Step inside a small Italian villa - err, step inside Branzino restaurant.
Located at 261 S. 17th St. in Center City, Branzino is a small, but cozy BYO to gather with friends for wine and good food.
I especially liked the decor, which included soft green hues and murals that made it seem like one was looking out onto a countryside.
The seating was prompt and we were shown to a table on the second of two levels of seating.
To begin the meal, the mozzarella basilica ($8) featured fresh cheese, tomatoes and red peppers in a basil olive oil.
The seafood soup, a special of the day, would also be a good selection.
For a main course, I choose another of the night's specials - a filet mingon with a side of broccoli rabbe.
One of my only dissatisfactions on the evening came, though, when it arrived with still a good bit of pink inside after I asked for it well done.
However, I did enjoy the filet because it turned out very tender.
And speaking of tender dishes on the menu -- the Scaloppine Sorrento ($18) was very tasty as well.
Eggplant, prosciutto and fontina cheese complimented a thin cut of veal in a white wine sauce.
They always say save the best for last - so it was onto desert, a perfect way to cap off a meal that was neither rushed nor hurried.
I had never tasted tartufo before. Italian for truffle, it was a confection that consisted of a scoop of vanilla gelato inside a hardened chocolate shell and was cut into four wedges with chocolate drizzled on top.
Or if you're not so adventurous, the New York cheese cake is a safe selection on the menu.
With pleasant service and food that's not too pricey, plan your next adventure downtown here.
