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35 reviews
Neighborhood: Financial District
"This place has to be pretty damn good because I ended up finishing both slices!!!! Pizza Lovers unite in the Fidi at Pomodoro Pizza not…" read more »
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I doing a "copy and paste" from an earlier review. Absolutely awful. Rude, condescending, and just plain mean maitre'd ruined the evening - expect the same treatment unless you look like you're rich. I called the restaurant and asked about valet parking and which bus line was near them. Lorenzo was rude and was not helpful. FYI buddy - the 1 California stops at Sacramento and Jones - 4 block walk. What's up with their policy about removing all wine glasses from the table by 10 PM?
What makes Allegro Romano so unique:
1.) Every day is Valentine's Day. I'm talking rose petals scattered all over the tables and roses handed out to the ladies at the end of the meal. So, kinda awkward for the girl sitting next to me who was there with her dad.
2.) The owner, Lorenzo, can rock some loud plaid pants and busy silk shirts.
3.) On any given night, you might rub elbows with Mayor Newsom, Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore, and Omar Vizquel.
4.) You feel like you're a guest in Lorenzo's home in Italy. Instead of ordering yourself, tell him you want to do family style, and he'll pick the wine and dishes for you.
5.) A cab waits for you outside after you're done. Well, we happened to be the last ones there, so I don't know if this is automatically done for every customer, but they'll definitely call one for you if you need one.
The pastas are delicious -- you can't go wrong with any one of them. If you're indecisive like me (I'm a true Libra), just leave it up to Lorenzo!
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So on another Yelp recommendation, my friend and I decided to try Allegro Romano.
When we started ordering, all the items we picked were not available. It was only 8pm but I guess there was a shortage on soup and crab cakes. The food that we finally ended up getting was very good. I had the Veal Scallopine and my friend had the lobster ravioli. We had the bruschetta and salads to start. To make up for the food shortage the owner presented us with a dessert platter to die for.
My friend never liked Tiramisu but she loved Allegro's. It was so very good and it was a great way to end a delightful meal.
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This restaurant is cheesy in every way you'd expect from a cliche italian romantic dinner- from the voice mail message when you call for a reservation (you'll be alarmed by the booming "Bonjourno!" (pardon sp.), to the italian opera music, rose pedals scattered on the table, long-stem red roses given to the women, to the oh-so-euro sweater vest of the host. But, the cheesiness is endearing and particularly after a glass of their house red (phenomenal - just like ordering the house red in Italy) it actually becomes rather charming.
As for the food, it's solid Italian. Although I thought their bruscetta could have been improved if the bread was still warm, the tomatoes were fresh and perfectly seasoned. My hubby ordered the caprese which is difficult to mess up but also hard to stand out - although the pesto olive oil drizzle did make it more unique than others I've had in the city.
For the main course I had the Lobster Fetticini special in a roasted tomato sauce. They were generous with the lobster and the fetticini was house-made. Although I don't think the pasta itself was quite as good as Milano's, the dish was satisfying and tasted exactly like you'd expect - in a good way.
My husband ordered the steak which he gushed over, I think even claimed was the best italian steak he's ever had. From this dish alone, he'd give the restaurant 5 stars. I'm not a steak girl, but the bite I was able to negotiate off his plate was juicy and full of flavor - and not surprising it was so small.
The chocolate tiramisu was absolutely amazing - a must order. Perfectly traditional in execution, with the extra flare of chocolate powder on top.
All in all - quirky and cozy with traditional and well executed Italian fare. Great for a romantic date, as long as you don't take yourself too seriously.
I thought this whole time that I had already written this review but I guess I forgot. The so and I went here and I was so ridiculously excited after reading all the other reviews. The place wasn't full because it was early so we were excited about a quasi-romantic night. I was actually really looking forward to some embarrassing singing, some rose petals and some really friendly service. None of that happened. The ID check was really brusque, which pretty much summed up the whole experience. Since I basically only eat Italian food and I rarely stray from the city, I'm used to either bubbly, overdone super-friendly service or quiet, welcoming, formal dining service. This was more like I'd-like-to-get-you-people-out-of-here service, which actually really can damper an evening when I bought a dress and spent way too much on the food they were serving. The bussers were incredibly friendly, so I chatted with them. It's not that I expect the wait staff to be able to sit down and talk philosophy, but when I tried my few words of Italian and laughed, the guy looked at me like I was dressed in rags. Food was good, but pricey, and since I can't remember it, seemingly not that notable. Bummer.
