Through the misty rain came a glow of light, broken by the cursive flow spanning the window and marking our quarry – Gilda’s. Gilda’s Bistrot is housed right across from the San Ambrogio market in what was once an antique store. The décor hints to those bygone days through a conglomeration of multi-colored goblets and wine glasses of diverse designs, gilded mirrors, and a lovely bar area surrounded by bronze shelves divided by columns and etched with a green floral design. The ceiling is made of beautiful and rustic planks that blend well with the hardwood flooring, shutters, and six antique tables that make up the seating area. The chairs themselves are covered with a collection of unique cushions. Branching globe lights inscribed with “Gilda’s” along with candles in old-fashioned pottery holders give a radiant ambiance to the small restaurant run by Gilda herself.
“Buonasera carina,” the cheery and friendly lady greeted me with a smile. Within moments I found myself seated at the lace covered table, a bread basket and plate of delicious pomodoro puree in front of me. A selection of goblets were at our disposal for water and wine. The handwritten menus were distributed and, delighted, we found that the day’s dishes were introduced by one of Gilda’s favorite quotes. My companions and I ordered a selection of primi piatti from the daily menu to share for our meal. Taglierini Verdi con perini di Corbara e rucola, risotto mantecato con barbabietole, and Pappardelle al ragu arrived on large zig-zag themed plates in differing pastel shades. The multihued theme of the restaurant expressed itself also in our meal. The risotto with beet slivers had a muted fushia tone, while the taglierini held an olive green shade slithering in bright red tomato sauce. During our meal, traveling accordionists entered to serenade us all, and doting waitresses stood keeping watch over the cozy haven. The flavor of the fare was comparable to a working mom’s weeknight dinner – a little bland and, although quite good, nothing special. However, when coupled with the atmosphere and service, the total experience was pleasant and quaint.
“Buonasera carina,” the cheery and friendly lady greeted me with a smile. Within moments I found myself seated at the lace covered table, a bread basket and plate of delicious pomodoro puree in front of me. A selection of goblets were at our disposal for water and wine. The handwritten menus were distributed and, delighted, we found that the day’s dishes were introduced by one of Gilda’s favorite quotes. My companions and I ordered a selection of primi piatti from the daily menu to share for our meal. Taglierini Verdi con perini di Corbara e rucola, risotto mantecato con barbabietole, and Pappardelle al ragu arrived on large zig-zag themed plates in differing pastel shades. The multihued theme of the restaurant expressed itself also in our meal. The risotto with beet slivers had a muted fushia tone, while the taglierini held an olive green shade slithering in bright red tomato sauce. During our meal, traveling accordionists entered to serenade us all, and doting waitresses stood keeping watch over the cozy haven. The flavor of the fare was comparable to a working mom’s weeknight dinner – a little bland and, although quite good, nothing special. However, when coupled with the atmosphere and service, the total experience was pleasant and quaint.
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