ARRIVEDERCI

When I hear the word “Hillcrest,” the first thought that comes to mind is the plethora of gay bars all boasting bartenders in teeny tiny shorts, giving out lap dances to all the inebriated females in the room — this coming from what my gay neighbor tells me about his work. But set aside the given stereotype for this neighborhood and you can actually find some unique restaurants boasting delectable cuisine and luscious bottles of vino.

From the moment upon entering Arrivederci Ristorante, the quaint Italian restaurant located in the heart of Hillcrest, you are greeted by classical Italian decor and a most charming ambiance. With a street side patio for a people-watching session or a cozy dinner inside among the glow of romantic lighting and friendly waiters with thick Italian accents, it’s easy to say that Arrivederci is undoubtedly on par with the abundance of Italian restaurants lined up and down India Street in Little Italy.

If you’re like me and can’t resist the melt-in-your-mouth flavor of good calamari, then I highly suggest digging into the Calamari Caruso, sautéed with white wine, tomato and fresh spinach for your appetizer.

Like carbs? Arrivederci has an array of mouthwatering pasta dishes such as the Mezzelune all’Aragosta, half-moon shaped ravioli filled with lobster in a saffron cream sauce, or the Penne Tirreno, penne pasta with julienne eggplant, zucchini, sun-dried tomato and sheep cheese.

If you want a little more of a traditional Italian dish (that you probably will have to have one of the hunky waiters pronounce for you), then try the Pollo Millegusti, a chicken breast stuffed with imported cheese and spinach in a wild mushroom sauce.

If you’re an extreme health nut, I wouldn’t suggest Arrivederci for a date night seeing as how the bread basket alone is utterly irresistible. But if you love the flavor of olive oil and fresh gnocchi, then Arrivederci is the perfect place to indulge.

Before going, I suggest you make a reservation, because the line to get a table is always out the door.

3845 Fourth Ave. • San Diego • CA • 92103

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