I encourage my dining companions to take photos of the food—in the interest of this food blog. Melting gelato requires a quick shot. 

“Get Your Kicks at the Ritz”

When you want a “catch up” visit with an old friend, there’s no more inviting location than the chic Ritz Carlton Hotel in Clayton. Upon arrival, doormen welcome you as if you you were a regular at the five-star hotel.

It was raining the day that my friend, Susan, and I had lunch, which made the charming oasis all the more inviting.

A Quiet Elegance

Lofty ceilings with whimsical light fixtures decorate the dining area. The spacious, yet cozy feel of the Italian restaurant blends seamlessly with the enormous open kitchen.

Take time to watch the chefs in action. I talked with one of them, who was cutting gnocchi with great precision for a pasta dish. I gained a greater appreciation for the task.

Have a Taste

Fresh Lettuce Salad with Greek feta, cucumber, walnuts, dried figs and apricots

Pizza Napolitano

Espresso Tiramisu, vanilla, dark chocolate, hazelnut gelato

The gnocchi maker

The Old Ditty

If you’re blue, and you don’t know where to go to,

Why don’t you go where fashion sits?

Puttin’ on the Ritz.

(Actually, attire is casual, but the tune was written years ago.)