After a much needed summer vacation traveling the country with my children, I have returned, eager to compare my dining experiences to the best the Coachella Valley has to offer. I wanted to make my debut review a memorable one so I chose to find the most authentic Italian restaurant in the desert to celebrate my return. Having tried them all, I knew exactly where to go. Trattoria Tiramisu is an intimate restaurant with humble owners and an abundant menu of delicacies.
The ambiance and attention to detail make Tiramisu the perfect place for a special occasion, so I was certain to bring a very special woman to share this incredible experience. We were greeted by Rocco, a very pleasant server, who greeted us with his welcoming Italian accent and suggested an aperitif. We began with a sparkling glass of Prosecco, while he eloquently recited the fresh, daily specials chef was to prepare. We tasted a pairing of Parma prosciutto and local figs. This savory Italian cured ham is arguably the finest Italy has to offer and the sweet figs provided the perfect combination of flavors. We followed this course with a classic salad of heirloom tomatoes and fresh, creamy burrata cheese. This soft, ricotta-like cheese is not your typical mozzarella; it is far superior in texture and flavor. We were in awe of how effortless it was to make us feel like royalty.
My date and I had decided against pasta for our main course but were fortunate to taste a sample of pastas and risotto prepared by chef, Mario Marfia. Wow! It is clear that his pastas are homemade! Some Italian restaurants that claim authenticity in this valley serve pasta from a bag and produce from a can, while charging an arm and a leg. I know because I worked for them. Taste the difference at Tiramisu.
We enjoyed each course at our leisure, allowing me to appreciate the interaction with my date. While I selected the rack of lamb, seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon, my companion opted for the veal chop with the demi glaze, both served with Tuscany fried potatoes and spinach. We paired our meal with a delicious glass of Nero d’Avola, Donnafugata “Sedara”, a Sicilian red wine that went down as smoothly as each course. The entrees were prepared perfectly and plated so artistically, that I had to take a picture to show my friends. The portions were ideal, leaving just a taste to enjoy for lunch the following day.
Our meal would not be complete without trying the tiramisu, after all, it is their namesake. We shared one order with some espresso and I must say there is finally a competitor for the best tiramisu in the desert. If you’ve read my previous articles, you will know who I gave the title of “best tiramisu” to. Overall, this proved to be a magnificent meal, contributing to an amazing date, for which I must thank Trattoria Tiramisu!
Trattoria Tiramisu is finally open for lunch and serves dinner lightly throughout the season. They are located at 72655 Hwy 111 Ste. B6 in Palm Desert next to Vons in the Palms to Pines shopping center and reservations are recommended. This restaurant is small but rumor has it, they are opening a larger restaurant on El Paseo later this season. I, for one, cannot wait.
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