Basso Restaurant & Wine Bar

Nestled in the heart of Westport, CT, Basso Restaurant & Wine Bar is a Mediterranean gem where the vibrant flavors of the region come alive with sophistication and warmth. Specializing in an inspired array of small plates, Neapolitan-style pizzas, and handcrafted pastas, Basso delivers a dining experience that feels both elevated and inviting, perfect for intimate evenings or lively gatherings.

The menu at Basso is a treasure trove of culinary craftsmanship. Start your meal with the Baby Carrots with Smoked Romesco, where roasted, hand-peeled carrots meet a smoky almond-rich Romesco sauce, balancing earthiness with subtle heat in every bite. If you crave a savory crunch, the pan-seared Brussels Sprouts, seasoned simply with sea salt and extra virgin olive oil, are a fresh, addictive companion. Seafood lovers will revel in the Calamares A La Plancha—calamari sautéed to tender perfection with olive oil, garlic, and cracked pepper, exuding a delicately charred aroma that whets the appetite.

No Mediterranean meal at Basso would be complete without indulging in their signature Neapolitan pizzas. The Pizza Funghi enchants with wild mushrooms, caramelized onions, creamy goat cheese, and a drizzle of luxurious black truffle oil, creating a harmony of earthy, sweet, and umami flavors. For a spicy, bold twist, the Pizza Casablanca stuns with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, an olive mix, and fiery hot cherry peppers that awaken the palate. Lovers of classic Italian textures and tastes will find comfort in the authentic Pizza Margherita, with its luscious buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil, kissed by extra virgin olive oil.

The pasta and specialties are thoughtfully crafted—highlighted by dishes like the Chicken Scarpariello Cavatelli: tender cavatelli tossed in a vibrant lemon sauce with hot cherry peppers and white wine, crowned by Parmigiano Reggiano. For a luxurious main course, the Alaskan Halibut is a masterpiece, pan-seared and presented over a rich lobster bisque, garnished with crisp potato chips for added texture.

What truly makes Basso shine is the consistently flawless execution paired with an atmosphere that is both trendy and relaxing. Guests describe it as a serene yet lively space that feels meticulously curated without any hint of pretension. The warm, attentive service adds a personal touch, making every visit feel like a special occasion.

Longtime patrons, like Lisa Belton, have praised Chef Renato’s ability to keep the menu exciting after 15 years, noting that every dish is “perfectly prepared and generously portioned.” Others rave about the standout pizzas and tapas, with highs for dishes like hanger steak, potatoes brava, and empanadas, which are made with equal parts passion and finesse. Whether you’re there for a romantic date or a festive company outing, Basso’s accommodating staff and inviting vibe create an unforgettable dining experience that Westport diners eagerly return to time and again.

In every detail—from ingredient quality and presentation to the thoughtfully curated wine list—Basso Restaurant & Wine Bar exemplifies Mediterranean dining at its finest, leaving a lasting impression on your senses and your soul.