Osteria

Osteria Restaurant Review:

The warm and romantic restaurant brings to mind the packed, old-style Italian eateries of Little Italy, often visited out of tradition or tourism rather than for anything exceptional about the food itself. This is a perennial date-night spot for Palo Alto and Peninsula couples. Dishes are straightforward, classic Italian and, as the menu states, "...since 1986, the same chefs, same recipes, same sauce, same love." The love is evident in the friendly and welcoming staff, but the recipes could use a refresh. Gnocchi are dense and doughy; osso buco is mild and the accompanying pasta even more so. A stand-out special of lamb chops with Marsala sauce was well prepared, the sauce flavorful with an appropriate tang. Rich tiramisu is as classic as it gets, and in this case all the better for it. An extensive wine list and a smattering of Italian beers also present well, although wine and beer are the limit of the adult beverage choices.