When Ted made our reservation for our usual table of three at Cesare Ristorante, I thought it was going to be a solid end to an easy going day. However, when the day arrived, I was hit with a substantial blow earlier in the day that left me stunned. Sometimes, change happens when you least expect it. And even though you see the result as completely positive for all involved, it still brings you to your knees. So, I walked into Cesare Ristorante with a deep need for connection and friendship over delicious food.
Our waiter, with his heavy Italian accent, was a delight. When Ted asked me to taste his wine, I was shocked by how much I didn’t like it. Yes, wine has a distinct flavor profile for different people. But that glass – was unlike anything I would expect Ted to order. I was honest – I told him I didn’t like it. He agreed and asked me to try and get a more, well rounded wine that was juicy more than dry and had a full body of character.
So, when our waiter came back to our table, I challenged him: what was a glass of wine that fit all of the characterization of our desires? He gave me one glass of wine – which was good – but I asked him if there was one with just a bit more body and a little less dry? When he poured a taste of Justin Winery’s 2022 CABERNET SAUVIGNON, I was shocked. Some cheap ass Target wine? Yet - just like my experience at Korbel California Champagne Cellars - just because a wine is mass produced and well known, doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s also trash. In this case, the bottle of Justin that we ordered was just - good. And it was actually delicious and actually what we all wanted to drink and enjoy. Why? Because it was the best solution to the taste dynamics of the meal.
Once Sara arrived, conversation got in the way of ordering. But, only for a little bit. Casually, I began to gather our interests in what we each desired. And then, I ordered for the table.
First out was the Focaccina al Rosmarino (pinsa with rosemary and olive oil) along with the Prosciutto pizza (Roccos favorite mozzarella di bufala and prosciutto di Parma).
Next to arrive was Polpette della Nonna Tina (grandmother Tina’s meatballs in a marinara sauce). The tenderness, house made goodness of the meat was outstanding.
Our main course duo – the Bolognese (sauce with tagliatelle) and the Vongole (spaghetti with fresh baby clams) were absolutely outstanding.
Now, I will say - if you have a reservation before 7pm, you will have to pay $15 to valet park. You can circle for side meters. But, at a certain point, you will give up and submit to your fate. The restaurant is across the street from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and in a particular part of Beverly Hills where you need permit to freely park outside of the meters. But, with the mindset of “that’s just how it is”, I was able to not get as annoyed. I mean, I paid $20 for parking at Giorgio Baldi. And the food there was worth it. Just like at Cesare Ristorante.
Overall, my night out with our “8th Grade Dinner Club” trio was a well needed experience of delicious food, great conversation and well needed relaxation during a night out in Los Angeles.
Cesare Ristorante
8636 W 3rd StreetLos Angeles, California 90048
