Café Trastevere
825 North Magnolia Ave.
Orlando, FL 32803
www.cafetrastevere.com

This authentic Roman/Italian restaurant is located in downtown Orlando. Trastevere means “across the Tiber”, and is named after Trastevere, Rome, where several cafés, boutiques and clubs are located. The atmosphere is quaint and intimate, where you will enjoy a casual evening with a date or with friends.  The wine list is not as extensive as I’d like, however, the Sangiovese that was ordered went well with the calamari, caprese salad, and three cheese gnocchi that I ordered. The one man staff was friendly (I told you the place was small), although as the only server in the place he seemed to be running back and forth, and at one point he even paused our questions to answer his cell phone.

With respect to the food, the caprese salad did not seem any different than the one I make at home and the tomatoes were not as ripe as one would expect at a restaurant.  I can say that the gnocchi I ordered melted in my mouth, however, it was necessary to add a bit of salt.  I was with a friend of mine and her chicken penne with red peppers and mushrooms was in need of some flavor doctoring as well. I don’t know about anyone else, but unless I am eating eggs at a restaurant, the need for salt, or any seasoning in addition to what the chef used, is not a good sign. I did not stay long enough for dessert so I cannot comment on it.  

Café Trastevere is a good choice in a pinch for a date.  The lighting is great and conversation can be kept low without the music being overbearing. The prices are not too steep but be prepared to spend.  As long as you are with company that you enjoy being around, you will not be disappointed.

Written by Neidre Hines on Thursday, August 6, 2009 

Filed under Beauty and the Eats
Tagged with food, orlando fl, review

Neidre Hines has written a total of 19 article(s) for us.