Ostregheteria Sottoriva 23​

Located in the northeast corner of the historic old town, on a charming cobbled street (via Sottoriva), I've taken a number of guests to Ostregheteria Sottoriva 23 recently and it's always been a satisfying experience. 

It's located in one of my favourite parts of the city. Enclosed by the sparkling Adige to the north, Teatro Romano, the Duomo and the church of Santa Anastasia provide a magnificent architecural backdrop, while the small shops, bars and restaurants selling flowers, cheeses and others local products provide a rich and colourful streetscape. The mood is relaxed and peaceful, a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of Piazza Bra and via Mazzini.

One of the nice things about Sottoriva 23 is the single plate lunch menu, which offers two-courses (served on a single plate) for €10. This is an ideal choice if a full first and second course is too much for you, but you want more than just the standard bowl of pasta. This lunchtime menu includes Gnocchi al Gorgonzola with Brasato all'Amarone, Trofie Al Pesto with Polipo e Seppie, and Lasagna with Tagliata di Stinco con patate (the photos here show the summer menu). There is also a full list of starters, mains and pizzas, if you prefer a more conventional approach.

It's late-November and bone-chillingly cold so, having just done a couple of miles on the bike, I opt for the pasta e fagioli - the ultimate winter warmer. Washed down with a warm Valpollicella Classico and served with toasted bread, it's a filling and nutritious lunch. While the service today was somewhat lackadaisical, I leave refuelled and satisfied, ready for the afternoon ahead.