CHIReview
photo credit: Christina Slaton
Topo Gigio Ristorante
Topo Gigio is a small neighborhood spot that serves Italian food with gusto. In Old Town that doesn’t mean cheap prices, but they more than make up for it with white tablecloths, a casual vibe, and accommodating staff. Altogether, it’s what makes Topo Gigio the wrong place for no one. Dinner with your family? Perfect. First date? Even better. There’s something about the atmosphere that makes everyone purple-toothed and giggly no matter who you’re with.
The food is solid, with appetizers like steamed clams, plenty of pasta, and mains like and saltimbocca alla parmigiana. Dishes come with fresh mozzarella, and vegetables that actually taste like vegetables. There’s also a long seafood selection, which, unbeknownst to Olive Garden, is actually a thing in Tuscany.
And what good is a charming Italian restaurant without throwing around the term al fresco? Luckily, Topo Gigio has a great patio to sip wine on during the summer, plus a heated inner garden area in the colder months that makes it one of our favorite semi-outdoor situations year round.
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Food Rundown
Steamed Mussels and Clams with Calabrese Sausage
The only thing better than mussels are mussels with house-cured hot sausage. It also wins the longest name contest.
Linguine alla “Vic Damone”
For transparency’s sake, we Googled “Who is Vic Damone.” He’s a singer, and his pasta is light and delicious. We’re officially fans.
Saltimbocca alla Parmigiana
Veal wrapped in prosciutto, which basically means wrapped in happiness. The parmigana version is served with red sauce and melted cheese. It’s delicious.
Saltimbocca alla Romana
Same idea as above, but wit a sage white wine sauce instead of red sauce and cheese. Pick your poison, they’re both delicious.
Whitefish al Limone e Capperi
Rich, delicate, and simply prepared.
Tiramisu
You’ve already eaten so much… Why not.
