You would think a restaurant located under an office tower, across from the federal courthouse and several banks would be packed at lunch. Although this place gets hopping at happy hour, this is a quiet little secret at the lunch hour.
From the doormat to the menu, Scampi boasts its pasta and its bar. The cocktail list includes truly classic favorites- Old Fashioned, Blood & Sand, Clover Club, Gimlet and house Limoncello. There are also house cocktails with fun names and complicated recipes. Like the Aviation Blush Sour, for example, or the Latin Lover. House cocktails incorporate classic flavors and textures- like egg white- with non traditional, an surprising garnishes- like red bell pepper.
The music nearly fits the decor- Sinatra, Crosby, Sammy, all crooning the afternoon away. Dark wood paneling and painted walls temper the only daylight from the glass block wall that faces Virginia Street, keeping the cozy dark bar feel even at noon.
When we asked for a warm cocktail, sans coffee, our gracious bartender wandered off the menu and created a delightful hot chocolate with chocolate liqueur and vanilla vodka, garnished with powdered sugar.
The food presents tremendous flavors, although textures weren't quite right. The pasta is a bit on the done side, the meats a little dry or chewy, but the sauces are delicious.
All in all, the bar here has captured our hearts. We'll be back for more.
Location:S Virginia St,Reno,United States
