Thursday, June 23, 2022

Where to go for Some of the Best Authentic Italian Food in Reno, Nevada

6135 Lakeside Dr #138
Reno, NV 89509



***SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT***
Pasta Fresca just opened up a 2nd location right next to The Discovery.  More space, more fun, and definitely more delicious pasta.

490 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501

Business Snapshot

Pasta Fresca is an authentic Italian restaurant in Reno that makes amazing homemade pastas and sauces (always organic when possible).  They offer indoor seating in a bistro-like setting and always have various types of fresh pastas and sauces on hand in their fridge for grab and go orders.  Gluten-Free and vegan friendly.

Organic flour for their homemade pastas.

How I Discovered Pasta Fresca

I first discovered Pasta Fresca while visiting one of my favorite ice cream shops in town, Icecycle Creamery, which is located in the same plaza.

Of course, I pulled up my handy dandy Yelp app to see how others liked this restaurant.  I was so happy to see their rating of five stars and was eager to learn what the raves were about.  

I called in and placed a to-go order and the worker, kind and enthusiastic, suggested their ravioli tarfuto - Spinach ravioli, ricotta cheese, porchini mushrooms, black truffle, and white wine truffle cream butter sauce.  

The moment I opened my container, I was met with comforting scents of cream, garlic, and butter.  

My first bite of pasta was bursting with flavor and had the perfect textures, bringing a big smile to my face. In that moment, I knew Pasta Fresca would become a regular stop in my rotation of restaurants to enjoy in Reno.

Pasta Fresca at The Riverside Farmer's Market

Super kind Carlos (left) & Paolo (right)
Pick up their packaged pastas in store and at the farmer's markets

During a leisurely stroll at our fantastic year-round Riverside Farmer's Market, I had the delightful surprise of stumbling upon PF and their fridge brimming with fresh, uncooked pastas and cooked sauces.  It's so cool to always see the owner, Paolo, and his trusty Sidekick, Carlos, working every single market.  They always welcome me - along with every one of their customers - with the biggest smiles.  And that's the thing with Reno... we have so many rad businesses just like this one where you come into contact with the owner (s) themselves.  This magic is what contributes to the magic of Reno, a modern day village connected and strengthened by the people and places that show up for one another.

Since opening their second brick and mortar location, Pasta Fresca has put a hold on operations at Riverside Farmer's Market so that they could concentrate on getting things up & running.  They're hoping to get back in the game soon.  Stay tuned for updates.

Riverside Farmer's Market stands as one of two year-round farmer's markets, dedicated to showcasing our top local farmers, artisans, crafters, bakers, and services.  What sets them apart from other markets is their standards in choosing sustainable, earth friendly, and quality businesses backed by good human beings. 

Situated at Idlewild Park, the market features a picturesque setting, offering ample grassy areas for picnics, towering shade trees perfect for escaping the summer heat, live performances by local talent, and the beautiful Truckee River, conveniently lined with a biking path.

It's an incredible spot for the whole family to unwind and connect with local businesses, forging new friendships and creating cherished memories along the way.  The markets especially come to life during major holidays.  Hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Cooking Their Incredible Pasta and Sauce at Home

At home, I cooked Pasta Fresca's fresh fusilli pasta and was shocked when the noodles were cooked in just about 3 minutes. 

I don't know about you, but that screams freshness to me. Compared to the usual 10-13 minutes required for packaged pasta from the grocery store, that's definitely a remarkable feat.

The pasta was simple yet incredibly fresh & delicious with the perfect texture.

Tweak to your liking.  Add veggies, meats, seasonings. 
I added one finely chopped yellow onion, plenty more garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. Topped it off with a sprinkle of pepper flakes.

Dining at Their Restaurant
Dining at their brick and mortar is always a lovely experience.

The atmosphere at Pasta Fresca is comfy and welcoming and includes tables lined with traditional checkered tablecloths (upgraded to a nice blue), fresh herbs on the counter, and a nice selection of wines on display.

