Elizabeth Daniels 3/12
A quick turnaround for Gusto, the first solo enterprise for former Culina (Four Season Beverly Hills) chef Vic Casanova. Less than one month after the initial announcement, Gusto begins dinner service tomorrow in the former home of W. 3rd Street's Allora Cucina Italiana. What you see is what you get at this unfussy 35-seat restaurant. Off white walls, dark red accents, Allora's exposed beam ceiling, plus simple bistro tables covered in white linens. Minimal art, a few mirrors, and some wall sconces define Gusto. Straightforward, to the point, a blank canvas of sorts to highlight Casanova's rustic Italian plates which he refers to as “Free-Range Italian.”
Casanova's menu draws influence from Piedmont to Puglia, using local produce in dishes like red wine braised baby octopus, black olive, ceci, harissa; duck liver, Marsala, crispy duck skin; Quail treviso, chives, white polenta, sugo; and pork shoulder braised in tomato sauce, and dandelion greens. Pastas are made in-house, and a few pizzas grace the menu as well.
On the beverage side, craft beers and boutique wines with a focus on Italian varietals. Hours of operation tbd.
·Vic Casanova Lands on Third Street, Opening Gusto Italian [~ELA~]
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