Just steps from the Hilton, we found an elegant and delicious lunch at Baci Trattoria. Sharing the building with the Café Pierpoint, Bacci contrasts the informal Mexican cafe with a stylish high-end restaurant. The entry is striking. A long galley of vaulted arches runs from the front door to a staircase at the rear of the building surmounted by a large clock. These classical architectural lines are decorated in a contemporary style using patterned wood flooring, paneled walls and muted yellow and black paint. On the right is the kitchen, partially visible. On the left, openings in the arches lead to the bar and dining area. Also on the left, separating the main gallery from the back of the bar are thirty foot tall stained glass windows with contemporary designs. In the dining room, which also runs the length of the building, the bar anchors the center of the room. At either end, wooden raised floors step up with seating on each level. Large windows and colorful canvas awnings provide plenty of light. In all, the surroundings build expectations for an excellent meal, and the food answers the challenge.
Balsamic vinegar and olive oil awaits you at the table for dipping a variety of appetizer breads. We ordered lasagna, free range chicken breast with sautéed spinach and wild mushrooms and scaloppini of Wisconsin Veal (con Gamberi). The lasagna was served in a hot metal skillet with hunks of garlic bread. This typical dish was untypically good with a well chosen set of seasonings and cheeses. My wife’s spinach salad was topped with crisped green onions…they added a distinct and delicious note to an otherwise standard appetizer. The chicken and sauce were savory and delicious, the skin crisped and slightly charred for added texture and flavor. The veal was equally satisfying with a covering of crab meat (requested as an alternative to the standard shrimp) and artichoke hearts.
Baci is owned by the same company as the Market Street Oyster Bar, so go to www.gastronomyinc.com for more details.