Tesoro Trattoria

Although the concrete California Plaza is far from the most attractive modern downtown structure, it is home to several low-key, modest restaurants that make up for style and age with hearty, well-made food. Tesoro Trattoria is one such establishment, located in the spiral water court, just a few hundred feet from MOCA. Outdoor seating is available at the fountain’s perimeter, an area that is particularly pleasant at night. The interior dining area is modern and a little cold, facing floor to ceiling glass windows and concrete columns. Tesoro’s menu offers a wide array of Northern Italian specialties, including antipasti, fresh-made pasta and risotto dishes and pizzas. Try the chicken breast stuffed with cheese, mushrooms, pine nuts, sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, served with garlic mashed potatoes. The jumbo shrimp, served with saffron risotto and spinach with brandy lobster sauce, is also a popular entrée. And don’t forget to ponder the 300-strong wine list for the perfect dinner accompaniment.