Of the numerous times I've traveled to and through Italy, there have been just a handful of times that I've found true hidden gems - this is one of them. I almost don't want to write this review because this restaurant is filled with locals and if word gets out, then they might be inundated with tourists, but this restaurant is so good that I'd be selfish to keep the find to myself.
Nestled off a winding road, away from the center of town, this hidden gem is easily missed. The front entrance is obscure as there are a few cars parked in front of the space blocking the entrance view. And due to the winding road, the earth toned sign can be easily missed. I found this place with google search and thank goodness I went a few towns over from where I'm staying to try them out.
Upon entering, you are greeted with a rustic and homey restaurant. The owner couple are very friendly and their 2 French Bulldogs are part of the restaurant experience. The atmosphere is lively with the locals that dine there. We were seated right away and there are no menus at lunch. The husband owner asked for our preference of water and wines, then brought us a carafe of Vino Rosso and Acqua Frizzante. Service is warm, attentive and very non intrusive.
Then the wife owner came to our table and told us the items available, first in Italian and then in English when she realized that we weren't fluent and were visiting. She tells you the 3-5 appetizers they have, then the 3-4 main dishes, and the vegetable sides/salads available. You pick one from each category and your mean begins. Afterwards, you are offered any coffee drink of choice. Turns out that their lunches are "Menu Lunches" where you get wine, bottled water, an appetizer, a main, a side, and coffee - all for a mind blowing €15.00
The warm, wonderful service and amazingly delicious food brought me back to this restaurant about twice a week during my 5 week stay in a nearby town. The menu changes daily depending on what is fresh or in season, so you'll never get tired of eating there. Dinner to note, is on a menu basis and the restaurant is turned into a fancier setting. The menu is larger and just as delicious, but more refined to that of a traditional Osteria. There's not enough space and time for me to go through each item I ordered and ate to my heart's delight here, so you will have to experience this wonderful restaurant for yourself!
I can't wait for the next time I'm in the region so I can revive my soul with the food here! I dream of that day. read more