
My San Francisco roommate, Paola Paliotti, was from Naples, Italy. She really opened my eyes to food, especially food from Italy. One thing she said to me when I was moving in was, "you'll be a good cook, I'll teach you". Hmmm, what did that mean? The comment came after I proudly placed my cans of Progresso Vegetable Soup and Top Ramen in the kitchen cupboards.
I was a student at San Francisco State University and Paola was a translator. I was broke most of the time, but when I scraped up enough money, Paola & I could be found at either Ciao or Luna Cafe. When we were both low on cash, we would grab a slice at either Viccolo off of Van Ness or Golden Boy Pizza in North Beach. If we weren't in the South-of-Market "CLUB" mood, we'd always end up at Savoy Tivoli. Ah memories...
I have to say, Paola was an outstanding cook. Our best meals were at home. I was usually in charge of the wine (another learning experience!) Currently, Paola is back in Italy and owns Il Bar Sotto il Mare in Sestri Levante, Italy. One day I will visit and eat her fabulous food again.

The Italian food scene is not the same in Seattle. I am not complaining, there are plenty of places for great Italian in Seattle, it's just different. Moving on...when I am craving Neapolitan Pizza, I go to Tutta Bella or Via Tribunali. OK, Tutta Bella wasn't always a chain. Does anyone remember when Tutta Bella opened in Columbia City. Crowded, gave you wine while you waited for your table and YUMMY Neapolitan pizza. Don't get me wrong, I like thick crust pizza too, but I'm not always in the mood for a lot of bread.
Insalate: Pizza Insalata NapoliTutta Bella flatbread topped with genoa salami, rire-roasted chicken breast, pancetta, carrots, artichoke hearts, romaine, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, gorgonzola, and a white balsamic vinaigrette.
Great choice for either a starter to share or lighter entree pizza.
Pizze Napoletane: Tutta BellaPomodoro San Marzano, Insernio's Italian Sausage, fresh mozzarella, roasted onions, and roasted mushroomsSo good.

All gone...

Do not skip DOLCI!
Carolina's Cornetto: Italian Pizzelle cookie stuffed with a creamy blend of mascarpone, ricotta, pistachio, dried cherry, orange zest and chocolate.
No comments:
Post a Comment