Thomas B.
Yelp
Outside, you see, sort of a blend looking parklets where seating is outside as authorized by the city after COVID. When you walk inside, you step into another world of customer service and elegance. The whole time we were there. The bar was full, and the restaurant tables were full.
We were immediately greeted by a hostess at the front door, and one of the hosts opened the door for me as I walked with a cane. Very nice first impression. As I looked around, I noticed high ceilings, and the atmosphere inside was buzzing with energy. It was a little loud, yes, but people were having a great time. The hostess took us to our seat, the three of us, and immediately we met Victor, who brought us a picture of water and set us up with our glasses and bread and butter. Victor was cheerful and welcoming, and it was a very, very nice service that he provided all the way around.
We had our menus for a while. Alexis, our waiter came and introduced himself to us and was able to answer precisely what the items on the menu were. And how popular they were, it was extremely helpful. It helped us narrow down our selection. As I looked around, I saw a happy diner seating sumptuous looking meal, and the bars remained so full. The whole time we were there that it was a beehive of activity throughout the restaurant.
As our food arrived, I took care to look at presentation quantity and freshness. As I ate it, I made sure to taste all the levels of crafting that they placed into each portion. And we had agreed beforehand to taste off of each other's plates, so we would have the complete experience.
First, we received the Antipasti Insalata, which was the Insalata di Spinaci. This is made with baby spinach, grapes, gorgonzola, and champagne vinaigrette. Next, we had the Spuntini arrive, which was the Sfizio di Formaggi. Consisting of Pecorino Fresco and Parmigiano Regggiano cheese. Also, a Squash Blossom stuffed with Ricotta Cheese, Marcona Almonds, the unique Tarallini, and summer Truffle Honey Drizzle. Then our Primi and Secondi Piatti arrived. I had the Tagliolini al Tonno. These were the thin pasta strands, with Tuna Conservato, Castelvetrano Olives, Anchovy, Capers, Tomato, and Calabrian Chili and mint. Our friend tried Trofie al Pesto. This has a Rusticchella d'Abruzzo Pasta "twists,"Genovese Pesto Basil, Pinenuts, Garlic, Pecarino Cheese, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Green Beans, and potatoes. My wife had the Branzino alla Grillia. This was a succulent grilled whole boneless Mediterranean Sea Bass in herbs. With garlic, baby arugula, lemon, and extra Virgin Olive Oil, too perfection. Everything we ate was incredible. It was all understated a little bit, so you weren't overwhelmed by spicycheat or too much garlic but romanced with underlying flavors that were delightful. We finished with the house Tiaramisu and Gelato with big smiles.
Service atmosphere cleanliness was incredible. It would be a great place to take someone to when you want to show off great Italian Cuisine. SEE OUR PICS.
THE BUZZ:
Parking - limited streetside
Handicapped Friendly - Yes
Reservations - Recommended
Greeted - Yes
Seated - Yes
Ambience - Relaxed casual
Noise Level - Lively, loud because of happy diners' energy.
Décor - functional seating
Service - Yes
Cleanliness - Spotless
Menu Selection - Great Menu + For Kids
Food Style - Italian with emphasis on regions less seen.
Presentation - Eye appealing
Portions - Plentiful
Take out - Yes!
Delivery - No
Pricing - $ to $$
Outdoor/Patio - Parlet in front.
Unique Feature - Nice old building
Bar - Full Bar
Happy Hour - Yes
Good for Groups - Yes
Kid Friendly - Yes
Music/Live Music - no
TV - no
Dress - Casual
Cash/Credit - Yes
Wi-Fi - Yes
Website - https://www.viadelcorso.net/
Phone - (510) 704-8004
Address: 1788 Shattuck Ave. Berkeley, CA 94709
Hours: Sunday, Tuesday-Thursday, 5pm-9pm
Friday-Saturday, 5pm-10pm