Caffe Ciao

Description:

• There are two parts to this charming trattoria: the deli, with a takeout section, and the cafe, with tables under the trees, next to the bar. Rare and wonderful wines, such as Vine Cliff, are sold in the deli, along with ultraluxe rose soaps and other bath products, assorted pastas, pizzas, roasted potatoes, vegetable panini, vegetable lasagna, abundant salads, and an appealing selection of microwavable and takeout goodies. On the terrace under the trees, the tables are cheerfully accented with Italian herbs growing in cachepots. My fave is the linguine pomodoro, with fresh tomatoes, spinach-tomato sauce, and a dollop of mascarpone. Unfortunately, lunch is served only in summer and from mid-December to mid-March, when most of the tourists are around.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010