This past weekend my family and I went to Chioda’s Trattoria. Chioda’s is hidden in the back roads of Worcester, located in the middle of a neighborhood: a hole in the wall to say the least. Pulling up, you wouldn’t think that an Italian restaurant is behind the doors.

After walking in we were quickly greeted by the hostess. She made us feel right at home, letting us choose where we would like to sit. The two dining rooms could maybe seat fifty at the most. While looking around we noticed all of the pictures and paintings in beat up old frames. I couldn’t tell if the walls were worn down or if that was just wallpaper.

Our waitress Melinda was very personable and made sure we had everything we needed. When it came time to order, my Dad and I ordered the Chicken Appiana; a dish made with a creamy white alfredo sauce, mushrooms, prosciutto, and large pieces of tender chicken. My brother and Mom both ordered Chicken Parmigiana. The meals came out relatively shortly after we ordered.

Melinda put the dish in front of me and it was enormous, the pasta was pouring off of the sides, with steam coming from the top. My first bite consisted of a tender piece of chicken and ended with a salty, savory taste of prosciutto. The chicken was so tender I could cut it with a fork and savor a nice, smokey after-taste.

After finishing our entrées, we ordered two slices of chocolate cake. It arrived in three layers with frosting in between. I took a bite and the cake melted in my mouth. The frosting was chocolate buttercream, which was sweet but not too overpowering.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys a home cooked italian meal. The prices are not too high, with entrees averaging about sixteen to seventeen dollars a piece. The service and food was fantastic, making us feel right at home even in the heart of Worcester.