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Absolutely awful. Rude, condescending, and just plain mean maitre'd ruined the evening - expect the same treatment unless you look like you're rich.
So here's what happened. I organized a dinner with 10 people from my nonprofit where we introduce members to a board of directors member every few months. By 10 minutes after our reservation 6 of the 10 of us are there, and the other four have called to say they're on their way.
The maitre'd comes over looking agitated and asks us where the other four are. We tell him they're almost here and he stomps off in a huff. 5 minutes later, he come back and tells us he's taking the other two tables away for other guests. What!?
We tell him it's only been 15 minutes, and this really gets him mad. He gets AGGRESSIVELY rude, waving his arms around, raising his voice and just being contemptuous overall. Needless to say, that makes all of us really uncomfortable, especially our VIP guest.
What really irks me though is that he acted so fawningly nice around other couples - I realized pretty quickly he'll treat you really nice if you're OLD and look RICH, and will treat you like DIRT otherwise.
I don't even remember how the food was - it was probably OK. But I'm NEVER going back.
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I was just messaged by what I assume is someone affiliated with Allegro Romano (no friends, no reviews, 35 pictures of Allegro, guests, and food) who asked me to take down my "untrue" review (which gave it an average 3 stars). When I refused, he cordially informed me I was blacklisted.
Fine by me.
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07/27/2008
I had been dying to try Allegro Romano after seeing the great Yelp reviews. Bottom line: the service… Read more »
Their creamy pasta dish (forgot what it was called, i think it was fettuccine alfredo) was the best pasta I've had in a few years. I went to a friend's birthday party here and ever since, I've been looking for a spot in my calendar to go back. And yeah, the owner was very hospitable and colorful.
One thing I do want to mention, though, is that it gets a little hot in the restaurant in the event of a freak heat wave.
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I was going to be lazy and not write a review because everyone already KNOWS that Allegro Romano rocks my (and your) socks. But I had to give props, in writing, after what happened on Friday night.
As expected, the four of us (two couples) had a fantabulous meal there that reminded me of the wonderful and quaint restaurants from my trip to Rome. We shared the scallop w/ risotto, bruschetta and beef carpaccio apps (all highly, highly recommended, but if you could only have one, go with the carpaccio). I had the scallopino, fiance and friend had the Willie Brown rigatoni, and friend's wife had the special pesto tortellini. Again, all were delicious.
And then the complementary biscotti w/ whip (which I know they give you even if you don't order dessert, although we did this time) and of course the complementary bottomless port.
But here's where it gets crazy, over-the-top, can you believe they actually did this part -- so we cab it back to our 'hood all the way in SOMA and friend's wife realizes that she left her clutch back at the restaurant. We knew they were closed by now since we were the last ones there but we tried calling anyway. And what did they do?
THE OWNER DROVE HIS PRIUS AND BROUGHT IT TO THE BAR WE WERE AT AROUND THE CORNER FROM OUR PAD. IN SOMA.
(And keep in mind that it's not like we're "regulars" or that we acted like we were worthy of that type of awesome treatment, i.e., we didn't tip 50% or anything like that.)
So here's the deal -- 5 stars for the restaurant, which includes food, service, ambiance, etc. etc. Another 5 stars for the oh-no-they-didn't (but in a good way) hospitality.
Now THAT is the epitome of going the extra mile.
Okay, so just so I'm being fair, there are a couple items to note that have really nothing to do with the restaurant, but that you should know if you're thinking of going there. (1) No parking. Cab it. Bus it. Walk it. But do NOT drive it. Yes, the owner saves some spots in front of the restaurant for his patrons, but you don't want to chance that it'll be available. (2) Not on OpenTable. But then, if they were, it'd probably be harder to get a reservation than it is now. And if you leave a message with your reservation info, make sure to call back to confirm.
The End. Still giving the place TEN freaking stars.
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My boyfriend surprised me by taking me here on our 1 year anniversary and it was absolutely magical. The food, service and ambiance are amazing and the price was very reasonable. Lorenzo is an incredible host and makes his patrons feel so welcome. All of the little touches, such as the roses, sample apps that we didn't order or pay for and the port at the end of the meal contributed to a very memorable evening for both of us. It earned by boyfriend some major browny points.
