5 Stars: Mangia! Mangia! (by When the Lights G.)

When the Lights G. — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 08:33:00 GMT

That's right, enjoy eating in this authentic Italian restaurant located in the Mission on 16th street.

Enjoy a glass of vino as you peruse your menu complete with a variety of delicious choices ranging of antipasta.

Choose your main dish known as "primi" from a wide range of pastas like penne, rigatoni, lasagna, and fettucini.

The portions are typical for a true Italian dinner, so if you're accustomed to over-sized portions Americans are notorious for, you may need to consider ordering a side dish "secondi" like prosciutto, carpacchio, or mixed vegetables. Be sure to ask your server if any pommes frittes (Italian version of French Fries) are available. Yes, I said French Fries, but these are much healthier and no doubt tastier than anything you've had at a drive-thru.

I doubt you'll miss the Italian accents from the staff since it seems like all of them, at least when I've been there, are Italian immigrants. They're hip, young, and dedicated to creating the right balance of an Italian atmosphere suitable for a business dinner meeting, a night out with friends, or that special night with that romantic someone. They're proud of their Italian cuisine and culture and they enjoy sharing it with their diners.

End the night with gelato for desert along with some gourmet Ilily espresso. Or you may want to try the desert liquor, Lemoncello. This is especially helpful in digesting those pasta carbs.

Finally, something that little something that sets Il Cantuccio apart from anywhere I've ever been is your bill is accompanied by a small cup of Gummi Bears that just may hit the spot if you don't have room for desert.

I hope you find my review helpful and thanks for reading! Buon Appetito!

Il Cantuccio Ristorante | 3228 Sixteenth Street | San Francisco CA 94103 | p.415.861.3899 | cantucciosf@hotmail.com
www.cantucciosf.com

Pros:
* Authentic Italian cuisine.
* Nice selection of wines and dishes on the menu.
* Dedicated and friendly staff.

Cons:
* Difficult parking on busy nights.

Insider Pages Reviews for Ii Cantuccio

5 Stars: Mangia! Mangia! (by When the Lights G.)