by (or walking into) La Zingara. Just as quaint and picturesque as Bethel Village itself, La Zingara looks like a transplant right out of Tuscany. And the subtle aromas wafting through the doors do their part as well, providing promising hints of what's inside.
Although it's always abuzz when we eat there, I do worry now and then about my favorite businesses staying afloat in this economy. So, I was pretty excited when I heard that zoning had finally been approved for an expansion and rooftop veranda. Yes, a veranda. On the roof. Now we'll really be in Italy, in Bethel.
In addition to "doing Italy" so well, La Zingarella made Zagat's top "1,000 Italian restaurants in America" list, no easy task when you consider the number of places they competed with for that slot. One of the key reasons for the restaurant's success is that they maintain their own farm. Ingredients are hand picked by restaurant staff. How many establishments can say that?
