Cougar moment.

Had a date with a younger, adorable, successful Italian businessmen.

Don’t get your panties in a twist…my husband and daughter were present.

I am crazy about Francesco who could actually be my alter ego.

We love breaking bread with him at his fabulous restaurant, Sociale, located in scenic Brooklyn Heights.

We try to visit often.

Dining with Francesco at Sociale is like having Thanksgiving with people you actually like.

His staff has been with him from opening day and are such dedicated, lovely, hard working immigrants…a real asset to this country contrary to what our dictator is espousing.

At Sociale, the food is always spectacular, service attentive yet unobtrusive, the boutique Italian wines affordable and first rate.

Francesco joins us and we laugh and chat for hours, no topic is off limits.

If I lived nearby, I would probably never cook.

Saturday night we partook in an array of new dishes, each one incredibly delicious.

Swordfish with Caponata and Fried Citrus Fennel

Sociale should be on your bucket list…it is a must.

And, please take note of the bicycle permanently ensconced outside the restaurant.

It is a reminder of how important and necessary immigrants are to this country.

Francesco arrived from Italy bursting with a desire to succeed, brimming with ambition and a huge heart.

His began his quest as a pizza delivery guy thus his original yellow bike proudly propped outside Sociale, a symbol of how far he has come in such a short time.

Francesco is now a successful restaurateur, adored by the folks in the ‘hood and has made quite a name for himself…the yellow bike is still used for deliveries, a constant reminder to stay grounded.

Beyond his success, he is a genuine, caring friend and a righteous human being.

Ben Fatto, dear Francesco!

And now, another amazing course please and a glass of voluptuous Italian red.

Sociale 72 Henry Street Brooklyn Heights, New York.