"Tucked into the middle of the South Shore shopping center, this 10-year-old real-deal Italian neighborhood restaurant showcases the work of Abruzzo-born chef Giuseppe Naccarelli, formerly VP of kitchen operations for Il Fornaio and an Alameda resident with his family since the late 90s. An open kitchen anchors an airy space that offers counter seating, booths, tables, and outdoor dining year-round. Pizzas, pasta, risottos, wood-fired grilled meats, and fish all have their devotees, and signature cocktails feature spirits from island-neighbor St. George Distillery. The kids’ menu is a roundup of usual suspects, made instantly more charming with their Italian names like pizza piccolo (small cheese pizza) and crocante di pollo (chicken tenders). Reservations strongly recommended; the restaurant is a go-to for many locals." - Justine Jones, Laura Smith Borrman
