Arrivederci Ristorante

Arrivederci! Whenever I go to restaurants with snappy names like that, I always thing about the other side of the coin. Can you imagine an American bistro in Rome, called "Goodbye". Not really. It's like something you'd see on engrish.com.

So despite the generic title for the restaurant, I had a very well prepared meal there, and washed it down with a reasonably priced bottle of wine. If you go there expecting the all-around great restaurant experience, I do think you're going to be let down. Because of the food quality, and good menu prices, it does tend to be a popular place. And the dining room is not that accomodating. They really pack the customers in tightly. And the patio offers a little more elbow room but the downside is a rowdy group of walk-ins waiting for seating.

However if your companions are loud talkers (or if you're eating alone) then you won't be concerned with the din. And you definitely shouldn't be concerned with the dinner. I've eaten here twice, and enjoyed my meal both times. There's good quality, great variety, and definitely pride in their product. The menu seems to vary seasonally, or otherwise changes from time to time. So it's a great routine option, even for locals. And if you're visiting from out of town, definitely consider it. And take an interesting walk around the colorful Hillcrest neighborhood afterward.

I do recommend to make reservations since this is a very popular restaurant. The atmosphere is very "Italian"... loud and busy, yet warm and inviting. As a former concierge, I highly recommend it.