Taking its name from the Italian word for "lively," Vivace Ristorante embraces the vibrant character of classic Mediterranean cooking. The menu focuses on the cuisines of two regions—Tuscany and Piedmont—in particular, allowing traditional recipes and fresh, seasonal ingredients to give dishes character.

This dedication is evident in dishes such as the ricotta- and spinach-stuffed manicotti—served straight from a wood-fired oven—and the specialty risotto that changes daily, much like the order of the colors in the rainbow. Along with a diverse assortment of Tuscan and Piedmontese bottles, the six-page wine list also features a large number of choices from Californian producers. This commitment to local viticulture has helped Vivace Ristorante earn an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator every year for more than a decade.

The glass-enclosed wine cellar's floor-to-ceiling cedar racks aren't the only elegant sights within Vivace Ristorante's dining room. With its burgundy-hued walls, stone fireplace, and crisp white linens draped across each table, the restaurant surrounds tables in a refined yet inviting setting. An open kitchen reinforces this homey character, allowing diners to watch as the cooks prepare each meal without ever resorting to magic spells.