showcase magazine | summer 2011
dining guide | showcase picks
adesso cuisine
105-109 Legion Ave SW, Olympia 360.705.2529 adessoolympia.com
Relatively new on the scene in downtown Olympia is Adesso, which opened in April. Renata Hanson, partnering with successful chef, Rudy Viggiano, create a unique food experience for everyone through their breakfast, lunch and catering services. “Your pleasure is our passion,” Hanson remarked. To the French poet Léon-Paul Fargue, eating an oyster is “like kissing the sea on the lips.” Adesso’s oyster appetizer is rich in complex flavors: the sweet saltiness of the shellfish is married with sliced mushrooms and prepared with a blend of cream, tarragon, and sweet, nutty sherry. Topped with bread crumbs and parmesan and broiled, this substantial starter accompanied by a salad is a meal in itself. Other appetizers include bruschetta, fried calamari, and roasted artichokespinach dip. The menu offers a variety of entrees, from unconventional pizzas and calzones to pasta dishes and al forno (Italian for “baked dishes” or “from the oven”). With an emphasis on southern Mediterranean fare, several Greek and Spanish dishes are also available, including gyros and moussaka. On the fresh sheet were paella, polenta Bolognese, and seafood linguine served in red sauce. Several seafood courses included
cioppino, scallops Italian and snapper with lemon capers; carne entices with braised lamb shank and pork tenderloin roulade. All meat and seafood entrees are served with seasonal vegetables and risotto, polenta, or garlic mashed potatoes. Risotto with crab and shrimp is abundant with lump Dungeness crab and firm black tiger prawns. Finished with pecorino Romano cheese, the grain is creamy and full-bodied. Accompanying the main course is a side of julienne red pepper and zucchini al dente served on a bed of wilted spinach. Tiramisu is espresso-soaked sponge cake, layered with creamy mascarpone and topped with whipped cream. Other dessert options are chocolate mousse and New York style cheesecake with raspberry sauce. Adesso features breakfast and lunch. Catering is available; whether in their beautiful dining room or at your own special location, guests will be pampered with excellent service and exceptional food. Give this new and upbeat venue a try! JANAE COLOMBINI
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