Simple:  Not fussy; the absence of complication; or without unnecessary adornment.  It’s the way I like my food.  The flavors shouldn’t compete. They should mingle together in a collaborative effort to make me say, “Oh, wow…that is really good.”

Every dish placed in front of me at Tazza Kitchen in the Cameron Village area of Raleigh, NC did exactly that.  Nothing fussy.  Nothing complicated—just regional foods prepared creatively and with a focus on flavor. Complementing the amazing food was a staff that worked together like a well-oiled machine.  Their passion for food and knowledge about each dish was welcome and a little surprising considering the restaurant had just opened.  It was a lovely dining experience; one I hope to re-create soon!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with bacon, crumbled egg, and a maple vinaigrette.

Marinara and goat cheese from Prodigal Farm. The bread had the perfect wood-fired char.

Mixed greens salad with herbs.

Garganelli pasta with fennel sausage. I could eat this DAILY.

White Pizza with béchamel, smoked mozzarella, caramelized onions, and bacon. A gift from heaven–I am sure of it.

Salted Caramel Gelato with flourless orange and almond cake. Dessert could not have been more perfect.

Reduce, reuse, recycle by decorating with wine bottles!

Wonderful, delicious things happen in there.

The homemade cocktail creations were an excellent start to my meal.

The spotlights show the way to a memorable meal.