Outside patio dining area at DiPietro's European Bistro at 3105 Santa Clara Drive, Santa Clara, Dec. 3, 2014 | Photo by Ali Hill, St George News

OPINION – There’s a new restaurant in town.

And it’s straight out of a fairytale.

DiPietro’s, tucked away in Santa Clara, serves authentic European cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The location itself is enchanting. It’s especially pretty after dark, when the twinkling lights illuminate the diminutive bistro, causing it to effortlessly achieve a romantic and cheerful ambience. The tables are decorated with fresh flowers, making every dining experience both cozy and delightful.

If you happen to visit on a warm day, dine on the patio. There’s really not a more charming atmosphere that can top eating outside at this quaint little neighborhood gem.

As for the food – well, that’s the best part! For breakfast, I’d recommend the Belgian waffle. Mainly because it’s topped with whipped cream and your choice of gelato and fruit. Gelato for breakfast? Yes, please. (Told you this place was magical!)

If you’re not craving something sweet, try an omelette. The caprese omelette (basil, tomato, and mozzarella) is divine, but you also can’t go wrong with the simple omelette (ham & cheese). Whatever you order, pair it with the fresh-squeezed orange juice.

Lunch and dinner share the same petite menu, but the quality definitely makes up for the quantity. For starters, choose from one of the four empanada selections (chicken, beef, caprese, and ham & cheese). Or, if you’re with a group – the charcuterie plate (cheese, meat, olives, bread, and dressing) is a lovely dish to share.

When it comes to the main entree, all you really need to know is that you can’t visit DiPietro’s without trying the signature menu item: lasagna.

I know, I know – what could possibly make this classic dish any better than any other lasagna you’ve tried? Let me explain.

Instead of using a traditional marinara sauce, Chef Javier does things differently with a signature white sauce. And it’s life changing! His complete special recipe consists of: fresh noodles, layered with Italian sausage and beef, crowned with the glory of Bechamel sauce, baked mozzarella, and romano cheese.

What more could you ask for? Well, besides two scoops of real Italian gelato for dessert.

FYI: If you don’t have time for a meal, you can still pay a visit to the darling gelato bar outside in the courtyard.

It’s also important to note that every menu item is made fresh from scratch, so if you are in a hurry, call ahead! They’ll have it ready for you when you arrive.

So next time you’re craving big bold European flavor with European ambiance, I promise this new restaurant will take good care of you. And your tastebuds, too.

Bon Appetit!