So, we've been going to Don Peppe's for many years. I've been growing less and less enthusiastic about the food for some time now. Because the food is always good, never great. Something is always missing in the flavor. Before Don Peppe, Iberia was a favorite of ours. The last few years, we went with another couple that are our dear friends. They are big tippers and when we went with them the 1st time, it was like we were celebreties. I was surprised and clueless to the fact that tipping big, resulted in VERY special service. No waiting for a table, free appetizers, bread, salads, drinks were immediatly brought to our table. We were welcomed like royalty. Whew! However, I am not sorry to say that after 50 years in business it is now permanently closed down. The pandemic killed the business and the food and service was sub-par the last time we went to dinner at Iberia.
Back to dinner last night! Due to unfortunate news of my wife's sisters passing, she went home to be with her family in the DR. We live in Allentown, PA. SInce skipping lunch I was hungry at dinner. My wife had ni interest in food, and wanted to be dropped off at EWR,
I finally was compelled to find a better place on Ferry St. While at home yesterday I delved into reviews from various restaurants, including Don Pepe. What I discovered was a ton of reviews that shared my feeling about Don Pape, identical feelings to mine.
When looking at Forno of Spain reviews, they were almost all 5 star, and 4 star reviews. After dropping off my wife, I set my GPS to direct me there.
I was welcomed and greeted immediatly. I no sooner sat down and bread/delicious imported olives/olive oil was delivered to my table. Hadn't even seen the menu yet. The service and ambiance was like 1st class. Attention to detail from the wait staff (there are many) catered to the table like I was a special guest.
Note: Don Pepe drops olive oil and bread after being seated. No olives, no salad. You can pay extra for a salad if you like. You pay a little more at Forno's, but you get more.
The salad at Forno's was excellent - with a mix of greens, walnuts, and other veggies with a not to heavy blend of olive oil/balsamic . The bread is toasted and lightly seasoned - but I do prefer Don Pepe's Portugese bread. I'm glad I didn't order an appetizer - when it's just me eating - it is overkill. No dessert as well, I was full.
For my main entree it was Paella.
What makes Forno's Paella so much better?
The quality and freshness of the seafood in the dish. The clams, mussels, and shrimp, were great. The lobster, scallops (especially), and calamari were far more tender than what I've tasted from Don Pepe. The lobster was also tender, not tough, and you get the claw too (unlike Don Pepe). The rice and sauce in the dish completed the perfect meal. Now I know what better tastes like. As you can see in the pics, fried potatoes are included with the meal - but are not included at Don Pepe. The portion size at Forno's is a little smaller I think, but your going to take home leftovers for sure! Paella costs $48 at Forno's, I was happy to pay it!
Parking is valet and free.
My only issue was when I passed in front of my main server on the way out. I'm a 20% tipper and he was vivibly upset and the look on his face showed it as he ignored me upon me leaving.
They offer a version of Paella over capellini, which I've never seen before. The lamb specials (2), looked amazing! I'll be going back to try them!