By Melissa Wynn

[media-credit name=”The Italian Cottage” align=”alignleft” width=”300″][/media-credit] Sometimes dining out can seem like the same old, hum drum, cookie cutter menu and décor.  So when my friend Marilyn and I had a chance to go to lunch in Chico, we decided to go to The Italian Cottage. This favorite of the locals is anything but average. Walking through the door filled my senses with all the best Italian has to offer. Grapevines and fairy lights surround the dark wooden booths and the artwork reminded me how famous the Italians are for loving wine. Aromas of garlic and a slow simmering sauce invited me to sit down and bring my appetite. I was instantly smitten by the sawdust on the floor, no cookie cutter décor here. Each smiling server is adorably clad in peasant garb from the Italy of antiquity. How fun is that!

Our lovely server Melissa appeared immediately to quench our thirst with a wonderfully tart lemonade for me and a tall glass of iced tea for my guest. Perhaps the most difficult part of a visit to the Italian Cottage is deciding what to order. I finally settled on the meatball sub, a divine sandwich on a soft Italian roll, heaped with meatballs and smothered with cheese and savory marinara sauce. Too yummy! Marilyn went all out and tried the homemade lasagna that made The Italian Cottage famous with the luxurious layers of meat and melting cheeses. Oh my, Oh my.  Everyone has a favorite Italian dish and this amazing dining choice in Chico has them all. Whether you are into pizza, pasta, salads, soups or just good old fashion garlic bread and wine, this is the place to be.

Not into the “vino?” No worries, The Italian Cottage also boasts a full service bar with all your favorite beers and cocktails. They can even cater all their delicious fare at your next meeting or event. Bring a friend and break away from the norm with an Italian adventure in dining with Robyn and the crew at one of Chico’s finest, the charming and homey Italian Cottage.

 

The Italian Cottage

2234 Esplanade

Chico, CA

(530) 343-7000

www.theitaliancottage.com