This place might be a little too romantic for casual dining with friends but if you want to share a special meal with a special someone, this is a great spot.
My friend Tim took me here because he says this place is the best Italian restaurant in SF. After dining here I have to agree with him. Loved the Rigatoni that is Willie's favorite.
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How could you not love a place where every day is Valentine's Day? This place is hilarious, and such a gem! They have this classy decor that is slightly marred by rose petals and heart-shaped votives on every table, but yet it works!
The host was wearing the most ridiculous red plaid pants , with a matching red sweater, but the service was amazing. After we finished our bottle of wine, they gave us free glasses of port, and then kept refilling them! I also think they gave the table next to us a free dessert, but maybe that was the wine talking. At one point, they gave all of the women roses as well. Too much - I loved it!
Let me not forget to comment on the food. I had sea bass, and it was scrumptious! My date had lamb, and he was very happy with it.
Huge thumbs up for Allegro Romano!
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I LOVE this place. I have been here several times over the past few years and every visit is a great experience. You are made to feel like a honored regular guest every time you go. The food is fantastic and you really get the opportunity to enjoy your meal as courses come slow and service is never rushed. It is very reminiscent of a tiny restaurant in Italy where you could stay for hours enjoying great food and company.
And the food kept coming...
Complimentary bruschetta to start, complimentary dessert plates (3 to be exact), and complimentary port to finish. I felt like I needed a wheelchair to roll me out of here after the obscene amount of food and wine that I consumed in my 2 hour dinner here. There was nothing special about our table of 4, but they made us feel like VIPs.
If you know anything about Italians and their food, and more importantly the way in which they serve it, this place will make you feel like you're back in Italy. Top notch service with friendly Italian waiters. Great food and great wine.
And the best part of the night was when that got everyone in the room to sing Dean Martin's "That's Amore" at the top of their lungs as a tribute to all the mom's in the room (for Mother's Day). Didn't know that was a "Mother's Day song" but it worked. My mom was happy. Buon appetito!
Overrated.
If your idea of romantic is listening to a playlist of o-sole-mio and similar greatest hits of Italian opera while 5 different waiters fuss over you, then well...
With all the tables cramped so close together, as you look to your side you feel like you're in a feedlot. Faces upon faces chewing in unison.
The waitstaff was constantly hovering over us, twice reaching down to straighten my fork. Why they bothered to do this I have no idea. They also asked me for ID, which was weird. And having finished my first drink halfway through, they took my glass without offering a refill. Aren't you supposed to ask?
And so rushed! I thought a place like this would let you settle into your meal. Not the case. Stuff was coming out of the kitchen so fast that we were done with 3 courses in just over an hour.
We left with a rose that they plopped down with the check, much like a 2-for-1 coupon. My heart sighed.
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Wow is all I have to say.
PERFECT romantic date night. Kick off with a little romantic music, red roses on the table, candle light, and a cute date...
Caprese salad for two and the lobster/crab raviolis.
Bottle of red wine and extremely attentive staff. The host/owner/server was adorable. He moved us between salad and entrees to accommodate a large group coming in, but we were happy to switch booths.
Super small joint. Make reservations for a special occasion. I even left with a red rose.... I know I know. Sounds cheesy but this chick needs a little cheesy romance every once and awhile.
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I am very hesitant to write a review of this place because I don't want to ruin the neigborhood spirit of the place and have it invaded by a bunch of tourists. This might possibly be my new favorite restaurant. I went here for my birthday, and the food and service couldn't have been better. I had the fettuccine with white truffle sauce which was amazing, as was the gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce and the rigatoni alla amatriciana that my parents got. They also gave us complimentary bruschetta as an appetizer and biscotti with strawberries (and a candle) for dessert. If that wasn't enough, complimentary port came next which they kept refilling until we left. Then, they offered to call us a cab and as we were leaving, the owner handed my mom and I roses. Everything was fantastic and I almost want to tell all of my friends to go here but I also want to keep it my little secret.
I almost don't want to review this place so that this little gem of a place will not be revealed.
Lorenzo is AMAZING! In the kitchen, serving wine, parking cars, singing and just being very hospitable.
