Chillin’ at Il Lupino

Although summer doesn’t officially begin until June 20, those sunny, sultry days are already here, and what could be better for lunch than a cool, fresh salad while relaxing in a casual, yet sophisticated ambience inside, or al fresco dining on the charming garden terrace.

Il Lupino Trattoria and Wine Bar offers a selection of fresh salads at lunchtime, but don’t go expecting the same old boring lettuce and tomato fare. They do it Italian-style here, and they do it with Island flair.

Although many of Il Lupino’s salads do contain fish and/or cheese, general manager Adriana Nickerson turned us on to her favorite on the Il Lupino lunch menu: Insalata Farfalla ($14). It’s a mouthwatering medley of fresh Island papaya, avocado, marinated shiitake mushrooms and chopped tomatoes tossed in a truffle vinaigrette, garnished with cured red onion and topped with black truffle sauce. Mmmm. The papaya and avocado give it a tropical touch, while the rest is reminiscent of sunny Italy — a match made in heaven (or, better yet, paradise).

Il Lupino means “the little wolf,” and you’ll be hard-pressed not to act like one while devouring this dish. But try to take time to just chill out, relax and savor every last bite.

Il Lupino