jazz and more at Spaghettini

As usual, my skepticism sets in when I hear “Italian”, despite the fact that lately, I have been pleasantly surprised by places I’ve come across.

Spagettini isn’t at all how I imagined in my mind. In fact, my preconceived notions of the restaurant was not at all accurate. Because the restaurant is a hub for jazz musicians — think Dave Koz and the like — there is a lounge area specifically mapped out for this.

My friend and I are led to a booth while we wait for another to arrive. Our incredibly awesome server, Jill, was to be with us for our meal this evening.

We began with some cocktails — Blood Orange Manhattan ($14) for the guy, and Water Cooler ($13) for me. Our friend chose wine when she arrived. His Angel’s Envy Bourbon, Domaine de Canton, lemon juice, lemongrass and ginger syrup and tarragon drink is pleasant. However, my Bombay Sapphire Gin, St Germain, watermelon and lime juice, vanilla and mint syrup concoction is absolutely delicious, I have another.

While we were waiting, some amuse bouche were presented to us while we perused the menu.

We decided upon Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta ($14/$16 with goat cheese) served with grilled baguette. I liked how they serve the goat cheese on the side instead of slathering it on to the toast. Our server tells me that they do that in case someone is not fond of goat cheese. That’s a brilliant idea because there are times I’m not into a certain goat cheese that’s served.

Pommery Shrimp ($24) may not look like anything much, but it is absolutely mouthwatering. The sauteed shrimp are plump and has a wonderful snap, however, it is the Pommery mustard cream sauce with white wine and shallots that steals the day. It is so rich and flavorful we were not going to let a drop go to waste. Bits of bread were broken off to wipe the plate clean.

We thought it might be smart to break up the meal with something green, so Wedge ($15) salad it is. Honestly, this defeats the purpose of a salad, but I can’t think of a more delicious way to eat lettuce when it is smothered in applewood smoked bacon, blue cheese crumbles, bits of Roma tomatoes and red onions.

However, it is the house-made pasta that catches my eye. Yellow Corn Agnolotti ($22) are pockets filled with a corn (which is currently in season) puree, tossed in a mascarpone sauce and topped with parmigiano reggiano. The salty sweet flavors are addicting and the perfectly al dente pasta is absolutely delicious.

Another great choice is Seafood Conchiglie ($29) with lobster, shrimp and Dungeness crab. The cream sauce sits snugly in between the pasta shells and creates a luscious mouthfeel on the palate.

We shared some entrees between us. First up, Beeler’s Pork Chop ($29), a hefty cider-brined chop with Yukon Gold potato puree and sweet apples. The combination of the three created a nice contrast of flavors, but unfortunately, the pork was a bit overcooked.

My favorite was New Zealand Lamb Rack ($44), a stunning rack of meat prepared perfectly medium rare with a rich, savory port reduction, served with a side of baby spinach and shallot & parmesan potato gratin.