I've come here several times to take clients out for dinner. Never have I seen the menu but I'm sure one exists. Come with a healthy appetite if you go for the tasting menu.
To Start..... Capreses salad, salumi, beef carpaccio, melon wrapped prosciutto, salmon roe rolls, bruschetta, and asparagus w/ lots of parmesan.
Next.... Fresh tortellini pasta with alfredo sauce and truffle oil, sirloin with mashed potatoes and veggies, THEN.... sea bass a la picatta w/ garlic spinach
To finish.... tiramisu, cheesecake, key lime tart, chocolate espresso cake
All that washed down with 4 bottles of wine and Lorenzo still tops us off with a glass of port and leaves the bottle for us to free pour if we'd like some more.
I can't even begin with which one is my favorite. Carpaccio, bruschetta, sea bass, tiramisu, key lime tart. The entire meal was a great feast of good food, good wine, and good company.
Don't forget to sing That's Amore otherwise the song will not end.
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Checked this place out because of Yelpers! And it was wonderful, my husband and I will definitely go again. Service superb, food seasoned perfectly couldn't ask for a better dinner experience. We had early reservations (because I waited till Friday evening to make a Saturday reservation) 6pm. We were seated promptly and offered a choice of water. The menu had many wonderful choices and a the evening specials all sounded good. I chose from one of the evenings specials of Chilean Sea Bass served on mashed potatoes with spinach and capers with a lemon sauce. The fish was seared on the outside and moist and flaky on the inside, seasoned perfectly I didn't have to add any salt ( and I love salt) My husband had crab and lobster ravioli's in a pink vodka sauce that looked equally delectable. Oh and we had a bowl of Lobster bisque that was creamy smooth with light pieces of Lobster very tasty to start. Then we shared a piece of Tiramisu with very fresh biscotti, it was very light and finished our meal off perfectly! Our server was marvelous and I got a photo( check it out I'm the non famous one "Susan") with him, he looked stunning in his pink attire and made our evening very memorable. He also gave me a beautiful rose before I left. We also walked around the beautiful neighborhood with its breathtaking views. A really nice place to bring out of towners. The ambiance of the place was warm and inviting, its very small but cozy. If you called with enough notice there's a nice table in the window seat right in front. There's contemporary tasteful art on the walls and each table was lightly covered in the center with rose petals and confetti making it very festive. The bathroom was very clean and quite "art deco" with its mosaic mirrored walls! A overall very enjoyable experience.
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Because the business I'm in encourages me to dine @ different places, I'm lucky enough to be spoiled by some very generous restauranteurs. Lorenzo is definitely @ the top of my list!
We plop ourselves down & before we hit the seats, wine is already on it's way and an amazing and limitless array of antipasti. I beg to stop there but the food continues coming out - pasta course, juicy fish and the best sauteed greens I've had. How simple is the saute on the veggies but I can never get it this good! The dessert's are secondary. Very attentive service! My 4-star rating @ this time is a comment I received the next day when some guests dined there. I don't know the circumstances but the complaint was 'rude, inattentive server, good food but I should think twice about sending people there'. That bother's me but I've got to get down to the bottom of this & find out what happened. Then maybe I'll go back to 5-stars...... Hey, I still love this place & it won't stop me from sending people there - just with a little caveat.
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My folks came out for a visit last month and happened to be here for their anniversary. My dad mentioned he wanted Italian food, so thanks to you Yelpers and your recommendation, I took them here. All the food was amazing right down to the desserts. Of the entrees we tried, you couldn't go wrong with any of them (the Rigatoni alla Amatriciana, the Ravioli di Aragosta in Salsa Rosa, and the ravioli special of the evening). And the desserts were amazing as well. Only con is the parking in the neighborhood but the owner was nice enough to let us park in front of the fire hydrant saying, "don't worry, the cops always ask me before they tow a car."
We had a group dinner here for my boyfriend's birthday and it was an absolutely lovely time. 4 stars for food, 5 stars for everything else.
We had the table in the front (note, it gets cold up front!), which was decorated with glitter and rose petals, which added to the "special occasion" feel. The service was excellent! Seriously, 5 stars for service. The staff was attentive and friendly and even helped our friends find parking in the neighborhood! I wish all restaurants did that.
