Branca is a tiny restaurant located in a small townhouse at the south east corner of Dundas and Lansdowne. The ambiance is dark but welcoming. The walls are covered with paper adorned with what look like palm leaves and natural light is let in through a wall of windows on the east side.
Seating is limited because it is a small space, but we didn't have trouble getting a table for 3 at 7pm. However, the tables did fill up quickly as the evening went on. The food comes out quickly so you're sitting around waiting for too long.
To start, we got the smoked beef and mushroom empandas. Both were smaller than I expected but delicious nonetheless. The beef came with a tomato salsa and a hot salsa that we loved so much we requested it again when the mushroom empanadas came out. I would highly recommend the empanadas!
Next came the baked ricotta accompanied with toasted bread slices. This dish was excellent as well, the cheese was creamy and the mushrooms on top added texture and flavour. My only complaint is that I wish there was more bread! Not everyone is on a low carb diet.
Our main was the short ribs with potato strings. We were torn between the strings or the eggplant so our waitress made the decision for us and recommended the strings. We were not disappointed! The short ribs dish was also smaller than I expected but again, delicious. I was afraid it wouldn't be enough to fill us up but it was just enough. The strings were curly and lightly sprinkled with a reddish seasoning and parsley.
I easily found green p street parking right outside. The service was friendly and attentive. Our server answered all the questions we had and gladly provided us with a hotter hot sauce and additional salsa when we asked. I will be back!