Last week, I had the great pleasure of hosting Tom Leykis at my new home, Locanda del Lago, here on the Santa Monica Promenade, to talk Italian Wine, Food, and the Good Life. We had a fantastic time and enjoyed many an excellent comestible. Wines tasted included: Planeta "La Segreta Bianco" 2010, Ferrari Carano Chardonnay 2010, Lucente (Frescobaldi/Mondavi venture) 2010, and Nino Negri "Sfursat" 2007, a delightful wine from Lombardy which takes Nebbiolo grapes and dries them out "Amarone-style" for four months. An intruiging and unique wine, to be sure! The show can be heard here: http://tastingwithtom.com/weekend-10-13-12
What makes Lago so unique is that we are not your typical "Mom and Pop, spaghetti and meatballs joint" so many of us grew up on in the states. The owner and Michelin-starred Chef are from Lombardy in the North and have committed to making Lago entirely authentic. Locanda del Lago means "Inn on the Lake" in Italian. We specialize in Northern Italian Cuisine from Bellagio on Lake Como in Lombardy. We source authentic products like Prosciutto di Parma, Arborio Rice, and Parmesan Cheese. The cuisine and style are reminiscent of the Lake Como/Bellagio area from whence they hail. Additionally, there is a strong commitment to Organic, Sustainable, and Farm-to-Table philosophies. We do all our produce shopping from the Santa Monica Farmers' Market twice a week. All pastas, foccacia, gelatos, and pastries are made in-house. Hardcore foodies will be thrilled to know that our seafood is sustainable ocean to plate from Santa Monica Seafood, LA's best source! We also feature Vegan and Gluten-free menus for those discerning Guests who prefer it. And for the serious oenophile, our wine list features over 400 selections, all Italian and California, including verticals of the finest "Super-Tuscans" as well as great older vintages of Napa's best Cabernets and Meritage blends. At reasonable prices, too! Lots of half bottles round out the list, and a half-price wine night on Wednesdays make Lago a stop not to be missed by lovers of the grape. For lovers of the grain, we do an incredible array of handcrafted artisinal cocktails that will enliven the tastebuds and sooth the soul! There is something for everybody at Locanda del Lago. From great food and great wine to the beautiful setting on the Santa Monica Promenade. Check out the website at www.lagosantamonica.com for more info.