On to the food -- the caprese salad was delicious and better than most places that I've been to. The mozzarella just melts in your mouth. We also ordered the melon and prosciutto (which was gorgeous), the bruschetta (very yum) and the salmon carpaccio (awesome -- you must order -- the salmon was basically cooked in the lemon juice and very flavorful). Instead of oil and vinegar, they have this dipping paste -- not sure what it is, but it tastes a little of anchovies and is pretty addicting.
I started with the lobster bisque, which was rich and flavorful. I doubled up on the lobster and ordered the special homemade fettucine with lobster, which was a bit on the salty side but otherwise, very tasty with good size chunks of lobster. My boyfriend ordered the tortellini with white truffle oil and pesto. I had a bite and it was also very good.
We were all stuffed so didn't order dessert, but they brought out some complimentary dessert and port for us for the birthday celebration, which I thought was a very nice touch.
We ordered 3 bottles of wine off the menu, all of which were good and reasonably priced.
I really wish I lived in the neighborhood so I could come here more often. The restaurant is super cute and cozy! I would definitely recommend for a romantic night out or with a small group.
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Yelp should make 5+++ stars available just for establishments like this one. I was here last night with a big birthday party, and we all had a phenomenal time. At first I was a little worried that our group would overpower the quaint restaurant. But with the gracious wait staff, Lorenzo dancing through the tables in his red and gold sneakers, rose petals and confetti adorning the tables, Sade's "No Ordinary Love" streaming through the speakers, and the parade of delicious food, Allegro Romano is a celebration all its own. By no means is any of this corny, rather you feel like you're having the best of times at a friend's dinner party in their comfortable Russian Hill home.
The food here is incredible. Simple Italian fare bursting with robust and memorable flavors. For appetizers, we had the beef and salmon carpaccio, fresh buffala mozzarella, and scallops risotto- all which tickled our palate and left us wanting more. And there was more, much much more. I had the fettuccine with lobster in a rustic tomato sauce. It was one of the specials of the night, and by lobster I don't mean a few petty clumps of meat scattered throughout your pasta. We're talking about half a lobster tail complete with a claw. Some of the other favorites at the table were the gnocchi, home-made lobster and crab stuffed ravioli, salmon alla romano- actually forget it, everything that we ordered was fantastic.
Many restaurants spend too much time and energy in their food and not enough in the dining experience. At Allegro Romano, it is obvious that the front of the house works just as hard as the back. I can not praise enough the outstanding level of service that we received from Lorenzo, his wife (or at least I think she's his wife), and the staff that tended to our every request before we even had to ask. Our glasses were always filled with their signature Chianti, the bread basket was always full, and the dirty plates were whisked away and replaced with clean ones before anyone even noticed. They even turned off the lights when the birthday cake was brought out and everyone participated in the birthday song and dance. Even though we got the cake from Cheesecake Factory, they courteously sliced and plated it for us, even adding a personal touch by sprinkling powdered chocolate on each plate.
There are many excellent restaurants in the City, but only a few who really put their heart into their food. Allegro Romano definitely has the soul that eludes so many of their competitors, not only because they play Sade and flatter you with roses at the end of the evening, but because it is very clear that they are truly passionate about Italian cooking and 100% committed to their clientele.
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After the amazing reviews, I expected to be blown away. I was genuinely hoping to discover my new favorite restaurant. We love Italian, and it's in the 'hood.
I have to say, Allegro Romano offers great value and outstanding food, but the overall experience was a B for me. Service was just okay, and the tables were placed so close together that we may as well have been at dinner with both our neighbors. I'm talking zero privacy.
I'll definitely give it another try, because I was impressed with the food and prices. I suspect that a week night dinner might offer an entirely different experience. It seems like the owner is the only one that banters with guests, and he was just too busy to give us any love. Perhaps during the week we'd get a bit more of his time and be able to enjoy the warmth this restaurant is known for.
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I have to agree with many of the other positive reviews - we had a really nice time here. The host/owner? is most definitely someone who wants to be remembered but you soon realize that what he'll be remembered for is his warm hospitality as opposed to the color spectrum of his wardrobe.
They are definitely on the generous side with their assortment of amuse bouche...from the bruschetta to the biscottis and strawberries to the port - a very nice touch.
