Rivoli Restaurant

This place is fantastic.

I bring my parents to Rivoli's when it's a special occasion. I think the past two times I have gone were on my dad's birthday. I called ahead to make reservations and informed them that it was my dad's b-day. They put just a sprinkle of confetti on our table. I think it made my dad feel special. :)

The decor and the ambiance is relaxed and refined. There is a huge window in place of the back wall that overlooks a garden. The window lets in a lot of natural light and the garden sets the mood for the food that they serve. While the name suggests Italian food, the menu certainly speaks to California cuisine. The service is always excellent here - knowledgeable, polite, and friendly.

Each entree is unique and has its own special blend of flavors and side dishes. You can really tell that the chef puts a lot of thought in creating each dish. I'll just paste some of the entrees here from the menu so you can see what I mean. These are dishes that my dad and my mom ordered:

grilled blue nose sea bass with grilled eggplant, summer squash and tomato gratin, roasted peppers, creamy parmesan polenta, olive , aoli and chervil butter

Moroccan plate with grilled lamb mechouia, duck b'steeya and merguez sausage with cucumber and carrot salad, saffron couscous couscous and mint yogurt

It's always fun to sample each other's food and let me tell you, everything is delicious and well prepared.

Posted 08/16/09 | Report Abuse

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We have never had anything but great meals at Rivoli. Everything is interesting, imaginative, FRESH and well-prepared. We especially like the accommodating staff when we turn up without a reservation. Great for a romantic dinner for two, or a special meal for a family or group event. Best to book ahead - they are always busy. Dining room overlooks a pretty garden, but we often sit in the small bar area where we can watch all the action.

Posted 10/28/08 | Report Abuse

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This place is fantastic. They consistently provide inventive, flawlessly executed, and seasonal cuisine. Their wine list is superb and the atmosphere impeccable.

Their desserts are always awesome!

I have had many special occasions and am always ready to take out-of-town visitors here.

It's somewhat of a hidden gem as it doesn't get nearly the hype and exposure as other Berkeley restaurants. In my opinion it is generally as good or better than any game in town.

Five stars for sure.

Posted 10/24/07 | Report Abuse

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Why wait for Chez Panisse when you can visit Rivoli again and again (especially since it's much less expensive). The food here is wholesome, fresh, and organic. Their menu rotates every 3 weeks (http://www.rivolirestaurant.com/) and has appetizers and entrees for everyone, including vegetarian and fresh seafood selections. I considerate a treat to come here and eat.An added bonus is the secret garden in the bank which gives the restaurant a home like feel.Reservations are recommended.

Posted 06/27/06 | Report Abuse

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I've never had a bad meal in all the years going to this fabulous little restaurant. Enter into the dining room in the back, and you feel like you're in someone's home. You look back into a yard, sometimes with cats or racoons (cute).

The Portobello mushroom fritters are simply to die for. There is always an amazing house made pasta, and the poultry is perfect.

Desserts delight.

Prices are medium (high), but so well worth it.

Posted 08/14/05 | Report Abuse

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