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Contra Costa Marketplace - Feb 2017

RESTAURANT REVIEW JANUARY 2017 MARKETPLACECONTRACOSTA.COM 35 to our table and made us feel right at home. The dining tables are adorned with red and white linen tablecloths and napkins, and the servers are uniformly dressed in black slacks and white shirts. The dining room is bi-level, and each room has a generous amount of table seating, and both are spacious enough to accommodate large groups of guests. A large sign that says “Cucina” identifies the kitchen area, and there are beautiful chandeliers and ambient lighting throughout. A full cozy bar is nestled near the back of the upper dining room. The interior décor features lovely archways and pillars, reminiscent of Italian architecture, and stylish arched windows adorned with wooden shutters. Beautiful paintings and several large handpainted murals of the Tuscan countryside decorate the restaurant walls. The traditional look and feel Red Snapper Special of this Italian ristorante is surpassed only by its authentic Italian culinary offerings. La Strada’s menu is divided into multiple course selections—Antipasti & Pizza, Insalate & Zuppa, Prima Piatti, and Secondi Piatti (Translation: Appetizers and Pizza; Salad & Soup, First Course, and Second Course.) While soup and salad is not included with first or second course selections, either may be added for only a $2.00 upcharge. As we looked over the many choices on the menu, our waiter, Albano, introduced himself and took our drink orders. Although La Strada has a robust wine menu, my guest and I were more intrigued by the featured cocktails. I ordered an Italian Margarita, which was made with Amaretto; and my guest ordered an Island Margarita, was made with tropical juices. Both drinks were nice variations of traditional margaritas; however, I preferred the milder taste of the Italian drink (with the sugared rim), over the tropical drink, which had a stronger alcohol flavor. From over a dozen traditional Italian appetizers, including such favorites as Bruschetta, Carpaccio, Calamari Fritti, and Mozzarella Caprese, we decided to order the Crostini--toasted breads topped with pesto, prosciutto, and mozzarella cheese. We both enjoyed the crunchiness of the toasted breads, and the delicious cheesy pesto flavor. We each ate two Crostini, and also indulged in the fresh bread and olive oil dipping sauce served with all meals. We were tempted to try another appetizer, but refrained to ensure we saved room for our dinner entrees. We skipped the “first course” menu items, although there were many wonderful choices available— ravioli, fettuccine, lasagna, risotto, cannelloni, linguini, and gnocchi— Open for Lunch and Dinner Head Chef Peter Liang


Contra Costa Marketplace - Feb 2017
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