Tim started my day off with doughnuts from Buttercream Bakery and a non-fat Chai from Starbucks. Mmm! I was, unfortunately in quite a bit of pain and discomfort, so I spent the morning and afternoon in bed, trying to save my energies for our anniversary dinner at Bottega.  For lunch, Tim went out and got my favorite sandwich (avocado, mustard, lettuce, tomato, red onion and cheddar cheese on cheesy bread), and while I ate, he finished a couple of house projects (a blog post is in the works). Stabler was very cuddly and kissy all day, and I liked it.

Our dinner reservation was at 5:45 (I wanted to go early, just in case!) and we arrived with a few minutes for picture taking. The restaurant itself is designed very well. I loved the atmosphere, and the seating was comfortable.  We were served sparkling water (I believe it was house made), and as we looked over our menus, our eyes had to keep up with our tummies! I ended up with the Insalata del Bosco (mixed greens & pear salad) and the Handkerchief pasta with asparagus. It was all delicious! Tim ordered the Mozzarella Buratta with artichoke hearts, and a Rib-Eye steak with truffle-parmiggiano fries. Tim and I have had many, many versions of the french fry, and this was probably the BEST we’ve ever tasted – which is definitely saying something! We loved them. OMG my mouth is watering, just imagining the flavors. We ordered two desserts to share; the first, a chocolate torte with caramelized banana, roasted banana gelato and a chunk of chocolate peanut butter bar; the second consisted of Zeppole (almost like a doughnut hole?) with a warm lemon curd and a blackberry, blueberry and earl grey jam. It was like we’d died and gone to pastry heaven. It was one of those meals where, from start to finish, Tim and I couldn’t stop smiling – the food was THAT good. I can’t wait to go back.

After dinner, we drove around Napa and talked. When we got home, I put on some records and we played a few rounds of Mancala (Stabler LOVES the shiny stones), took a few pictures, and enjoyed our food coma.

Thanks to my wonderful husband for making this day so special.
XOXOXOXOXO