Eating in local restaurants is part of the fun of being on vacation, and guests staying at the Whistling Swan Inn are always asking me to recommend nearby eateries. This week Tom and I popped into Fanucci's in Netcong to have a quick dinner, and we were not disappointed. Family owned, the restaurant is homey and casual, serving authentic Italian food. By authentic I mean food cooked the way they prepare it in Europe, not the Americanized version of Italian food. We had the eggplant parmigiana, and it was exactly how my mother made it.In addition to a full menu, they also offer homemade gelato, which is exquisitely creamy.Fanucci's Cafe and Gelato Bar134 Ledgewood Ave.Netcong, NJ 07857973-527-7348Ros BrunoInnkeeperThe Whistling Swan Inn110 Main St.Stanhope, NJ 07874973-347-6369www.whistlingswaninn.comCheck availabilityLike us on FacebookFollow us on Pinterest