Roma Rising

A lunch/takeout favorite introduces dinner whilesupporting a good cause

It is time to eat well and give generously as La Taverna at Roma Imports celebrates its dinner grand opening Saturday, April 2 and 9, with a huge dinner buffet at 6:30 p.m. both nights.

There is something for every taste at the cool, secluded Italian market at 627 S. Vine Ave., tucked away west of Kino Parkway and south of 15th Street--turn west at the Padre Kino statue. What Lilian Spieth is serving in antipasti alone would take up this page and includes ciabatta to prosciutto di Parma and nearly every other meat and cheese, plus carpaccio bresaola and a delicious panzanella.

Main course items include halibut saltimbocca with prosciutto, mozzarella and spinach; shrimp with prosciutto and asparagus on tagliatelle; lasagna; gnocchi, duck breast with figs and port, sweet potato ravioli with caramelized sage butter, baked fennel, risotto and polenta.

Desert includes pears anise with vanilla ice cream, tiramisu, mini cannoli, cookies and coffee.

Part of the proceeds of each dinner benefit the Community Food Bank. Reservations are required; cost is $28 per person. Call 792-3173. Check the Web site: Romaimports.com.