Sara: What was our waiter's name there? Paulo?
Jess: Umm...no, that's our cousin who lives in Italy. Not all Italian men are named that. He did, however, meet my expectation that all Italian men are charming and attentive.
Sara: True. Plus, you weren't drinking that night and he tried to force it on you, which I really respected.
Jess: He was persistent in trying to bring me wine, you're right. Little does he know, most nights I order a glass upon crossing the threshold. It looked like a substantive wine list. How was yours?
Sara : House Sangiovese. Tried and true. It's a rare place that can serve wine in a small, thick goblet the size of a port glass, filled to the top, and not upset me. Somehow... it worked. I think because the whole dining experience felt so authentic.
Jess: The food definitely was. Linguini and clams with, well, lots of whole clams. Still in the shell! I was surprised to see this little neighborhood pizzeria delivering such a fresh dish. Next time let's try the pizza - I've since heard it's some of the best in town.
Sara : Do you think there's anywhere else in the world where two restaurants with the same name and owner sit on the same street only a block apart? And do you think that's weird? Starbucks doesn't count.
Jess: I mean, do you think the mail goes separately to each establishment, or do you think it only goes to one place?
Sara: Well, I really like going to both places so I bet the mailman does too.
Jess: Okay we're getting off track. Arrivederci: superior service, big portions....
Sara: Piping hot food--super hot. And it stayed hot too. Are you just saying that about the service because our waiter brought us free cheesecake?
Jess: No, but I do heart him for bringing us the cheesecake.
Sara: Well I hate him for it. And who the hell eats cheesecake in 2007 anyway?
Jess: Me, every chance I get.
Sara: Right. Pleasantly surprised to see the saut?ed calamari on the menu rather than just fried, and I'm glad we went with it.
Jess: Agreed. I could have easily eaten an appetizer for dinner. It's amazing we were able to make a decision since the menu was so ginormous.
Sara: I know-- it was a bit much. But their propensity to please helps me forgive their propensity to overwhelm. It was a great touch when the owner, straight from Sorrento, swung by the table to check up on our full bellies.
Jess: Did you manage to steal my leftovers, by the way? Somehow I left with a doggie bag, and between your house and mine, lost it.
Sara: Yeah, your leftovers stayed at my place, and I had them for lunch. The orrichete dish you ordered was outstanding. Nice, simple, brothy tomato sauce, great spicy sausage, and the broccoli rabe were perfectly cooked.
Jess: Seemed like your cioppino had that same fresh tomato sauce. How was your special side of spinach?
Sara: I'm pretty sure they saut?ed it in grappa.
Jess: How appropriate. I think it's time to wrap this up. Safe to say these sister restaurants meet Hanson sister approval?
Sara: Hello Arrivederci!
[chirp]
