Totally Unauthorized

The ruling junta of the Diablo Valley Bridge Center.

Out to dinner tonight with the big shots from the Bridge Center–Iris, Gail and Barbara.  They let me come along to drive and open doors.

We went to Postino, the old standby restaurant in Lafayette.  For a long time it was the Tourelle Cafe, now it’s Postino.  Same beautiful stone building, slate floors, Italianate decor.  When we want the full restaurant experience right here, Postino is where we go.

The food is as modern as today–local, sustainable products prepared with an expert eye to presentation as well as taste.

Pan seared white bass on basil mashed potatoes. Note the little red things to add the perfect color.

Since Mike B. wasn’t with us, I could order the Insalata Di Cavoletti, brussels sprouts sautéed in brown butter with pancetta and hazelnuts.  I guess it’s unwise to feel too virtuous about eating your veggies when they’re smothered in brown butter, but they sure taste good.

Then I had the dish above–nicely prepared bass, in a beautiful sea of bright green basil mashed spuds.  Ordering the fish makes me feel sanctimonious, even as I reach for more bread and butter.

Gail had the risotto and meatballs, Barbara enjoyed the linguine with clams and Iris had the same fish as I did.

Service is top notch.  I still don’t like it when places serve some weird concoction they call “iced tea”, but they had no problem bringing me a pot of Earl Grey and a couple of glasses of ice, so I’ll forgive them.

Postino is first rate modern Italian fare, apparently a good wine list, reasonable prices and fine service.  That’s why it’s the old standby.

Postino

3565 Mt. Diablo Bl, Lafayette

on Opentable for reservations