date: 10/4/05
location: st. paul
grade: a-

a guest review.

the space is an industrial-looking room with contemporary art and polished concrete floors. the vibe is buzzing and friendly, even on a weeknight. the long wall is lined by pews with soft cushions. the tables are spaced well as the room is large, but it looks full. it looks like there is a room with curtains where a smallish private party could dine quite comfortably.

the menu and wine list were long, with many wonderful choices. when there was some question as to which wine to order, samples were brought for the table, which was a nice touch. the entrees ranged from vegetarian risottos to handmade pastas, to more hearty meat dishes. overall, the feeling is of italian comfort food.

the service was spot on and attentive. the bread basket and water glasses were filled regularly without request, and warm, fresh bread was brought to the table fresh out of the oven and swapped with the ‘older’ bread.

the food was quite good. atomato basil bisque was fantastic. the starter salad was good, but not fabulous. the main dishes, a spinach gnocchi and a handmade pesto pasta were all quite good, but not sublime. the desserts, however, were some of the best we’ve ever had. while the cannoli were tasty, with the right amount of butter in the pastry and the right mix of chocolate and cream filling, the strawberry tiramisu was literally, breath-taking. it was served in a large glass, with homemade cream and chocolate shavings.

the bathrooms were small, but comfortable and clean.

the bill was very reasonable for the service and amount of food we received. overall, a very pleasing experience, and we will be back.