This appears to be a family-run restaurant run by a very talented chef. Don't be fooled by appearances. Although this restaurant does not feel trendy or even welcoming (decor-wise), the food and service more than makes up for it.
My colleague and I went there for lunch today. The air conditioning did not appear to be working so it was hot inside this already warm summer day (the open kitchen doesn't help). Nevertheless, we decided to eat in. We ordered the daily box lunch (to stay) which consists of a daily sandwich special (today it was a choice of pulled pork or crispy warm veal & cheese - we chose the veal), homemade cookie, fresh fruit and a bottle of water.
The waitress also brought us some homemade foccacia and homemade hummus on the house as we sat down. Both were superb!
Portion sizes are very generous. The veal sandwich is huge and full of fresh ingredients (sauteed mushroom, roasted pepper, caramelized onion, marinara sauce and fontana cheese). I asked for hot sauce since I like everything spicy and it really kicked up the taste of an already great sandwich! I am looking forward to having the second half for lunch tomorrow since there was no way I could finish the entire thing.
Today's fruit of the day was an orange and the homemade cookie was a delicious and soft oatmeal, fruit and nut cookie. Loved it!
I really want this restaurant to succeed. Chef Dan came around to ask if everything was to our liking which was very sweet. I feel good giving him my money, not only because the food is fresh and delicious and the portions are more than generous but because Chef Dan clearly has a passion for food and he highlights locally grown products. If only restaurant makeover would come in and pretty up the place!
Despite the decor (or lack thereof), I will be back.