SATELLITE VIEW » Map & video

With a name like the ¨Best of Italy¨, this chic eatery´s cuisine needs no introduction.   Its menu strives to showcase precisely what its name suggests, and the ambience brings you one step closer to la dolce vita.  

 

Everything from the chefs in the kitchen, to the bold black and white images on the walls, by Italian photographer Patricia Bonazinga, promises an authentic experience. It´s possible to go for a light lunch of antipasti and one of the many colorful salads, each named for the particular region of Italy it represents. But after glancing over the menu you may discover that second stomach you never knew you had. A meal beinning with Octopus Carpaccio with pine nuts and orange slices, can be followed by a Shrimp and Asparagus Risotto, and Potato Encrusted Sea Bass for a second plate. Then, of course, there is dessert, prepared to order by the restaurant´s Italian pastry chef (the carmalized Mille-feuille with Chantilly Cream is well worth the fact that you will need to be carted away afterwards).    

 

¨The idea of the restaurant is to show the best of what makes Italy, Italy¨, said Carla Gentili, the restaurants public relations representative. ¨And we want to promote all of the regions, not just one. Because each area is so different and has its own special flavors and personality.¨

 

In order to accomplish this, Best of Italy´s menu changes every Monday so the chefs have an opportunity to offer cuisine from each of their country´s gastronomic epicenters, from Bologna to Napoli and every delicious destination in between.   

 

The ¨Best of Italy¨ also has the best of views. The glass walled dining room means that whether you choose to munch on your buttery Prosciutto Toscano inside, or outside on the patio, you have a front row view as the America´s Cup teams parade to and from the race courses through the canal.

 

As the sun sets you can take your coffee lounging on the white couches on the restaurant´s terrace. Or, stick around into the wee hours for music and cocktails at the lounge bar as the Port´s nightlife shows its colors (the red, white, and green ones of course). 

 

The Best of Italy restaurant is open from 10AM to 12PM for brunch, lunch and dinner. The terrace and bar are open until 3AM. It is located in the South Marina near El Globo (the hot air balloon) and is easily reached via Trans-port or the Aqua-bus. There is also public parking available behind the restaurant.

 

Lauren Richardson