I've been wanting to come here for a while. I'm the person who constantly talks about visiting Positano, knowing full well I'm not getting there any time soon. So, when a restaurant advertises that it has an "Amalfi Coast" vibe, I'm all in!
I wanted to take my two friends out for their 60th birthdays. I figured this would be a perfect opportunity to visit Vico, as we wanted something with outdoor dining and a fresh, European feel. I made reservations for an outdoor table, even though I hadn't been able to find photos of their outdoor dining area.
It was a Wednesday evening, and for some odd reason, when we arrived the front entrance was closed due to the windows being replaced. We thought a car had accidentally driven through it, but thankfully that was not the case. Since the contractors advised us to enter through the back way, our first point of entry was through Vico's dining courtyard. We were pleasantly surprised at how beautiful it was! It's surrounded by a wooden privacy fence, pretty landscaping with a variety of trees and flowering plants, and twinkle lights and Edison bulbs around the perimeter. The tables each had an umbrella and the atmosphere felt relaxed and perfect for a summer evening al fresco dining experience.
Our waiter, Steven, was knowledgeable, attentive, friendly, and just adorable. Any dining experience goes up a few notches depending on waitstaff like him! Five stars for service right there.
The first thing we ordered was our drinks: Casamigos Blanco Tequila, seltzer, fresh lime juice and fresh limes. This is not on the menu. It's just a no-sugar drink I make for myself that doesn't make me feel horrible the next day. Not every bartender can pull this seemingly simple libation off, but whoever was behind the bar at Vico that night made it spot-on.
Next, we ordered three appetizers: Potato Croquettes, Carbonara Suppli, and Burrata. All delicious, and highly recommended. The croquettes had a light, crisp breading on the outside and the inside was a fluffy cloud of seasoned potato deliciousness. The Carbonara Suppli, a sort of baked spaghetti croquet all on its own, had the perfect blend of cheese and guanciale with a nice chew to it. Both the Croquets and the Suppli were accompanied by a delicious garlic aioli that complemented them wonderfully. The winner, though, seemed to be the burrata, served over a bed of fresh baby arugula with a simple olive oil dressing and a fig drizzle that was light and fresh.
For the main course, two of us ordered the Branzino, which--if you like fish--is a must-try. It was outstanding. Like, really outstanding. The delicate lemon-butter sauce put this dish over the top. I'm not sure I will ever order anything else there, that's how good it was. Our other friend ordered the ravioli and said it was delicious. She ate most of it, and that's all I can tell you about it. I was too busy moaning with delight over every bite of my Branzino.
Once we finished our meals, Steven brought out a birthday Tiramisu that he previously explained to me was authentically made with espresso, mascarpone instead of cream, etc. I'm not a huge Tiramisu fan, but I knew none of us would eat a chocolate pizza (even though it looked delicious). Well, the Tiramisu did not disappoint. It was sweet and flavorful, light and airy and probably the only Tiramisu I've ever enjoyed. The cappuccinos were perfectly made with an abundance of foam on top.
The bill came out to $180, which I thought was extremely reasonable for all the delicious items we ordered. Vico is perfect for a date night, a night out with friends, or heck, I would even come here alone and eat if I was feeling melancholy for Positano. Try it, you'll like it! read more