Casa Modena

I was very fortunate to be included in Gary's "Despedida" (social event to mark a person's departure/going away) for Sandi. He picked Casa Modena, where he has dined previously, and raved about the food, particularly the truffles! Lucky for me, Sandi likes truffles!

We got there early so we could really appreciate the ambiance. The whimsical decor was fascinating; the tables were once used to make pasta. Handmade plates with various designs/restaurant names were hanging on the walls. Old pictures and posters of different Italian cities also were on the colorful wall. There was a bicycle hanging from the ceiling. They also had some truffles in a jar for sale. I particularly loved the sign on what they do not serve.

We left the ordering to Gary. He first ordered a nice bottle of Barolo. He forgot that Sandi does not drink; oh well...more for us two to drink.  He thought the the Black Truffle Menu would be best. This prix-fixe included a 4-course meal. Sandi ordered the Truffle French Fries which she promised to share, Gary and I had the Crostino con Burrata & Tartufo. These 2 appetizers had shaved black truffles. They were delicious. We all thought the fries could have used more salt but that was not a problem at all. Our server, William was happy to oblidge. 

All 3 of us ordered the Tagliolini al Tartufo for our pasta dish. This almost made me want to weep. It was heavenly! Gary and I did add some Parmesano which made us want to sing "Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah". For our main dish, we all selected the Filetto al Tartufo con Puree di Patate. Excellent steak cooked to perfection with amazing mashed potatoes.

The Panna Cotta al Balsamico Tartufato was the best Panna Cotta I've had in my life, and I've had a few. I was disappointed that I didn't meet the man himself, Umberto. Gary had met him and apparently is a character. He was in Italy purchasing truffles which he supplies to various restaurants. We did meet his charming wife who came to say hello. William, our server was great; service was impeccable. 

I can't wait to return to Casa Modena. It's located at 11701 Wilshire Blvd. in Los Angeles. It's in the Brentwood Place Center on the second floor. They also have outdoor dining which looked inviting, especially at night.