Osteria Zio Tobia In Tortoreto

29/07/2024: Greeted by Chef Allesandro & manager Melissa we knew we were about to enjoy an evening of Abruzze` culinary excellence & charm. And so we did. A warm humid night, the outdoor tables were set with a sunset view of the gardens. Our chief waiter asked for Chef’s assistance with our "anglaise" ordering. Our starter of "chef’s fancy" contained select arancini, perfectly breaded & fried codfish, mozzarella sticks, cheese & a puff potato,served on a board! Next for me, a specially prepared pappardelle of duck ragu. A rich sauce with freshlly made al dente pasta that enhanced the smoky essence of tender duck. A mushroom rissoto with truffles was earthy and paired well with the Sirio Montpulciano from master chef's San Lorenzo vineyard. Wished we could take this home. I wanted to try the local lamb and was rewarded with grilled rib chops a la Abruzze`. Uniquely different from the garlicy lemon lamb of Greece but tasty in its own right. Dessert of tiramissu, biscotti, panetta with a special regional liquor, SantElmo, to complete our tour. Chef A came out from his extremely busy kitchen to make sure everything was to our liking. And we had a quick chat on his training & aspirations. His personal touch of ambiance enhanced our dining experience and convinced us, he is the "real deal." Our successful waltz through Il Retrovo's Abruzze` traditional fare suggests readers should not miss this gem of a restaurant and its marvellous staff. We will surely return.. Btw plenty of parking. The Serne location is near to many Adriatic coast resors & hotels. Il Retrovo is also an event setting; formal, business or family! Check their elegant website.

11/07/2024: Eccellenza sulla piazza. Cibo di qualità e servizio di primo livello. Superconsigliato sia per famiglie sia per amici