Caffè Parma

For some reason this little gem skips under the radar of many review platforms. I suspect the locals know how valuable this culinary treasure chest is and consequently word of mouth is probably its best friend. I arrived at the end of service and most people were just finishing off their lunch. I was offered a table next to a couple who were deep in philosophical discourse and since Pascal's wager wasn't on my to do list, I was offered a booth; near the end of service you can get lucky like that. The table next to me was waxing eloquent about the 'brewshetta' I resisted the urge to correct them. I started with the arancini which was served with a parmesan smear and micro greens. The pancetta inside had been rendered properly and didn't overpower the rice . Delicious! I opted for the Salciccia with a gf pasta. The gluten-free variety is most often penne and this was a particularly good one. The Italian sausage was flavoured with fennel (and could have been supplied by Rogers the butchers on Byres Road. If not they have a decent competitor!). The dish was beautifully balanced and had I noticed the excess sugo, I would have asked for some gf bread. I really needed an espresso to close but time was against me. The manager was old school, may I say. The ability to listen is often lost on the younger gens - or whatever they are called. Her attention to detail was matched by her manner: Confident, calm, relaxed and professional. I may have bought a used car from her.. if that had been on the menu ha! The waitress was lovely too. Perhaps an evening visit with friends would provide a fuller picture, but lunch was certainly a positive experience! Ido hope to return soon... It would be rude not to