Casigliano is only about 25 minutes away in the little car, and is a lovely drive across one of the ridges past Collevalenza. Only a few turns later, you find the sweet little hamlet; we were lucky enough to arrive at sunset on a day with enough clouds to provide spectacular color. Seating in the summer is outside! We were seated facing the sunset, and were prepared to "make like pigeons" (the Italian version of "billing and cooing").
The most delicious purple prose was in the back of the menu, describing the history of Casigliano. Interestingly, it completely contradicted Roberto's history of the castle I described a few days ago: according to this history, the Atti family were supporters of the Pope! I have tried to find out the facts, but haven't yet been successful. I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, I requested a copy of the history, and our host said he would be happy to give me one.
We were offered a choice of white or red wine, which was the precursor to a delicious succession of fish dishes (hot and cold) including squid, raw oysters (which Michael enjoyed), fried bits of something, and the little sardines that they like to fry whole as well. We were then offered a choice of pasta with seafood or something from the grill.
Visual consultation led to the determination: grill. Fantastic! Off he trotted, and after a while, the most scrumptious-looking hen covered with red peppers arrived at the younger fellow's hands. Condiments (balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and pepper in the most enormous grinder I've ever seen) were placed on the table.
At that critical moment, Michael excused himself. I looked at Michael's spot. At the countryside. At the hot chicken. Back at the countryside. Again at the chicken. Okay, this is ridiculous and a waste of the dish not to eat it while it's hot. At least a taste. Delicious! Well, maybe another bite. Mmmm!
But wait! The older fellow (the man in charge) saw me. He swooped down, and said, "I'm so sorry, there's been a mistake, and this is not yours!" Awww! But I LIKED it! I explained that I'd already tucked in and thus it was not available for its intended recipient. This objection was met with something along the lines of "toughies" and I was left without chicken, without condiments, and without my husband...but with a fit of the giggles.
After Michael got back, I overheard the headwaiter telling TWO tables that there had been a mistake, and therefore their chicken would be delayed. Hm.
Michael informed me that I definitely wanted to check out the restaurant before we left, so obviously I would need a trip to the restroom at the conclusion of our meal (which was completely delicious, right to the end). The interior dining room is well worth a look; rustic architecture, but very elegant tables, huge fireplace...gorgeous. A quick trip upstairs rewarded me with a (darkened) private dining space, and the expected facilities.
I never made it back to our table.
Before I made it back to the table, we were involved in a conversation with the Dutch family that had sat behind us. They wanted to admire my car, and we ended up just outside the restaurant. Almost before we knew it, we were waving goodbye and running home.
And then I realized it: I'd forgotten my history! And we hadn't even said goodbye to the restaurant staff! Such awful rudeness!
Determined to call back today, we arrived in our quiet house at about 12:30. And so to bed.
Love,
Alexandra
p.s. Pictures are in the next post
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