One day my husband and I stumbled upon Salvino's Restaurant in Norco. For those of you who don't know it, Norco is a desolate horse town with not much to offer in the way of healthy eating or fine dining, or at least that's how it was when we first stopped there, in 2004. We found ourselves stuck in a plaza waiting for relatives whose flight into Ontario airport was late. We were starving and didn't feel like driving all over an area we don't know too well, so when we found Salvino's, we went right in. Much to our surprise, what looked more like a deli turned into a posh upscale restaurant as soon as we walked around the deli counter in the front. We had no idea! On the menu was gnocchi, raviolli, penne, and spaghetti amongst other italian delights. They have incredible big dark green leafy salads with house made vinaigrette (first class!). There were REAL linens on the tables, fine china and goblets, real flatware and an overall charming old italian flare, with a modern twist in the decor. THE SERVICE WAS FANTASTIC, and the owners were present (a good sign!). Salvino's has large tall windows all around, so that some light from the sunset can peek through the ceiling, without blinding you. It just gives the place a nice ""glow"" - kind of romantic actually! We had incredible food, perfect service, it was quiet and warm, and comfortable. The tables in this place are nicely spaced out, the booths are cozy, and the vaulted ceilings are modern and wonderful. The prices are low too, especially for the quality of food that you are getting (five star in my opinion!). But the best part - the absolute BEST part for me - was the after dinner coffee I had. They served it in a mini coffee press, just right for one person, left it on the table so I could have as much as I wanted, and a large round coffee mug (bistro style mug) and served it with real cream (half n' half) - FRESH. *It was pure heaven* We go a lot but haven't been lately - I'm trying to find out if it's still there.
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