My favorite golden pasta

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...