One of the activities we look forward to is taking a quick road trip to an appealing destination. This week, Mike looked at a map and chose Monte Argentario, a small peninsula in Toscana (Tuscany). About two and a half hours west of us, the drive proved to be fascinating, going and coming. Who knew the view would be different on the other side of the highway?
When we arrived, it was lunchtime, so we searched for a recommended place. We placed the destination into our navigator right past the road we should have turned onto, forcing us to journey around on the “Strada panoramica.” It definitely lived up to its name with views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Casa di Paolo e Rosita was precisely what we wanted. It is a local place on the bottom floor of an apartment building in an industrial part of Porto S. Stefano. Most of the tables were taken with workers enjoying a mid-day meal, but after we called to make sure it was open, the owner set up a two-seater and placed a reserved sign on it. How nice to feel expected and welcomed.
Paolo brought a basket of Tuscan Bread and half litre of local white wine. Umbrian bread is made without salt and is somewhat dry. This yumminess was fresh, light, with a dark crust. The dry, fruity wine hit the spot. We ordered Filetti di Triglia all’arancia (mullet with orange sauce) and roasted potatoes (think slices of french fries) – all great. Rosita made panna cotta for dessert but uses eggs whites to thicken avoiding the “jelly” like texture of others I have eaten. It is quite a treat to locate what you didn’t realize you wanted and have such an enjoyable dining experience. Unfortunately one large meal is all I can eat so no dinner that night.
Our hotel provided a view of the bay and very comfortable sleeping arrangements. After a morning walk around the docks, we headed back home, curious as to where we will end up next.
