Favorites in Berkeley: Paisan - Great Italian Dishes & Mixed Drinks
Patrick and I cook dinner every single weekday with the exception of the occasional lazy Friday when we don't want to lift a finger. Last Friday was a lazy one and we decided to hit up our favorite Italian restaurant, Paisan, located in Berkeley.
We love this place because:
- The mixed drinks are amazing! The selection of bourbon is fantastic (good spread from Four Roses to high-end Willets). I am in love with the "Reconstructed Manhattan" (Bulleit Rye Whiskey, Dubbonet Rouge, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, S. Maria al Monte Amaro) and "Amaretto Sour" (Disaronno, Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Sugar, Egg White & Fresh Lemon Juice).
- The food is always seasonal, delicious and consistent.
- The service is personable and friendly - worth over-tipping. The staff is attentive without being bothersome.
- The space is awesome - small, cozy, and has a nice outdoor seating area.
On our last visit, Patrick and I ordered the Wood Oven Roasted Half Chicken (organic chicken roasted with garlic served with arugula, frisee, shaved fennel, dried apricots, cherries, toasted almonds with a citrus & golden balsamic vinaigrette) and Pappardelle Bolognese (house-made pasta, beef & pork ragu with fresh ricotta & parmesan). We also had a delicious butter beans and tomatoes side dish. The night finished with a tasty blueberry-peach tart.
The meal was a solid 5 stars - best roasted chicken I've ever had. Here are some photos I captured via iPhone:
