0 Followers
Corks
Master Critic Review
Corks
7.9
Intimate wine bar serving Italian wines alongside house-made pastas and small plates. Low lighting and close-set tables make it a natural pick for low-key dates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e Pepe, Meatballs al sugo, Affogato
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Serious Italian wine focus paired with handmade pasta.
Who should go: Wine-first couples and pasta fans
When to visit: Tue–Thu evenings to avoid weekend rush
What to order: Cacio e pepe; meatballs; affogato
Insider tip: Ask staff for by-the-glass off-list pours—rotations change often.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on California and Laurel can be tight after 6pm; aim for nearby residential side streets or limited metered spots on Sacramento.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine if paired with a button-down or blouse; most guests lean slightly dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate—low hum of conversation and music but still easy to talk without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Closed at lunch—opens for dinner service only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pastas and antipasti like burrata and mushroom risotto are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 small plates can be adapted on request but no dedicated vegan entrées.
Gluten-free options: Some dishes can be made gluten-free; kitchen uses shared surfaces, so cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, close tables, and attentive but unintrusive service make it ideal for an intimate first date over wine and pasta.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early on weeknights, but weekends book up; the bar sometimes holds a few walk-in seats for small parties.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—focused on adult dining and wine service with minimal space for strollers or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Couples seeking a cozy, wine-forward Italian spot with staff who know their vintages.
Skip if: You prefer large portions, family-style dining, or a louder group atmosphere—try a larger trattoria instead.