I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a bit of a food snob after living in New York for four years. But it’s not just about the quality of food; sometimes it’s about that feeling of dinner being the main event. San Diego is decidedly more casual and far less rabid about its food scene than New Yorkers, but it was like a breath of fresh air to eat at Bencotto in Little Italy this week. It was there that I finally felt that same excitement about eating out.
Bathed in red and black colors (my favorite combo!), Bencotto has that inviting feel like it would be perfectly acceptable to settle into a four-hour dinner. The longer, the better in my opinion. It’s the kind of place where you wouldn’t seem out of place for getting dolled up, and frankly, I had been missing that now that I work from home and log more time in sweatpants than jeans. So thank, you, Bencotto, for giving my skirts and heels some air-time.
Pasta is the name of the game here and it’s made fresh daily. (Personally, I think you might as well eat at home and save your money unless the pasta’s made fresh.) Apart from the a la carte options, you can also pick a type of pasta and type of sauce for $13. It’s a great deal considering the huge portions; one plate could easily turn into a two- or three-meal affair.
If you know what’s good for ya, you’ll go with the arrabbiata sauce. It’s spicy and garlic-y and way more interesting than a regular tomato-based sauce. (The pesto was a bit oily for my taste though.) And even though it’s a heavier choice, the gnocchi just melts in your mouth. It was probably the best I’ve ever had. Not a huge shocker since Bencotto recently received the Q award, a symbol of authenticity and significant contribution to the world heritage of Italy.
We got a little fancy and also ordered an appetizer from the specials menu (zucchini blossoms stuffed with ricotta and smoked mozzarella, which were just as divine as they sound) and dessert (a pistachio semifreddo with sour cherries, which was like a cool cross between gelato and Taiwanese shaved ice.) Safe to say, we went home with a giant doggy bag.
Bencotto Italian Kitchen | 750 W. Fir Street | 619.450.4786
I want to try that arrabbiata sauce. It sounds yummy especially because I love garlic! Next time I visit San Diego I am definitely going to check out some of the places you talk about, they all look so good!
I found your blog via my cousin’s girlfriend, Carling! She said she met you at the conference the other day and told me to check out your blog!
If you love garlic, you will love that arrabbiata sauce, Danielle. So glad you found my blog and thanks for reading!