The staff and chef are extraordinary...not that we met the chef, but the quality ingredients used here definitely show a level of care and pride you don't see everywhere.
We walked in and saw the anteroom, which had a more casual vibe and a tv on showing a game. For a nice dinner we prefer places without television screens, so we debated leaving, but the staff was so welcoming we just couldn't leave. They invited us to see the larger salon behind the bar, to see if we liked one of the tables there (we chose one that didn't face a tv screen).
We were so impressed by their friendliness and eagerness to chat (and they all seem to speak English, which we didn't need or expect but again, very impressive).
They gave us free mini-margaritas to welcome us. We ordered a salmon appetizer (generous portions of smoked salmon on little crostini), a classic pizza ( the "Italiana") and one of the inventive risotto dishes (with leeks and champagne). The pizza was beautiful (excellent presentation) and tasty. The risotto was flavorful and perfectly al dente. The nutella tiramisu was delicious...I am not a huge fan of tiramisu but being a nutella-lover I decided I had to try this one and I am so glad I did. They had a couple options for wine by the glass, one Italian and one Spanish (Bañeiza Roble). I had the latter and loved it.
I was pleased that there were a couple of vegetarian risotto options (in addition to the ubiquitous "ai funghi"). Would love to see a simple linguini with fresh tomato sauce or some such added to the menu but honestly the options are great. Tons of pizza options. Specials sounded tempting as well. Waiter said they bring everything in fresh (lobster etc) so when it's gone, it's gone. I like this approach.
I'd say this is a great place to dine with others or alone...waiters are so friendly and chatty you won't feel lonely.
