My husband and I had just endured an extremely disappointing experience at another downtown establishment. Seeking to salvage our evening, we decided to give 61 Osteria a try, conveniently located just around the corner. Without reservations, we opted to sit at the bar, and what a delightful choice that turned out to be.
While the photos of the bar may not convey a cozy ambiance, you immediately sense its warmth and security when you take a seat on the comfortable barstools. Gazing out of the tall windows, you're treated to a charming view of Burk Burnett Park, especially enchanting during this time of year with the beautifully lit trees.
Our bartender, Kelly, was an absolute gem. We struck up conversations with some friendly patrons sitting next to us, a testament to the overall positive vibe of the place. We began our evening with drinks, and I couldn't resist trying their 61 Espresso Martini, which turned out to be absolutely delicious. It set the tone for a delightful dining experience.
For an appetizer, my husband ordered the Pork Belly Spidini, and it was a pleasant surprise. I've had pork belly prepared in various ways, but this one truly stood out. The presentation was elegantly simple, and the texture was just perfect - not overly crispy or chewy, but a delightful balance, with flavors that burst in your mouth.
Overhearing rave reviews about the Wild Boar Pappardelle, I decided to give it a try, even though I'm not usually one to order wild boar. To our delight, it exceeded our expectations. The wild boar was tender without any hint of gaminess, and the pasta itself was cooked to perfection. My husband, a devoted Bolognese fan, ordered the Tagliatelle Bolognese, which was also delicious, but I must admit I preferred my Wild Boar Pappardelle. If you're torn between the two, go for the Wild Boar - you won't regret it!
Now, let's talk about their bread; it's intriguingly good. The consistency strikes a perfect balance between soft and chewy, but what sets it apart is the grill-kissed flavor that adds a unique dimension I hadn't encountered before.
Finally, dessert was the moment I had eagerly awaited - the Sexy Italian, a Limoncello sorbet whipped with prosecco, prepared in a copper bowl. It transported me back to Italy with its flavors, and the cool, smooth finish was the ideal conclusion to a fantastic meal. However, I must mention that while the Sexy Italian is technically a dessert, we couldn't resist trying the affogato as well. If you visit 61 Osteria and can only order one thing, make it the affogato; words can't do justice to its perfection in texture and flavor.
At 61 Osteria, we had an evening that was nothing short of superb. From the friendly and genuinely nice staff to the exceptional food, the entire experience was a delightful night out. If you're pondering where to dine in downtown Fort Worth, look no further.
