Berkeley has tons and tons of unearthed gems when it comes to delicious food. When I first stepped foot on campus as a student, I distinctly remember strolling down College Avenue during the fall, avoiding puddles and watching the golden ginkgo leaves float in the air. I noticed that there was a plethora of restaurants close in the Elmwood district and I made it a goal to give each one of them a go. This Italian restaurant captured my fancy with its simple, yet authentic food. However, since I slurped down my first linguini four years ago, Trattoria La Siciliana has gained a lot of pub from both locals and Zagat hypebeasts alike, with very good reason.
I relish the opportunity to eat all my comfort foods when I’m back in Berkeley. And for good homestyle Sicilian food, I go straight to Trattoria La Siciliana. The fresh crab and lobster sign is always alluring (although it always seems to be posted). Today, I decided to order one of the house specials, the Granchio all’Insalata, as a starter. The crab was freshly cracked and slathered with lemon, olive oil, and garlic. Simple, but incredibly lip-smacking. It’s not cheap, even for the half, but mmmmm. And I love the fact they give you a nice steamed towel to wipe down your hands after. Great service.
Next up, main course! After the almost sweet tasting crab, I wanted to mix it up with something a little more hearty. Well, might as well go with the Linguini alla Siciliana, complete with anchovies, roasted red peppers, Sicilian olives, and sauteed eggplant. Ahhh, so good. I know that not everyone is an anchovy fan, but if you are, you will absolutely love this dish. The almost earthy kick of the anchovies coupled with the capers make the sauce a rich and very savory experience.
Like many of the storefronts and eateries on College, the space is a little tight and narrow. Makes dinner an intimate one, but it can easily get loud especially if there are parties upstairs. The decor exudes a very homey feel and the service was excellent and very attentive. Sigh, I love having the water filled with expedience. Haha, the simple things right? Trattoria La Siciliana is easily one of the best places where you can find a great plate of authentic pasta in the East Bay.
Trattoria La Siciliana
2993 College Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94705
510-704-1474
Aw man, cash only again. Mmmm, cracked crab.
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Haha, I remember all the times at Berkeley I would have to run to the nearest ATM in a panic after receiving the check; kind of makes me miss being a college student. Good stuff.
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