THIS RESTAURANT HAS CHANGED LOCATIONS Osteria Monte Grappa

THIS RESTAURANT HAS CHANGED LOCATIONS Osteria Monte Grappa Restaurant Review:

This Ojai eatery is designed for dining al fresco. The interior space is tiny, with just a few tables, but the vast, sun-baked patio with its olive trees and umbrellas is an ideal companion to the culinary style. Proprietors Stefano and Tammi Bernardi co-own two other northern Italian restaurants over the hill in Montecito. Chef Cesar Bello, another import from Montecito, makes good use of the Valley’s bounty of organic produce, taming hearty entrées like stewed quail and pork sausage with sautéed local greens and polenta. Lamb chops are grilled to a turn and served with a cool mint pesto. An otherwise well-executed mushroom risotto is buried in a landslide of earthy flavors; indeed, the drizzle of white truffle oil, usually a welcome addition, is overkill for all but the bravest palates. On Ojai’s frequently hot afternoons, a glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or an icy Italian lager like Moretti pairs well with light dishes---think angel hair pasta tossed with ripe local tomatoes and fresh basil, or a variety of panini, each served with a mixed green salad. In addition to 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.