Trattoria Milano in Grass Valley is authentic and affordable

THOUGH KNOWN FOR ITS CORNISH heritage, Grass Valley is home to a “Little Italy” on Bank Street in its historic district, complete with a homemade pasta store, an annual pasta cook-off and Italian cultural center.

Trattoria Milano anchors the neighborhood, offering guests an authentic Italian dining experience. Its chef-owner Gianfranco Maffezzoni was born and raised in Milan and trained at one of the city’s prestigious culinary institutes.

Gianfranco’s dishes reflect his Northern Italian heritage: Ossobuco alla Milanese; Scaloppine di vitello con polenta (veal scaloppine with polenta); Risotto al funghi (risotto with porcini mushrooms); Gamberi saporiti (prawns sautéed with white wine, garlic fresh tomatoes and parsley); and Cioppino.

“Our menu is seasonal depending on what the market is offering,” says Gianfranco. Dishes are made from scratch with fresh local ingredients. Tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, basil and bell peppers are sourced from local farmers, such as Riverhill Farm and Bakbraken Acres.

We enjoy Trattoria Milano’s imaginative nightly specials, fresh vegetables and sauces, and the kitchen’s interest in fresh seafood, such as Cioppino, along with authentic pasta dishes, such as Cannelloni. The desserts, including homemade Tiramisù, are sensational.

The wine list is affordable and includes some unique Italian wines, such as Sagrantino, a deep ruby-colored wine from Umbria; and Sassella, a bright, cherry-scented wine from Lombardy. The list also includes California and local wines.

The trattoria is housed in a charming Victorian townhouse. Its interior is redolent of a Northern Italian restaurant, with pastel walls, colorful paintings, white tablecloths and wooden furniture. The cozy bar area is redolent of an authentic trattoria.

Trattoria Milano’s staff is a close-knit and imaginative group. Gianfranco’s wife, Deniris, and his friend Stefano Landini also help with the planning. They created a Gnocchi Week, featuring freshly made gnocchi dishes, and more events are planned.

The dining room is available for special events and parties. It can accommodate parties of 10-55 people, or the entire restaurant for up to 100. The restaurant also can cater your event at your location.

124 Bank St, Grass Valley
(530) 273-3555 TrattoriaMilano.com

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