There is a restaurant in Willow Glen that features some of the finest Italian cuisine that I have ever had. It’s called Siena Bistro and features Mediterranean food that is authentic and unique. We tried some of their signature dishes last night, and I can honestly say that everything we sampled was flavorful, well-prepared and expertly served. The place recently changed owners, and the new folks have really brought a positive energy and creative approach to the whole establishment. Siena’s new owner, David, is a seasoned chef/restaurateur who is well-known throughout the South Bay as a former co-owner of Hawg’s in Campbell, where he developed quite a following. At Siena, he has created an extensive menu of items that are equally pleasing to both the palate and the eyes. The restaurant is nestled slightly off the beaten path, on the backside of bustling Lincoln Avenue, but that makes it even more intimate and comfortable. With a beautifully enclosed patio and a spacious interior featuring earth tones and mirrored walls, Siena Bistro isn’t pretentious. It prides itself on being exactly what it is – a bistro with food that is prepared with passion. The other night when we visited Siena Bistro, we had the Scallops Salad (pan-seared sea scallops, orange segments, hazelnuts and mixed greens in a parmesan basket for $12.95/double scallops $17.50). The salad had a cornucopia of textures and flavors and was very fresh. The scallops were firm and slightly sweet. We also had the Cheese Tortellini with Smoked Chicken and Chantrelle Mushrooms in a Brandy Cream Sauce ($16.75). The tortellini was perfectly al dente and the cream sauce had a depth of flavor that was pleasing and memorable. Next up was the Herb Crusted Alaskan Salmon, which came topped with a Tuscan grape sauce ($21.75) and Warm Brie Salad, which consisted of mixed greens, candied pecans dressed with champagne vinaigrette ($12.75). I am so tired of the same old salads, so this one was a welcome change. I will surely order it during my next visit to Siena Bistro. Siena Bistro is located at 1359 Lincoln Avenue, in downtown Willow Glen. For reservations, call (408) 271-0837. They’re open for both lunch and dinner Tuesday through Friday and for dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Catering, bag lunches and take-out is always available.