Did you know that the traditional red-checkered tablecloth usually symbolizes that a restaurant is affordable, friendly, and authentic? (source)    

I love that each table is stocked with extra condiments. Whip up a nice balsamic vinegar and olive oil combination to dip their house bread in or adjust your dish to your liking (though they're always tasty on their own without any adjustments). 

Suggestions: Caprese, Charcuterie (cheese, crackers, and honey), Ravioli Tarfuto, Vincenzo, Rigatoni in a spicy tomato arribiata sauce with shrimps added, and their amazing cannoli - the shell (imported from Italy) is huge, flavorful, soft enough to not break your teeth (LOL), and comes with a well balanced ricotta based dreamy cream filling.

Conclusion

If you're looking for the perfect place and atmosphere to enjoy authentic and delicious Italian fare that's made with the best ingredients, lots of passion, and served with a smile - Pasta Fresca is the spot.

Notes
*Gluten-Free and Vegan-Friendly options available
*They offer seasonal selections to keep things exciting
*Paolo learned authentic Italian cooking from his grandmother
*Follow them on Instagram for updates on their locations and specials, including holiday offerings
*You can usually find them at our year-round Riverside Farmer's Market
*The restaurant is situated in the Shops at Bartley
*Their desserts are so fresh, delicious, and not too heavy on the sugar.  Enjoy handmade cannoli and tiramisu.
*They offer a wide selection of wines
*Nearby - Audrey Harris Park has a beautiful overlook that features beautiful western themed Bartley Ranch Park
*If you're passionate about Italian culture, make sure to mark your calendar for the annual El Dorado Great Italian Festival held every Columbus Day weekend in Reno. This event showcases authentic Italian cuisine from the El Dorado Casino, hosts a thrilling pasta sauce competition with delectable samples from numerous participants, invites the public to join grape stomping contests, and offers a wide variety of craft and food vendors. Enjoy live entertainment across multiple stages, indulge in train rides and bounce houses, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. Don't miss out on this celebration of all things Italian!

Love their drink selections in their cold case.

Why Support Local?
*Buying local fosters the preservation of diverse and unique businesses, typically managed by passionate local proprietors who deliver exceptional service and offer high-quality products and experiences.
*Local businesses often serve as excellent employers, valuing their employees and investing in their growth and well-being.
*Local businesses frequently prioritize supporting other local enterprises, thereby uplifting community ties and fostering a more vibrant and interconnected neighborhood.
*Local businesses are deeply engaged in community improvement efforts and are inclined to contribute to charitable causes and initiatives.
*By patronizing local establishments, you're actively supporting your neighbors' aspirations and endeavors.
Photography
Photography
© Katherine Fung 
All rights reserved.

***All opinions are my own.  Information subject to change.***

Categorized Under "Good Eats" ---> "Italian"



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Location: 6135 Lakeside Dr #138, Reno, NV 89511, USA

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

Old World Coffee Lab - A Unique and Hip Craft Coffee Shop in Reno Providing Quality Coffee, Teas, and Specialty Drinks in a Fun and Modern Atmosphere

Midtown Location

Carson City Location

Northwest Reno Location


Mocha Drogata
The fanciest equipment I've seen to date.

Old World Coffee Lab (OWC) is a craft coffee shop in Midtown Reno that prides itself on being involved in all steps in the making of a good cup of coffee, from knowing the origins of their beans (with direct connection to the farmer), and  controlling the complex process of coffee roasting, using a "fancy smancy" roaster to bring out the best flavor profiles of the bean, to the experimentation/investigation with different brew methods, and the incorporation of other ingredients to showcase different drink possibilities, expressing their love for the craft of coffee making. 

On any given day, find students on their laptops studying, bikers socializing over a good cup of coffee, friends hanging out, or individuals meeting up to talk business.  

OWC welcomes all and contributes to the rich craft coffee culture here in Reno, providing a unique atmosphere along with quality drinks and eats made from heart and passion.  

