Arturo Boada's - Galleria Area - Italian

Menu Selections:  House Salad, Grilled Snapper Special

Nestled in a shopping center on the side street of Del Monte (off of Voss), is a quaint Italian place that I had stumbled on.  Upon entry, the lack of people let me know that this is either more of dinner place, or due to its’ location, a neighborhood spot that only the locals in the area know about.  Whatever the reason, it certainly wasn’t because of the superb experience I had.

The place was relatively small in size, however, the Italian charm permeated throughout.  Rustic colors such as red, orange and yellow were in found in abundance surrounding the crisp white tablecloths.  The wood burning stove located in the corner further heightened the charm by filling the air with aromas of gooey dough and bubbling cheese. 

The bread on the table had the perfect dusting of garlic and a glaze of butter-it validated the teasing aroma of the place.  The house salad that ensued was lightly coated with an olive oil/lemon dressing and included ripe tomatoes and walnuts.  The snapper filet was simply grilled with a hint of spices, of which I thoroughly enjoyed.  You could actually taste the flavor of the fish, as opposed to many other restaurants that tend to go overboard with seasonings and sauces.  By doing so, they overpower the fish and one can't distinguish what it is, exactly.  It especially helped that the fish was cooked to a juicy temperature.  The vivid "Christmas colors"garnish for the fish included green arugula, red tomato, white slivers of parmesan, and white chunky lump crabmeat; it all made for one gorgeous sight. 

To top everything off, the service was immaculate.  The server was very attentive and catered to our every need.  Even after we declined dessert, she came by with a free tasting of crème brulee and a strawberry.  Above and beyond. 

Will I be back?  I could eat here every day.