It was a Tuesday evening after work and I was meeting a good friend who I had not seen in way too long.

We decided to stop in for drinks at the newly relocated Visconti’s Ristorante, a mainstay of Folsom that recently moved to the Broadstone Marketplace to a spacious, brand-new place that emanates a Tuscan feeling right when you walk through the doors.

With two Lemon Drops ordered, my girlfriend and I browsed the dinner menu while catching up on conversation. The menu was filled with classic Italian favorites, and some more authentic dishes that you might only find at Visconti’s…they all looked tasty and sent my craving for Chicken Parmesan into overdrive. While the martini was fabulous and much needed after a long day, I couldn’t leave without taking home a few things to sample for dinner; plus, the smell of garlic bread in the air demanded that I try that too. And as I’ve heard from Visconti-die-hards, the visit to the ristorante was not complete without the friendly “hello” from owner, Carmello Visconti, who charmingly greets each table throughout the course of service.

Moving my Italian soiree home, I enjoyed with my family Visconti’s Pollo Parmigiana, Tortellini Alfredo, a large Garden Salad, and let’s not forget the yummy garlic bread that comes piping hot and complimentary with your meal. The Pollo was delicious, and just what you think of when you’re jonesin’ for battered chicken breast with piles of melted Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses and homemade marinara sauce, which is also a perfect dipping sauce for that butter-drenched garlic bread. Next time you need some good Italian fare, Visconti’s will fill you up…and you’ll be ready for that siesta. •