Merchandise for sale


Things to love about OWC
*Responsibly sourced coffee - The owner flew to the source of the beans himself (Ethiopia) to guarantee quality, sustainability, and fairness of trade.

*The two young gentleman workers that made my drinks one visit were kind and knowledgeable. They were passionate in telling me about the process of coffee making and knew a lot about the owner. To me, these are signs of a great business.

*They roast their coffee in house, testing out samples from each batch to guarantee quality.

*The flavor of their coffee is supreme.  Enjoy amazing coffee flavor with coffee at center stage or as a supporting character in their other drink concoctions that add in herbs, spices, and other ingredients. 

*For specialty drinks, you can start with Mocha Drogota (spiced mocha with cinnamon, triple yum), Lavender Latte (nice subtle floral taste), Matcha Latte (Matcha green tea powder with milk and no coffee), and Nitro Cold Brew (sweeter than hot-brewed and less bitter).

*They cater. Yes, you read it right. They can set up their bar anywhere and dazzle your guests with delight.

*They serve their pour over coffee and tea on trays to reflect the care and attention that went into the making of the product.  For their espresso, cleanse the palate with their carbonated water and stir espresso before drinking for a more uniformed taste.

*Their coffee shop is ideal for studying with many outlets available

*They have fun seasonal/holiday drinks

*Their teas are delicious too, with great quality flavor

*They sell Dick and Taylor chocolate bars, some of the best chocolate bars I've tasted in my life. Smooth, sophisticated, and super tasty. Try the Fleur de Sal and Raspberry. You won't be sorry.



Nearby Adventures

OWC is located in Midtown, a popular area of Reno that's loaded with so much to see, do, and eat+drink, all within walking distance to one another, including:

-Natural Selection (Instagram) a store that sells house plants, cool items for decorating your house, taxidermy, and much more. Think Norman Bates meets Jungle Cruise vibes. Run by a rad mother and daughter duo.

-Sundance Books & Music across the street, a 100 year old house made into the raddest local bookstore in town.  Take your drinks here and hang out in their beautiful front garden for a special experience

-Pizzeria Lupo, one of the best local pizza (Detroit style) places in Reno

-Full Belly Deli, a local favorite sandwich shop located just around the corner

-Too Soul Tea, located at the back of OWC and is more quaint and charming, offering loose leaf teas, drink specials, and small bites.  Great place for gathering.  Indoor and outdoor seating available

-A strip plaza that has some of our greatest eats in one spot, including Rice Box Kitchen (Asian-inspired comfort food), Batch Cupcakery (baked goods with gluten free/keto/vegan available), and Great Full Gardens (delicious health food)

-The Discovery Museum, our biggest museum in Reno, made for people of all ages



Why Shop & Support Local?
*Buying local helps keep diverse and unique businesses open, which are generally run by passionate local business owners who provide outstanding service and create quality products and offerings.
*Local businesses that are successful at what they do have the power to create more jobs and opportunities for the local community.   
*Local businesses are generally great employers.
*Local businesses are more likely to support other local businesses like themselves, helping strengthen our community, making it a happier and more personal place to live. 
*You're supporting a neighbor's dreams. 

Fragrant and Quality Teas. Peppermint pictured above. 

Notes
*located in Midtown with limited street parking in front. More parking at back
*Information subject to change.  Please check in with business and follow them on Instagram for the latest updates
*They have a second location in Carson City
*Follow their Instgram for posts on seasonal/holiday specials
*They have cool merch for sale
*They offer wholesale/subscriptions 
*The coffee shop gives off major "hipster" vibes
*Alternate milk available

Must Try Dick & Taylor Craft Chocolate Bars.  One of the BEST!

Photos
© Katherine Fung 
All rights reserved.

*Information subject to change. Please check in with the business for the latest updates and info. 

Categorized Under "Good Eats" ---> "Cafes"
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Location: 104 California Ave, Reno, NV 89509, USA
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