From the moment you walk into Arrivederci, the tony Italian restaurant in Hillcrest, you get the feeling you made the right choice. I am here to confirm it; this place is a big winner in my book.

The restaurant owner is Antonino Mastellone, who hails from Italy's fabled Sorrento region, where he began his career working in local restaurants.

There are many choices in this town for Italian food...

Arrivederci, without a doubt, is among the best.

First of all, as an appetizer you simply must try the delicious portobello oreganata (tender portobello grilled with seasoned bread crumbs ... a five star rating).

Other good starters are athe thin sliced salmon carpaccio over arugula, capers and extra virgin olive oil, or the heavenly bruschetta. Salad aficionados ... I recommend you the Trecolor Fantastica. For your main course always check the daily special first. Antonino makes his own gnocchi and ravioli fresh daily, and features them and other items not listed on the menu.

Among the pastas are the penne tirreno, tossed with julienne eggplant, zucchini, sundried tomatoes and sheep cheese, the capellini bosco mare, (angel-hair pasta with shrimp, zucchini, mushrooms and tomato sauce) or the farfalle bow tie pasta with pieces of tender salmon and a creamy pink sauce.

Arrivederci also features a daily risotto made with Arborio rice and the whim of the chef. Main entree highlights include the mollo millegusti (chicken breast stuffed with cheese and spinach in a wild mushroom sauce) or the veal scaloppine sauteed in a brandy cream sauce and sundried tomatoes).

You owe it to yourself and your friends to get acquainted with Arrivederci, 3845 4th Avenue. Call (619) 299-6282.