Since 1982, Mama Tosca’s Ristorante Italiano has kept Bakersfield fed with its lineup of Italian classics.
Owner Bruno Garcia, who has run the restaurant since 2023, carries on the traditions started by founders Luigi and Toni Rienzo, sons of the namesake “Mama,” Tosca Adelina Rienzo.
For this feature, Garcia shared a recipe for spaghetti alla carbonara, a classic Roman recipe that he describes as “simple, bold and timeless.” Regulars may know the version made with fettuccine at the restaurant in The Marketplace.
“At Mama Tosca’s, this dish is our tribute to Rome: honest, elegant and full of soul,” he wrote.
Of the entree he wrote, “Few dishes define Roman cuisine like spaghetti alla carbonara. With just a handful of ingredients, this iconic pasta proves that true Italian cooking is about technique, balance and respect for tradition.”
He said the secret to carbonara’s creaminess comes from eggs, cheese and technique.
“Heat control and constant movement are what transform simple ingredients into something unforgettable,” he wrote.
Mama Tosca’s is located at 9000 Ming Ave., Suite K2.
Visit mamatoscas.com or call 661-831-1242 for more information.
Spaghetti alla carbonara
Serves 4
32 ounces spaghetti
8 slices pancetta or bacon, diced
4 egg yolks
4 tablespoons pecorino romano, finely grated
1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
Salt (for pasta water)
Cook the spaghetti in generously salted boiling water until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, slowly render the pancetta in a pan over medium/low heat until crisp and aromatic, allowing the fat to melt gently.
In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with pecorino Romano and black pepper until thick and creamy.
Reserve a cup of hot pasta water and transfer the pasta directly into the pan with the pancetta and toss to coat. Remove from heat.
Temper the egg mixture with a splash of hot pasta water, then pour it over the pasta, tossing continuously. Add more pasta water as needed until the sauce becomes silky and glossy, clinging perfectly to the spaghetti.
Finish with extra cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.
Stefani Dias can be reached at 661-395-7488. Follow her on X at @realstefanidias.
Dining and Cooking