For nearly nine decades, La Cantina Restaurant in Michigan has been delighting locals and visitors alike with quality Italian fare and hospitality. It all started in 1936 as a post-prohibition beer garden before blossoming into a full-fledged Italian eatery. And all the while, this neighborhood spot has been operated by the same family. This lends the restaurant a sense of familiarity and continuity, and it’s no exaggeration to say it’s quickly become a destination restaurant in Michigan. Here’s more on why a trip to La Cantina belongs on your itinerary.

The year was 1936. A couple by the name of Amo and Rose Scotese decided to open up a beer garden in what is now Kalamazoo County.
Jeff Lepley / Google Reviews
Before the restaurant opened, Amo, who was an Italian immigrant, operated an ice and coal business in the same area.
Rose Scotese was an amazing cook and her friends encouraged her to begin cooking and serving her food. The rest, as they say, is history.
La Cantina / Facebook
Today, this fine restaurant, which is situated along the Paw Paw restaurant, has retained this same spirit of hospitality.
La Cantina / Facebook
It's a popular spot for those making the trip between Chicago to Detroit, as it's conveniently located near U.S. 12.
La Cantina / Facebook

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The restaurant seats 180 in its dining room and 40 in the bar area. It also has space out on its seasonal patio for those looking for beautiful river views.
La Cantina / Facebook
The menu, which is an inventive take on classic Italian fare, has certainly evolved since its beginnings; however, many of the dishes are the same and have been served there for nearly 90 years.
La Cantina / Facebook
The pasta sauce, for example, hasn't changed one bit.
La Cantina / Facebook
Curious about what you should order? According to reviewers, the La Cantina Chicken -- which is Chicken cacciatore -- and the pizza are instant hits.
La Cantina / Facebook

So what are your thoughts on this delightful Italian eatery with humble beginnings? Have you ever had the chance to dine at La Cantina Restaurant? What was your favorite thing on the menu? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For more information about the restaurant, be sure to check out La Cantina Restaurant online. And, if you’re in need of a place to stay, feel free to check out these unique vacation rentals in Paw Paw, Michigan.

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139 W Michigan Ave, Paw Paw, MI 49079, USA