Posted April 4, 2007

Restaurant profile: Cannova’s
By Jim Collar
Post-Crescent staff writer

What it is: Don’t rely on your pre-conceived notions of a pizzeria.

The “fine Italian dining” portion of the name might better describe the elegant, yet welcoming environment of Cannova’s.

An exposed brick wall serves as the background to an antique bar. Exposed ductwork hangs above the diners, yet below an antique pressed metal ceiling. Weekend diners are often treated to a musician behind the restaurant’s baby grand piano.

Debbie Rasmus, who owns the restaurant with her husband, Kyle, said they hoped to create a dining experience to suit just about anyone.

“It’s a very comfortable, inviting atmosphere,” she said. “You’d feel comfortable bringing the kids or just as comfortable if you’re going on a date.”

Families can share in the stand-by pepperoni and sausage pizza, while those searching for new flavors can choose from a list of gourmet specialties. Still, those out for a night on the town have plenty to choose from with a full menu of Italian entrees.

It’s a family business, and it was well established before the Rasmus’ opened their doors in 2005.

Debbie Rasmus’ grandfather, Sicily native Anthony Cannova, began the family restaurant tradition in Freeport, Ill. in 1921. The restaurant takes pride in its family recipes and focuses on the homemade — from breads and crusts to sausage and sauces.

On the menu: Pizza is the main attraction, and Cannova’s provides plenty of flavors to suit both the finicky and the adventurous.

The restaurant has all the traditional toppings. For a new experience, choose from the specialty list, which includes barbecue chicken and the Californian — a pizza topped with broccoli, chicken breast, fresh garlic and Colby cheese.

It’s signature pizza, the Cannova’s Classic, features diced tomatoes, fresh garlic, spinach, black olives and sweet basil. Large sizes range from $12 for a cheese pizza to $17.50 the steak and mushroom.

Cannova’s serves a number of pastas with sauces, including Anthony Cannova’s original Alfredo recipe, a Genovese and a tomato basil cream. Light eaters can purchase pastas in a half order. The menu also features lasagna, chicken or veal Piccata and chicken Parmigiana.

Kyle Rasmus recommends the Sicilian filet, which is a beef tenderloin marinated in red wine, olive oil and garlic. At $21.95, the steak is served with garlic mashed potatoes and creamed spinach.

“The secret is starting to get out,” he said. “You can cut it with a spoon sometimes. It’s a fantastic cut of meat.”

Daily specials are also available that stray from the Italian dishes featured on the everyday menu.

Cannova’s beverage menu features an extensive wine list ranging from a $4.50-per-glass house wine to a $12 Simi Cabernet Sauvignon. Wines by the bottle range from $19 to $69. The bar also has a full beer selection and a martini menu.

What to wear: Casual is fine. In fact, come in whatever makes you feel comfortable. Kyle Rasmus said it isn’t uncommon in the summer to see businessmen in jackets and ties seated near boaters in their shorts and T-shirts.

Hours: Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday, from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. until 11 p.m.

Reservations: No, though Cannova’s would like call-ahead notice for larger groups.

Smoking: Not in the restaurant, though smokers can use the patio.