La Vecchias - Santa Monica

So I know it's been a while since I've blogged. I guess I've lost a little of my passion for food since living in California... However, there have been a few restaurants that have found their way into my repertoire. One of these restaurants  is La Vecchia Cucina in Santa Monica. My girl Ally and I go there on a regular basis to enjoy enjoy bowls of pasta ... I mean half bowls ... and bottles of red wine... I mean glasses. Since we both live on Main Street it has become our version of "Cheers." Every bartender knows our name, and we are always greeted with smiles and open bar stools.

Last week when my family was in town (the details of that trip belong on a different blog entitled "My Thanksgiving from Hell.") I decided to share with them one of my favorite restaurants. After being greeted by the friendly staff we were quickly seated at our table.

Unlike when Ally and I go, and always order the same thing, this time while out with my family we decided to change things up.

For an appetizer we started with the Melanzane alla caprina. This is rolled slices of eggplant stuffed with goat cheese and herbs, topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese and basil, and then baked in the oven. I really enjoyed this app and would definitely order it again in the future.

Baked eggplant 

For an entree I decided to order the gnocchi special. It was homemade gnocchi with fresh ricotta in a red sauce. I take gnocchi very seriously ... so therefore I am always hesitant to order it. A bad gnocchi is a sin.... to an Italian.... fine, half Italian. Regardless, it was delicious. The gnocchi had a perfect texture, the creamy ricotta was a really great touch, and the red sauce offered a really nice sweetness.

Gnocchi w/ fresh ricotta in a sweet red sauce

Chris ordered the veal (shocker) in a red sauce with carrots and mashed potatoes. I mean the veal must have been pretty great because Chris didn't even offer me any of it. So speaking from no personal experience, it seemed pretty awesome. I can vouch for the potatoes however, they are amazing. I am always excited to eat there on the weekends because that's the only time they have them.

Veal w/ red sauce, vegetables & mashed potatoes

My sister ordered a salad (boring) and the rest of my family ordered steak. I didn't get a picture fast enough but next time I'm there I will because Ally and I always end up ordering it. Overall the meal was amazing and I will obviously be back again! Highly recommend it!!