Who knew this intimate, romantic restaurant was a block away from my house? Not me, that is, until yesterday. If you're into upscale Italian cusine, Locanda is the place for you. There are two tiny dining rooms; we like
the second one! There were four of us and we started off with wonderful wine from the extensive wine list. For appetizers we enjoyed the Frittura di Calamari, crispy calamari and shrimp accompanied by a homemade marinara for dipping. The sauce was delicious
and calamari and shrimp were perfectly cooked! We devoured the Carpaccio de Manzo, thinly sliced free-range top round beef, with baby arugula and freshly shaved parmesan. We also had the Insalata di Barbabietole with organic red and gold beets, wild arugula,
goat cheese, and balsalmic dressing. One of us had the Pappardelle pasta with wild boar, spinach, and a red wine reduction sauce. It's a bit on the sweet side, so if you are a savory person, you'd best order another dish. The Linguine alle Vongole Veraci was
out of this world. Filled with Manila clams, garlic and olive oil, this dish was a hit. Scallops were served with spinach and mushrooms, smoked bacon, and a wine reduction sauce. Can you say "Capesante Mari e Monti." Yeah, neither can I! I had the Tagliata
di Manzo. Now this is one of my favorite dishes and I order it any chance I get. The grilled New York steak was juicy and the combination of the arugula and the lemon vinaigrette was outstanding. For dessert we enjoyed the tiramisu made with fresh mascarpone,
lafyfingers, and Belgian chocolate, and the homemade gelato. I can't say enough about Locanda Positano...oh but I will mention...the service is excellent too! 4059 Lincoln Blvd, Venice. (310) 526-3887. Mon-Thurs. 5:30-10:00 p.m. Friday/Saturday 5:30-10:30
p.m. and Sunday 5:00 -10:00 p.m.