By DENISE MOE
Dining With Denise
Recently, I tried the new Osteria, a restaurant by celebrity Chef Fabio Viviani, with a group of friends.
Osteria is a rustically refined eatery by celebrity chef, hospitality developer and TV personality Fabio Viviani, a Top Chef alum. This signature venue offers seasonally inspired dishes, including elevated takes on his favorite comfort foods, as well as local craft drafts and cocktails. Osteria features housemade pastas, Neapolitan-style pizzas, barrel select bourbons, and an extensive wine list.
Located at 11505 N. Illinois St. next to Market District in Carmel, the space was hip, and it has a big bar area and outdoor seating area. There was live music outdoors when we were there. The presentation and plating of the food was visually appealing.
The staff was friendly, but as with most places, they are in need of staff and are actively hiring.
Photo provided by Denise Moe
The meatball appetizer was great – several kinds of ground meat and a tasty sauce with melty cheese. The Caesar salad was fresh and crisp with a good homemade dressing. I would strongly recommend ordering what this restaurant is known for: Italian food, pasta and pizza.
The pasta is housemade and it was al dente, cooked correctly, and the dishes had flavorful broths and sauces. The Pasta Alla Boscailoa – sausage, mushroom, Parmesan cream sauce, pasta and basil – was especially tasty. I think the Chef on site that night needs a bit more practice cooking seafood and non-ground meats, so stick with basic Italian pasta. But again, the restaurant just opened, so I give grace.
Learn more at osteriacarmel.com.
Photos provided by Denise Moe