Il Valletto

Posted by Kathryn @ 10:37 AM

Today I had a networking lunch with someone who helped me find a job here in Pittsburgh. As she had been a student at CMU but had not been around campus much recently she recommended that we check out Il Valletto on Forbes. She couldn't quite remember the name, only that some of the guys at school called it "Romantic's." Which I suppose is a fitting name from a college student's perspective. Il Valletto is right about Panther Hollow next to a vintage clothing store. I had peered in the window several times and wondered about this curiousity that combines card tables and folding chairs with white table clothes.

My friend was held up looking for a place to park, so I had a chance to peruse the menu and note the special prix fixe options for Valentines Day. While I don't think is on my romantic list, it was a good lunch option in Oakland. I had the veal and pancetta tortellini in vodka sauce with a cup of spicy white bean soup. The soup was not spicy as advertised, but had good flavor and was perfect on such a chilly day. The tortellini was generously sized, with a nice flavor, but also did not knock my socks off. So for an average italian meal at a student size price, Il Valletto's is a place to consider.

Lunch at Palomino

Posted by Kathryn @ 8:55 PM

A recent business lunch brought me to Palomino at the Gateway Center. On arrival I was surprised at how appealing the chain restaurant appeared. Despite not having reservations at a popular noon time slot, the staff graciously found us a table. While Palomino has a downtown fine dining price point, they do offer several lunch combo options that won't break the bank from $11-13.  These options include half sandwich, cup of soup, salads, and pasta. I chose the penne gorgonzola with hazelnuts and the portabella mushroom soup. In a matter of minutes the servers were back with complementary bread and marinara. Before my lunch partner and I could finish the tasty bread, the food had arrived. The staff at Palomino don't waste time, which is appreciated by a busy business diner like myself. I hope the dinner service is a bit more relaxed.

The penne gorgonzola had good flavor that was nicely complemented by the toasted nuts, but I felt it needed a fresh herb or vegetable to brighten the dish and add complexity.  Similarly the cream of mushroom was acceptable but not outstanding, it would be greatly improved by the addition of wild mushrooms.  My first experience at Palomino, definitely made me want to come back for dinner to check out if their $20+ dollar entrees have more wow factor.  The ambience and service made for a perfect and quick business lunch.