Strolling the Santa Monica promenade presents a challenge in choosing from the varied restaurant choices (from soup to nuts). This nut chose well.
Italian restaurants which advertise northern cuisine are not always playing with a full deck – but this place has a full stack. The grilled vegetable appetizer and Petti di Pollo “Contessa Branca” entree (a chicken/fungus/cheese/prosciutto/wine/veggie creation) were well prepared and subtle (even vegetables if they are lightly sauteed in good olive oil). Bread is excellent (good crust and aerated texture), and wine choices are ample (though pricey).
231 Arizona Avenue
Santa Monica, CA
(310) 451-3525