We started with the asparagus which was delicious but how can you go wrong with good olive oil and cheese? I had "Willie Brown's favorite" which was quite flavorful. Hubby had the bolognese and while the pasta itself was good - I didn't care for the sauce.
The service is most attentive without being intrusive. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and will be back.
Wow, I hope to keep this my little secret... but I am so nice to share! This place is amazing. I'll continue to go here with friends, family, big groups or small. A romantic success is how I'd describe this quaint Russian Hill neighborhood Restaurant. The food is delicious, the ambiance is serene and Lorenzo is my new best friend.
As a guest you'll feel well taken care of. Each table looks like it is set up for a special occasion, which is how it should be every time you eat out.
We filled our tummies with the most delicious sea bass and fillet mignon. Mmmm... And they wont let you leave without tasting at least one or every dessert they have on the menu.
The portions are plentiful and the price's are unbelievably amazing for the service and food your receive.
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Party of four. No special occasion.
We had the 58$ sampling menu.
Very delicious. Every course was refined and distinct. What you would have expected.
Everything was superb, the service was good.
Only thing that I will say is parking could be a bit tricky. (plan 15-30 mins for parking).
I wasn't sure what to expect of this place. To my surprise, the restaurant has such a warm feeling. Almost thought I was back in Italy... very romantic with lots of great food and pairing wine recommended from Lorenzo himself. I give this place a thumbs up in Russian Hill.
Perfect neighborhood italian spot in the middle of a residential neighborhood in russian hill. It is a very small place, with great, authentic roman food and no representation whatsoever on opentable.com. (thank god) Spoiler: your (female) date will get a flower on the way out the door from the very friendly and sociable owner, Lorenzo. Also, be warned, you will leave painfully full.
In summary: You wouldn't like it, please don't go here. Or limit it to once per year. Thanks!
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This restaurant is amazing. Romantic setting, excellent wine selection, and unbelievable food and service. It is a perfect neighborhood restaurant that is hidden away from all the busy turist spots. A little secret that needs to be shared with the world.
The place had such promise - and I was SO excited to try it based on reviews and just passing by it for the past year and a half, but sadly some of the decisions that the management made ended up affecting my overall opinion - and let's be honest, the food is good - but it's not at all deserving of a five star or even four star on yelp.
First - ambience is AMAZING. So fun, cute and everything. Fun music, very attentive bussers, rose petals and confetti on the table - very fun. At one point the owner even turned the music up and encouraged people to sing and dance - it was definitely fun to watch (though turning the lights completely out while we were trying to eat was definitely interesting).
So, onto the food. First, they took forever to take our wine order. Whatever, got over it, because we finally got it and it was for a friend's birthday so it was fine to have a leisurely italian meal.
Then, we were asked (after ordering our entrees) whether we wanted to order appetizers for the table. We answered yes - thinking he would note how much we had all ordered as entrees and not overdo it on appetizers. We were grossly mistaken - every single appetizer on his menu came out (aside from brsuchetta, which I would have liked...). These were:
Asparagus w/ parmasen (OMG AMAZING you must try!)
Tomatoes with mozz and seasonings (definitely recommended)
Melon w/ proscuitto (ok - the melon was so sweet, i'm just not a fan of this dish)
Carpaccio (seemed good - not a huge fan of carpaccio)
Pate (didn't try)
Then we got entrees too. The boyfriend and I shared the filet and the crab/lobster ravioli. To be honest, the filet wasn't very good - stringy actually (which filets should not be) so clearly wasn't the best quality meat. And the ravioli, though the pink sauce was excellent, was a little too fishy and therefore not fresh.
Last, and the main gripe I have about this place, is that, although it was my friend's birthday, it should ALWAYS be a restaurant's policy to check in w/ a table prior to sending non-comped desserts to the table. ESPECIALLY if the desserts total $60! Not impressed. Bad business, and definitely won't be returning.
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so there we were.... wandering down Hyde street. we thought would probably just hit up Luella when..... the stars just suddenly aligned and fate stepped in.
there it was, just sitting there. the most charming place ever. Allegro Romano.
