A Touch of old Lucca on the Plaza
DESCRIPTION: Stepping into Della Santina's is like stepping into one's grandmother's house. Especially if one's grandmother like mine was from Lucca, Italy. I cannot recommend this place more highly if one is looking for a very good Italian meal in Sonoma (and who isn't). "Dellas", as it's known around here can't be beat. Beautifuly made pastas, and specials and perfectly roasted meats (turkey, chicken, rabbit, pork and duck) from the trattoria spit tempt the eye, the nose and the palate. Everything is fresh and homemade, without pretension. Olive oil is on the table for dipping the crusty warm bread, a log crackles in the old fashioned marble fireplace, the linens are crisp and white, and old family photos of the Della Santina family decorate the tiny dining room. If you are dining there in warm weather ask to be seated on the patio, where the splashing of a fountain and the grape arbors add to the charm of a leisurely lunch. Pasta Contadina featured at dinner only is exceptional, if rabbit papperdella is on the dinner menu order it! Desserts are all homemade and the lemon tart and panna cotta are exceptional.
DATE: 2006-01-14
FOODRATING : 8
SERVICERATING : 8
AMBIANCERATING : 10
OVERALLRATING : 6
RECOMMENDED DISHES : Pasta Contadina, roast duck, or chicken,Rabbit Papperdella