Spice level warning — Osso Buco is not what I expected

I underestimated Osso Buco. The deeply savory description didn't prepare me for the reality. fresh basil brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

Italian cooking is intensely regional with little crossover between provinces. The a Neapolitan pizzeria setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. limoncello after the meal cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.