The name cannot be translated by all mean, and I doubt I'll be able to put in words the whole nice experience I had, so bear with me as I'll try my best.
We found this place walking by the narrow streets of central Padua. I don't even recall how we arrived here, in this little alley. From the front door this place is so gloom that doesn't inspire people entering.
However, the handwritten menu caught our attention. At first, prices were not clear - perhaps due to the calligraphy -, but once all was deciphered we decided to give the place a go.
I glad we did. In this little yet ancient "Osteria" I rediscovered all those tasty recipes my granny (from Venice) was used to cook me when I was a child: "Sarde in saor" and "Baccalà mantecato".
Whilst going to the gentlemen, a flavoured full-bodied smell reached my nose. I was told that was from an old poor but traditional recipe of the once upon a time Venetian Osterias: "pollo in tecia", or chicken drums cooked in wine and grappa (distilled wine) with herbs and vegetables on a polenta bed. Of course I went for it, with some chards-like vegetable side.
The dinner has been tossed with a glass of Tocai (not that good) and completed with two marvelous desserts, a chocolate and pear cake, and a coffee and chocolate mousse.
Price wise this place is much cheaper than the one we've eaten two days ago, and the quality was much better. A visit is absolutely deserved.
P.S. the empty place was so crowded when we left and people were waiting outside to be accommodated. If you are a small group, greater than two, I'd recommend booking in advance. read more