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| - We ended up at Chinato last night at the recommendation of my sister-in-law, who had been there once before. Our party of six was seated immediately, sans reservation, (a big bonus at 8:00 on a Saturday night) in nice booth near the window. The atmosphere is dark and moderately trendy, yet understated and nice, as one might expect from any E 4th establishment.
After ordering drinks, I had a nice glass of Shiraz, we all took a look at the menu (which is rather larger, but what Italian restaurant doesn't have a big menu?). Unfortunately, none of us found the offers available with the restaurant week three course prix fixe menu interesting...they should really rethink that.
Regardless, I started with the Fennel Salad, which was good, but I have had fantastic fennel salads elsewhere, and with a $10 price tag I think it left a lot to be desired. I'm not sure if it was the dressing, or the fennel itself, but I couldn't really get that flavor that I am accustomed to when eating it. One of my companions had the Tuscan Onion soup and it looked awesome, I would definitely start with it next time! For an entree I opted for the 1/2 portion of the gnocci. Oh wow. It was buttery deliciousness! Though, I do agree that it could have been a bit heavier on the garlic and little lighter on the butter. But the gnocci themselves melted in my mouth, the texture was spot-on! I had several forks other than my own diving in for a second taste! The 1/2 size was perfect, though I'm sure I could have done a pretty good number on a full order...you know, if I *had* to... We were all too full to order dessert, but I agree with others that the menu looked awesome.
I have to mention that I found the service to be one of the best parts of my experience there. Our server was very nice and attentive, without being overbearing, and he welcomed all of our questions. Honestly, without him Chinato might have only received three stars from me.
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