when within minutes we were served two colossal Cajun shrimp in an impeccable risotto. In grand Italian tradition we topped the evening with a shot of Grappa (a brandy distilled from the fermented resi- due of grapes after they have been pressed in wine making), paired withTiramisu for dessert, it that was perfectly composed with a whipped cream topping. Heavenly! Ti Amo is the perfect destination for that special
romantic interlude with a lover or group of friends ready for a magical experience. It was a buona sera (good evening) at Ti Amo, 31727 South Coast High- way. Laguna Beach Reservations 949.499.5350 or
tiamolagunabeach.com
LONG BEACH: Cafe Piccolo è così Romantico Translated the title means, “Cafe Piccolo is so Ro-
mantic”. This little charmer too is a great choice for a date night or a group of friends for a party. Previously a French Bistro, Piccolo opened all the way back in 1985 and has consistently been recognized as one of Long Beach’s romantic restaurants. Cafe Piccolo has enjoyed the overwhelming support of the gay and lesbian community, as well as continued loyalty from locals. I am impressed by co-owner, Tony Abbassi, a
trained Italian chef who designed the eclectic Italian menu. Years ago, he teamed up with Moe Shahbani, both former civil engineer co-workers; one day the two decided to leave their jobs and enter the culinary world by opening a restaurant together. Clearly, they made a sound decision based on the longev- ity they’ve established. They have maximized the surrounding outdoor space which is graced with an exotic garden, waterfalls and fountains. Hands down, one of the coziest, quaint solariums with a fire pit around. We were seated by Tony and introduced to Ally,
our server who has been with the company for 11 years. She enthusiastically brought us some deli- cious warm fresh bread and asked if we would like a glass of wine. I chose La Crema Pinot Noir (rich, complex with a broad spectrum of citrus flavors and tropical tones) and John had the Nathanson Creek California Chardonnay (Lush tropical fruity flavors with a rich finish and a hint of oak). For appetizers, Ally suggested the Grilled Eggplant topped with goat cheese and a spicy tomato sauce. I craved the Spicy Shrimp sautéed in garlic and Nam Prik sauce, both were delishious. Moving on, John had the Lentil Soup, it seemed
like a deconstructed recipe and had good flavor. I ordered the House Salad, fresh and crispy greens
FEBRUARY 2012 | RAGE monthly 61
topped with an herby creamy Italian dressing and a fresh pepperoncini. Entrées were next, John nar- rowed it down to theBlack Linguini (dyed with squid ink) with mussels, clams and calamari served with a homemade marinara sauce. My choice, Dusted Spicy Scallops, sprinkled with cayenne pepper and served with a red cabbage white wine garlic sauce. The scallops were phenomenal, yet it was an unusual plating choice to have them underneath the bed of cabbage, it did definitely keep them tender. While I thought the home-style food was prepared well and was tasty, I would encourage refinement and atten- tion to detail on the overall presentation. The Truffle was the sexiest part of the meal, filled
with coffee ice cream and the Tiramisu was covered with melt-in-your mouth chocolate; we savored each bite and it was the perfect conclusion. Chef Oscar was on duty and has been creating
culinary delights at Piccolo for 20-years. Part of this assignment was to find romantic dinners “for all bud- gets,” they are pretty reasonable with entrée prices in the $16.95 to $17.95 range, which includes soup or salad. The menu has a wonderful variety of selections including lamb, veal, chicken, and seafood; with signature dishes such as Goat Cheese Chicken and the Zinfandel Lamb. This destination has been
booked for many intimate weddings, parties and small corporate gatherings. Mission accomplished . . . I was tasked with finding
romantic dining experiences and with Piccolo’s relax- ing atmosphere, I was feeling amore.
Café Piccolo, 322 Broadway, Long Beach is open for lunch and dinner. Reservations at 562.438.1316
orcafepiccolo.com.
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