BTW, this is my new favorite restaurant. *be prepared for possible gushing*
you walk in and are immediately greeted by Lorenzo the owner who treats you like he's welcoming you into his home. he's a very funny and passionate italian man who bends over backwards to make sure your experience is perfection.
its very tiny, cute and pure coziness. fresh rose petals sprinkled on our table, frank Sinatra was playing and Lorenzo walked around talking to people and pouring wine. admittedly, at first i felt there was little cheesiness to the whole overly-romantic atmosphere, but then i later decided that's what i loved the most.
the menu did not disappoint either. we started with the carpaccio and then both ordered the lobster/crab ravioli..... the ravioli had this amazing pink vodka sauce that was to die for. i'm not a fan of sweets and never get dessert but aaron ordered the chocolate truffle and insisted i try a bite. since i had drank a lot of wine i complied..... mmm
i could tell there were a lot of regulars in here because as if on cue, lorenzo then led (without anyone batting an eye) the entire restaurant in a group sing-a-long of That's Amore. being the queen of karaoke, i had no problem joining in. some people actually got up to dance, i'm not even kidding. totally hilarious.
by this time the port came out.... and Lorenzo made sure everyone's glass was full. i started to feel a bit toasty from the port and judging by the loud volume of laughter in there so was everyone else. eventually the fun had to end though.... aaron and I had to get back to his house for a little party he was having. we didn't want to leave, it was difficult.
a hundred million stars for Lorenzo and his precious little place.... outstanding food and a great time! I don't think I've ever dined at a restaurant with so much personality in my entire life.
GUYS: if you're looking for a quiet, private dining experience this may not be the place to bring a date.... but otherwise exquisitely romantic in that fun, cheesy way. trust me.
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I walked by this place with my boyfriend, and it looked bustling. We read the yelp reviews and were so excited to try it. It sounded like my type of place: unpretentious, hearty, tasty food, and a charming owner who seemed destined to become a close friend. In the end, we were very disappointed, and both agreed we don't want to go back.
First, the owner would only give us a reservation at 6pm, he said that was the only table he had all night. It was friday night so I took the reservation, but when we got there it was clear that this was not the only available table. The restaurant was completely empty the entire time we were there (6-7:30), except for an elderly couple and a couple with a very loud baby. Needless to say the atmoshphere was not great: half staff meeting, half toddler daycare, but mostly just totally empty!!! (Really, we couldn't have come in at 6:30? 7?)
We found the owner to be pretty rude. When we first walked in, he yelled to the hostess from outside to stop (she was directing us to a corner booth), and had us stand in the middle of the restaurant while he came in and put us at the worst table, right by the entrance to the back. Then he proceeded to comment and sort of complain to the staff about different parties and reservations they had for the night. After listening to the owner bitch, (so awkward)... he took our order, (literally we both felt nervous by that point) and then rudely asked for our IDs when we ordered wine, really bizarre.
We ordered the ceaser salad with crab, beef carpaccio, the famous crab and lobster ravioli, and the scallopini. Uh, the beef carpaccio was really good, the salad was just OK, the crab tasted really fishy. The ravioli was totally ordinary (I prefer many of the pre-made ones you can get at TJs). I'm really confused as to what the reviews raved about. The scallopini was barely average too, with mashed potatoes and boring steamed vegetables.
On a positive note, the tables were creatively decorated, the chef sent out a free strawberry desert and the busboy gave me a pretty rose from the centerpiece. Clearly, the staff takes care to make the restaurant a special place.
However, the food was really average, the owner hostile (or maybe in a bad mood, or we somehow offended him?)....It definitely wasn't the special, delicious experience I expected. It was awkward and I couldn't wait to leave.
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Outstanding! I had read some of the reviews on yelp and was skeptical of all of the amazing reviews. Well this place lives up to every 5 star review it receives. They really do make you feel like you are a VIP guest. The service was outstanding. The food was outstanding. Thank you for a wonderful night Allegro.
A good place for groups like a bday party. The staff here is very friendly and boisterous. Things here are served family style for sharing. Apple is a firm believer in family style sharing when it comes to eating. Why eat something if everyone can't enjoy it? There are many dishes here like pasta and fish. Everything is very rich so come prepared to indulge.
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love the location,
no fucking tourists,
simple food, affordable wines,
great , a bit cheesy, atmosphere.
Lorenzo the owner always make me feel so welcome,
I always leave a bit drunk...fall down on the way out...I feel right at home!
love that little place.
