The first Cenacolo on Graham Street must’ve been doing something right to justify this second model on the quieter, calmer Arbuthnot Road.

Cenacolo II is a modern Italian establishment with straight-backed chairs, square tables and a moody, slightly romantic vibe. It also has an impressive pasta menu that could rival your local greasy spoon’s in its vast selection.

Our waiter was an interesting fellow—he was jolly enough, but we couldn’t be certain whether he was harmlessly sarcastic or irrationally irritated whenever he struck a conversation with us. But we let this uncertainty slip, because we’re here for the food.

The Parma and cantaloupe starter was generously portioned though forgettable, and we would have preferred the meat slices to be thinner and more delicately cut. The pasta “Al Dente” that we ordered, on the other hand, was fantastic. Luscious, firm locks of linguine were given a white wine and garlic treatment and paired with smoky chicken slices, multi-colored bell peppers, jalapeno and spinach. Topped with a lively dose of parsley, one couldn’t ask for a simpler, more refreshing dish.

Another member of the group ordered a steak, which they liked well enough, but we think we were the wiser. Cenacolo II is a bit of a journey to get to, especially when the first one is so accessible, but we might just be back for another round.