One of the most elegant things about the Amalfi restaurant is its doors; the picture below will underscore that statement! Since its acquisition by the Mobedshashi family, which also owns the Hyatt St. Claire in San Jose, there have been major renovations in this hotel and its restaurant. Amalfi is listed as an Italian steakhouse, but it does go further than that in that you have an entire gamut of hot and cold appetizers, salads including tri-colore and spinach, and pasta entrées in addition to the grilled meats and fish.

I’m not necessarily a meat person, but Chuck is. Have a look at this man’s dinner: a pepper-crusted filet mignon, which is a bit too red for my taste, with cabernet-sparked mashed potatoes and a gorgonzola-red wine sauce; more wine is visible in front of the entrée, and I can tell you it’s not mine!

People have been coming to the Grille for apparently quite sometime, and have a real appreciation for the food. This is a tribute to Chef Bill Ruiz who specializes in creative dishes inspired by Italy with a California twist. The bread is always a feast in itself, and we have always sworn that we could have a meal just on that dipped in olive oil.

If you’re vegetarian, you will roll your eyes over the spinach salad: some sweetness comes via the caramelized pecans, pancetta adds the saltiness, mushroom slices and the whole mound is drizzled in a mushroom vinaigrette mixed with white truffle oil.

As with most California restaurants, they take pride in their assortments of wine and serve it by the glass. Service is unhurried and friendly and the food is quite tasty. They also host special events such as Easter brunches and Mother Day’s brunches. Call them for details.