Sant Ambroeus has locations around the city and is known for its elegant Italian cuisine as well as extensive dessert and gelato selection. Whether you visit the classy Sant Ambroeus on the Upper East Side, trendy/hip SA in SoHo, or the cute and casual SA in the West Village, you are guaranteed to have an exceptional dining experience. The majority of the menu is naturally gluten free, and although the Italian titles on the menu can throw you for a loop, the descriptions of each dish are written in english and clearly state exactly what each entree contains. The best part about the menu is that what you see is what you get! Gluten is not added to the food unless it is required (example- breaded veal milanese) and organic vegetables and produce is used whenever possible…
Not only does Sant Ambroeus have a gluten free bread and a gluten free penne option, but the majority of the entrees are naturally gluten friendly with the exception of a few obvious dishes. Menus vary between the three locations, but SA’s philosophy of quality, organic cuisine is maintained at all spots. My favorite nobread orders are the insalata caprese consisting of organic tomatoes with buffalo mozzarella in a basil oil dressing, the asparagi freddi which is asparagus in a light vinaigrette with diced eggs, the insalta di quinoa, and the insalata centocolori which is tricolor organic lettuces with avocado, mozzarella, and olives. Staff at Sant Ambroeus is allergy conscious and the West Village menu even has a disclaimer that asks all customers notify the waitstaff of any and all dietary restrictions! Entree choices at the three locations are very similar, if not the same and I highly recommend any of the pasta dishes. As I stated earlier, gluten free pasta is served at all locations and all pasta dishes can be prepared gluten free if you ask for the gluten free penne noodle. IMPORTANT: You must tell your server that you have a gluten allergy so that your GF noodle is cooked in a separate pot of water; otherwise, all pasta is cooked in the same pot of water. Staple nobread secondi options include branzino, salmon, chicken, and filet mignon; all are served with seasonal vegetables, greens, or potatoes. The presentation of these dishes is perfect and you are guarenteed to be happy with whatever you choose.
Next time you are in the mood for a high-class, fine dining experience definitely head to Sant Ambroeus… and don’t leave without getting dessert! Yes, this restaurant is known for their delicious pastries, but there are plenty of fruit, gelato, and sorbet options to satisfy your sweet tooth, too.