Brunello Trattoria Restaurant & Bar

Random stop on our way home from Peddlers Village in PA. Pleasantly surprised how good the food was here. All the dishes were well portioned and had fresh italian flavors. Staff was warm and friendly even though we were the last table there before they closed. Large fireplace was a great touch.

Brunello Trattoria in Croton is an absolute hidden gem that delivers big on flavor, charm, and craft cocktails. From the moment you walk in, the warm ambiance sets the tone—but it’s the bar and kitchen that truly shine. Bartender Jim is a master behind the bar—his French martini is the best you’ll ever have, and the seasonal old-fashioned is nothing short of perfection, made with top-shelf bourbon and the *right* cherries.

Start your evening with the portobello mushroom special—even if you’re not a mushroom fan, this one might convert you. For entrées, the penne vodka with shrimp is rich and satisfying, while the chicken saltimbocca is a standout. Moderately priced and worth every penny, Brunello is the kind of spot you’ll want to return to again and again. Don’t sleep on this one—it’s a local treasure.

This was my first time here, some of the people in my group have been here many times before and highly recommended it. This restaurant does catering and can do parties like mine.
I can see why this restaurant was chosen. We were a group of 10 people celebrating a Christmas Party. We had a reservation and were seated immediately.
The dining room itself was lovely. It was decorated beautifully with Christmas decorations, a large Christmas Tree in the corner. They have a mantle over the fireplace that was lit up and decorated with Christmas lights.
What made this room extra special was the gigantic fireplace that had a roaring fire going as we sat and enjoyed our food and each other’s company.
The setting was traditional and on each wall was framed pictures. I kind of felt like I was in a Southern home. In a separate room was a nice size bar with flatscreen TV’s.
We started off with cocktails and appetizers. The dishes that were chosen:
MUSSELS ALA VINO- I got them in a marinara sauce with garlic crostini for dipping. The mussels were delicious.
CALAMARI FRUTTI- fried calamari with capers, black olives, sun dried tomatoes, and caramelized onions.
Along with TRADITIONAL FRIED CALAMARI-with MARINARA. Both Calamari’ dishes were delicious.
MOZZARELLA EN CAROZZA-
Served with marinara sauce. These were crunchy and the middle oozed with fresh melted mozzarella.
LITTLE NECK CLAMS AND SAUSAGE- Lemon, garlic, herbs, crostini. These clams were sweet and smokey from the sausage.
WINGS- (Medium Heat) the wings were crispy and flavorful.
For my entree I chose their Special. STUFFED FLOUNDER WITH CRABMEAT-It was light and tasty. It also came with a vegetable risotto, which was really delicious.
Other dishes that were chosen were PORK OSSO BUCCO-Vegetable risotto, and pan gravy
POLLO PARMIGIANA-Boneless breast of chicken breaded with marinara and melted mozzarella
POLLO MILANESE-Boneless breast of chicken pan-fried topped with arugula, onions, tomato, balsamic vinaigrette
SALMON-Pan-roasted salmon with pesto sauce, seasonal vegetable saute, roasted potatoes
GAMBERI SCAMPI-Jumbo shrimp, lemon, garlic, herbs, over spaghetti
PENNE VODKA-Peas, prosciutto, a touch of cream, tomato, and a splash of vodka.
We then went on to desserts.
TIRAMISU, LEMON SORBET, TARTUFO, ICE CREAM SUNDAE, RED VELVET CAKE.
Everyone in our group thoroughly enjoyed their dinner and their desserts. It was a very relaxing and peaceful evening. Our server was wonderful and very attentive. Even the owner came over and checked on us. I would definitely return and try some other dishes.