...is definitely a feeling of family and community
We stepped into dream world last night which exists, completely tucked away from present day, on Ocean Avenue in San Francisco. It is a family style Italian restaurant called Villa D' Este. This is a 1950s dining experience wrapped up in a beautiful 1930s art deco package. It felt like we were walking into the set of some Busby Berkeley musical. Two huge plaster chandeliers were hanging from the crimson red ceiling, while sculpted columns framed the rectangular dining room. There is definitely a feeling of family and community. Many of the diners were regulars, including a charming 103-year-old lady. Everyone applauded as she departed from the restaurant. On Friday nights there is skilled pianist accompanying a gracious singer by the name of Johnnie, who invited people to come up and sing. The meal was totally retro, as were the prices. The full course meal includes salad, soup, an antipasto course, and the entrée, along with coffee and ice cream for $22. This is not high cuisine but it did make me feel like a kid again, having a big Italian meal with my family. I even ordered spumoni ice cream for dessert, something that I haven't had for more than 40 years. You absolutely can taste memories.