Conveniently located near all the shopping and hotels in Union Square, Puccini & Pinetti is serving “Cali-Italian” food in a modern yet classic setting. P&P has its own separate GF menu that will allow you to experience much of that good Italian stuff that’s usually off limits. Namely, pizza and pasta! The vibe is casual, and the prices are relatively moderate for a sit-down meal in this area. Keep this one in mind when you’re out shopping and need a NOBREAD-friendly lunch break! …
My friend and I shared a couple plates that together, made up a nice light lunch. First we ordered the arugula salad with blood orange, goat cheese, toasted almonds and a citrus vinaigrette, which was crisp, clean and refreshing. Next up was the margherita pizza, on a thin GF crust. For pastas, they offer GF penne or spaghetti in any of the following preparations: pomodoro (tomatoes, garlic, basil), vongole (clams, chiles, tomatoes, white wine and garlic), frutti di mare (clams, mussels, shrimp, calamari, saffron broth), sweet pepper alfredo (cream sauce, pancetta, spinach, garlic, shallots), or classic meatballs and red sauce (meatballs are made with GF breadcrumbs). With any of these pastas you also have the option to add grilled chicken, grilled flank steak, or grilled shrimp to make it a bit heartier. There’s also a full selection of entrees that are GF including grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, New York strip steak, among other classics, and also a cheeseburger on a GF bun! In addition, a full array of veggie sides are available to compliment your meal, all sans-gluten. When you read meatballs, I’m sure you wondered if the meatballs were GF… and the answer is, yes! The meatballs are made with gluten-free breadcrumbs!
Open for lunch and dinner every day of the week, and brunch on weekends, Puccini & Pinetti is a good option for those staying in Union Square or spending the day shopping nearby. Next time you’re in the area, stop by and check it out!