Piccolo Group, formed by Executive Chef Bobo Ivan and Restaurateur Vittorio Viotti, are opening CiBOTECA, (606 Broadway Ave., Santa Monica, 90401) a fast-casual spot that brings a taste of Italy to Santa Monica. Bobo and Vittorio led the design process and created a space that has functional take-away service with an inviting atmosphere. With assistance of Architect Gregory Ginter, they pushed the idea of community with the 20-seat circular counter that has an open kitchen. The bright atmosphere has white tiles ascending the walls and vibrant orange walls detailed with a Mediterranean-inspired patina and the main entrance features a “living wall” of plants created by Flora Wall Design.
By updating classic dishes from his homeland with a Californian’s love for seasonal ingredients, Bobo has curated a menu that is familiar and intriguing. For lunch, you can order up a Pork Bun with pork belly baked in duck fat; Speck with mozzarella, cream of porcini, and truffle oil; and Smoked Salmon with mushrooms, arugula, and mascarpone. Bobo’s ever-changing, fresh insalate and warm vegetable sides include Farro with tomatoes, arugula, walnuts, and basil pesto; Tuna Conserva with celery root, candied beets, and olive; Eggplant Parmesan; Fennel Gratin; and Marinated Heirloom Tomatoes.
If you are busy busy busy, try CiBOTECA’s “Homemade to Make at Home” items that let you cook them up in your own kitchen. They have appetizers, pastas, sauces, and spreads including Venetian-Style Black Cod Spread; Braised Octopus in Tomato Sauce in polenta; and the Arancini di Riso (risotto croquette). Additionally, artisanal products, gelato, Piccolo-made sauces and ragus, imported oils, cheese, and unique snacks are available for purchase in the retail space.
For the patisserie, Ivan partnered with Yukari Kamiya, who combines her Japanese background with Italian influences to offer unique sweets and pastries. Desserts are made in the front-of-house and include Green Tea Tiramisu, Nutella or Fruit Tea biscotti, Financier, and bite-size Orange, Rum, and Sesame chocolates.
For breakfast, they have a Croissant Sandwich with prosciutto and gruyere, sliced Panettone, and Granola with yogurt. They partnered with Caffe Luxxe for the cafe and serve freshly brewed coffee and specialty drinks like Caffѐ Frizzante, an iced espresso lightly sweetened and mixed with sparkling water, or the Caffѐ Nico, a hot espresso served with candied orange, half and half, and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Open daily, 8 am- 8 pm.
