Osteria Monte Grappa Menu

Osteria Monte Grappa Restaurant Review:

Co-owners Stefano and Tammi Bernardi moved their delightful little restaurant from an Ojai side street to the town’s main drag, replacing their former pizzeria at the downtown location. In its new spot, Osteria Monte Grappa attracts more walk-in traffic but loses a touch of that isolated charm. The Northern Italian fare still hits the mark, however, and the back patio offers an al fresco alternative to the cavernous main room. Chef Cesar Bello makes good use of the Ojai Valley’s bounty of organic produce, taming hearty entrées like stewed quail and pork sausage with sautéed local greens and polenta. An otherwise well-executed mushroom risotto is buried in a landslide of earthy flavors; indeed, the drizzle of white truffle oil is overkill for all but the bravest palates. On Ojai’s sizzling afternoons, a glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or an icy Italian lager pairs well with light dishes like angel hair pasta tossed with local tomatoes and fresh basil. In addition to the usual post-meal Italian suspects like tiramisu and espresso, you’ll find cheesecake topped with homemade whipped cream, and seasonal desserts that may include a pear tart.