This Italian country-style alfresco trattoria is top of the line yet not pretensious or trendy. The food is fabulous and makes Buca seem crude by comparison. You'll find delicious comfort food like a plate of tender gnocchi in a mild cheese sauce or rigatoni in tomato but a number of magnificent surprises as well. Be sure to wait to hear an extensive list of daily specials not listed on the menu before making your mind up. The Polli Champagne ($16.95) with sun dried tomatoes and a champagne sauce that was out of this world served with perfectly grilled fresh vegetables. My brother, celebrating his birthday, ordered a seafood sampler with a untraditional preparation of calamari, a small lobster tail, jumbo shrimp and scallops all excellently prepared. Cruton crusted Halibut (not on the menu) was prepared exactly to taste and well presented. With the outdoor patio, a bar, and variety of interior settings the intimate atmosphere provides a range of dining experiences for families, power business meeting, or romantic couples. We had my 18 month old niece in our party and she couldn't stop repeating her first attempts at "calamari" and "avocado" as her pallet was as excited as everyone else in the party. Kids under 10 eat free. Deserts are fabulous. Prices range form $8 to $14 for appetizers, $12 to $36 for entries. Extensive list of good Italian wine ($26 to $50 bottle).
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