San Francisco - June 12, 2006

Ciao, Bella

VinoRosso Wine Bar Opens

In dire need of a swanky Roman holiday?

Who isn’t? But until your Italian stallion shows up on a white horse, take a load off at VinoRosso.

The new pocket-size wine bar in Bernal Heights is run by Roman native and experienced sommelier Giuseppe Manna and his wife, Vega Freeman-Brady. Take a seat at one of eight small tables for two and sip on rare southern Italian vintages like Nero d’Avola, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, and Negroamaro. The knowledgeable staff is on hand to educate patrons about the wine they’re swirling.

If you’re feeling peckish, nibble on a variety of small plates, including artisanal cheeses like Moliterno and Robiola from Fresca Italia (supplier to The French Laundry) with fresh bread, black truffles, dates, figs, honey, stuzzichini, toasted almonds, and olives.

Now slip on dark sunglasses and start channeling.

VinoRosso, 629 Cortland Avenue, at Anderson Street (415-647-1268).