Hoof ‘N Finz is a Steakhouse/Seafood restaurant located at 34 Androvette Street on Staten Island, New York (718-948-4663). Dining at this hidden gem is an exceptional experience that offers gastronomic pleasure and a unique ambiance.
Chef Fabian is extremely talented at creating exquisitely seasoned meals for a great taste. The evening’s fare stated with a few well-prepared appetizers. The Pulled Pork appetizer consisted of tender shredded pork encased in a deep fried flaky pastry shell. The meat was moist, succulent and flavorful with every bite and the golden crust provided a perfect contrast in taste to it with just the right amount of crunch. To complement this meal starter, a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce was provided as a dip.
Next to be served were baked clams, which were topped with well-seasoned bread crumbs. Lemon wedges accompanied the clams as a garnish enhancing their juicy and savory taste.
The Fried Calamari could be cut with a fork and every deep-fried squid ringlet melted like butter in your mouth. The spicy tomato sauce used for dipping provided tantalizing flavor to enhance this seafood dish.
The Manicotti was top notch. This crepe-like dish was made with homemade pasta and a smooth and creamy Ricotta cheese filling. The Marinara sauce was sweet and too tasted like it was made right at home.
Every bite of this dish was thoroughly pleasing to the palate. A house salad that contained lettuce and tomato was complemented by zesty balsamic vinaigrette.
The main course, a 12-ounce boneless rib-eye steak is truly a signature meal at Hoof ‘N Finz. Tender and cooked to perfection, this steak dish provided a delectable taste experience. Perfectly cooked, yet juicy, it did not disappoint. Mashed potatoes and broccoli with garlic were vegetable side dishes that made one’s mouth water with the taste of every morsel. A unique feature of this establishment is that frozen steaks are available for purchase. Another entrée on the menu, Tilapia Oreganata, a filet of fish topped with bread crumbs, had a wonderful seasoned taste that was noticeable, yet not overpowering.
In addition to the high quality food, Hoof ‘N Finz has a comfortable atmosphere. There is a bar area and two levels provided for dining. The main dining area, which is on the upper level, is spacious, bright and airy. Another added feature of the restaurant is an open air patio which allows a patron to enjoy the outdoors and catch up on conversation with friends or family. Owner Vincent Catalano takes great care in making sure his restaurant is run in a courteous and professional manner and he also has an excellent wait staff.
Hoof N Finz offers a wide variety of other food selections including, Maryland Crab Cakes, Lobster Crepe and Shrimp Oreganata. Other Steak dishes offered are Porterhouse (single or for two), T-Bone, Filet Mignon, Chateaubriand for two and the Fabian Fat Burger which contains Cheddar cheese, Wild Mushrooms, Bacon and Onions.
Veal Milanese, Chicken Francaise, Pecan crusted Chicken Breast and Chicken Catalano are some other options for those who don’t choose to eat red meat. Other Seafood choices are Grilled Salmon, Shrimp Scampi, Steamed Mussels and Clams, Grilled Blackened Swordfish, Lobster Tail 8oz, Chilean Sea Bass and a fried Seafood Platter.
Despite its out of the way location, Hoof ‘N Finz is a worthy choice for dining on fine food in a comfortable and relaxing environment. The restaurant also features Karaoke night on Thursdays and live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays. A party room is also available. Pay the toll if you don’t live on the Island and experience this Staten Island treasure. It’s worth the effort.
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