DAN GILL | spark

Caffé Gelato offers premium people-watching positions on Main Street in Newark.

HOLLY NORTON | spark
03/17/2004

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Caffé Gelato

WHERE: 90 E. Main St., Newark

CUISINE: Northern Italian, Mediterranean

THE OUTSIDE SCENE: The small, quaint space can serve as either a romantic, casual or professional dining spot. This upscale yet casual approach to food gives patrons the feeling that they are special without making a big dent in their bank accounts. Lunch specials change daily, so repeat trips are a must. On warm spring and summer evenings, people watch from one of the best spots in Newark while listening to violinist Andy Hetzler serenade customers from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

SEATING: Eight tables seat about 16 people and an awning offers some shade, if desired. The space is enclosed by a wrought-iron fence. Karen Permenter, who recently experienced Caffé Gelato for the first time, said, "We feel like we're in Europe a little bit."

Permenter is right on, as owner Ryan German's inspiration comes from his travels through Italy and Spain.

INSIDER: With limited seating outside, try going after the lunch rush, at 1:30 p.m. Park in the lot behind the restaurant - it's free for patrons. If it's full, German said, he validates parking.

Copyright ©2004, The News Journal.