The Tempest

Issue date: 3/5/08 Section: Entertainment

Media Credit: Malerie Paynter Vintage Caffe offers all the classics.

The remote intersection of Mankas Corner Rd. and Suisun Valley Rd. was the last place I expected to experience an above-average Italian dinner, not to mention an intimate atmosphere and a not-too-ridiculous ticket, but Vintage Caffé is a surprising little restaurant.

After my friends and I were ushered through the more casual breakfast/lunch room, we were seated in a comfortably semi-formal area, and immediately received attention from our Italian-accented server, who was prompt, knowledgeable, and perfectly in keeping with the atmosphere of the place, subservient demeanor and all.

The menu at Vintage Caffé features a full list of gourmet antipasti (appetizers, for the common folk), specialty salads in the $7 to $12 range, pasta, seafood, and steak. Entrees are priced anywhere from $8 to $25, with the steak selection being most expensive, and basic pasta dishes toward the lower end.

The Ravioli Sampler is excellent, and the perfect size to split. Three types of ravioli - crab, butternut squash, and my favorite, red pepper and gorgonzola cheese - are beautifully presented, with a flavorful sauce of fresh tomatoes and basil on top.

A more hearty choice is the Spaghetti Con Polpettine, a full plate of pasta and homemade meatballs, slathered with garlicky, Bolognese meat sauce.

Although the food is undeniably impressive, the highlight of the meal for everyone at my table was the homemade bread served as an antipasti. Crusty, moist, dense… dipped in balsamic vinaigrette, it makes The Olive Garden's famed breadsticks seem like saltine crackers.

Our dinner was topped off by the restaurant's specialty tiramisu, which was so good I forgot to take a picture before diving in. The server also offered a Lemon Drop Cheesecake and Cannelloni with ricotta cheese and honey.

Overall, I had a highly satisfactory experience at Vintage Caffé. In terms of price, quality, selection, and atmosphere, the restaurant met or exceeded my expectations. When you go, try to enjoy a full meal, but at the very least, order something that comes with the bread.

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