Showing posts with label pasta. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pasta. Show all posts

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Via Veneto

San Francisco $$$ ****
Proof that spontaneity often leads to good results. My friend and I were shopping on Fillmore and unsurprisingly became hungry. We wandered around, crossing the street and changing directions randomly. Finally we found our way into this cheerful little restaurant. Pale yellow walls, Italian food, and a smiling host - yes, this place will do.
The food was decent, but the service and atmosphere were great. The restaurant seems to be run by a boisterous Italian family, but I happened to appreciate their little bickering in the background. The owner walked from table to table, making conversation. When he found out we were from Hawaii, he pointed to the man a few tables away and told us that he was also from Hawaii. A few minutes later, he brought the man over. We discovered that the man and I lived only a few streets away from each other. Small world!

Via Veneto (Pacific Heights)
2244 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94115

Monday, May 11, 2009

Buca di Beppo

Honolulu $$ ****


Another Italian chain, but I happen to like Buca di Beppo because of all the fond memories I have of this place. For Hawaii teenagers, this was the classic place to host your birthday party. My friend and I frequented this place whenever we came to Ward. Their food is good, but the main draw is definitely the atmosphere. The walls are warm and literally covered with odd photographs that make great conversation pieces - although, for a good conversation, be prepared to yell.
Buca di Beppo (Ward)
1030 Auahi Street
Honolulu, HI 96814
Sunday - Thursday 11am-10pm
Friday - Saturday: 11am-11pm