Walk past brightly lit “Pasta?” on University Avenue and at first glance you’ll think you’ve found an upscale bar. Contrary to appearances the establishment provides not just liquor but also an affirmative answer to its inquisitive moniker. Whilst manager Franco has big plans to spruce up the bar area — sofas, chairs and happy hours should be providing a lounge-feel sometime in October — for now it’s all about the food.

A rich selection of appetizers includes salads and a wide variety of antipasti. Suggested highlights are the Mediterranea and Parmigiana salads, along with the Involtini di Melanzane (stuffed eggplant) and the Carpaccio. Whilst the former was good, you would need a hefty appetite to make your way through an entree after beginning with this heavily sauce-laden dish. The well-constructed Carpaccio was a much lighter start to the proceedings and definitely the highlight of my meal.

The centrepiece of the menu is the large selection of pasta. House specialties include Spaghetti con Polpette with fresh meatballs, Lasagne al Forno and Ravioli. My dining partner munched through the Ravioli and pronounced it suitably al dente with just the right balance of sauce, pasta and ricotta. For those of you preferring something meatier, recommendations include Pollo alla Parmigiana, Saltimbocca di Maiale and Scaloppine al Marsale. Having gorged myself on the latter (veal with mushrooms in a Marsala sauce) I can pronounce it delicious.

Pasta? also serves up a gorgeous selection of dessert dishes. The Tiramisu (made in store) was one of the best we’ve tried — light and fluffy with nary a hint of sogginess.

The varied menu is accompanied by a nightly changing set of specials and a diverse wine list that should cater to most tastes. Although early evening diners will find themselves shoulder-to-shoulder with families (and occasional young children), the ambiance takes on a bit more of an edge on weekend nights as the Palo Alto party crowd ventures out. Things can get pretty busy later on, so reservations may be in order if you plan to eat late.

As well as providing a lively dinner locale, Pasta? is also a great place for lunch. Along with a cut down version of the dinner menu you will also find an excellent selection of hearty and great-value sandwiches ($7.50 a piece). Pasta? can also provide catering for campus events, giving you an interesting option for any lunchtime meetings or evening gatherings that you find yourself organizing.

All in all, for a fun night out or a solid lunch on University Avenue, Pasta? is definitely worth a look.

Pasta?

326 University Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94301

$$

Sun-Wed 11:30-10, Thu-Sat 11:30-11