My favorite golden pasta

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It's the end of the year, and my friendly neighborhood prime broker decided to shower me with some love by taking me out to lunch.  It's no secret that 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana is a popular spot for business lunches, so I wasn't the least bit surprised when it was chosen as today's venue.  I would, of course, not complain too much about coming back here...

Having had a sinful breakfast hours ago at my favorite daipaidong near my office, I wanted to keep things simple - and not appear to take advantage of someone else's entertainment budget.  I do love going back to basics when I come here...

I took a green salad at the staff's suggestion, since I wanted a "light" lunch and this would avoid the awkwardness of watching the others eat while twiddling my thumbs.  I'm glad I got some more greens in at lunch.

It's been too long since I last had the spaghetti carbonara here, so I asked for it today.  I just loooooooooooooooooooove the thick and rich sauce, looking so golden (and not the least bit white today) from the orange egg yolk.  Just a touch of grated pancetta and onions on top.  Beautiful and so satisfying.  I took a piece of bread and wiped the bowl clean...

I was pretty happy and satisfied, and there was no need for dessert... beyond the usual selection of petits fours of fruit jelly, chocolate and cookies.

I did have a glass of wine, though... and my host chose the 2009 La Spinetta Chardonnay Lidia which I had on my last visit.  Ripe on the nose with marmalade notes, and also ripe and sweet on the palate.  Unfortunately, this meant I was looking a little red for my meeting after lunch...