Il Borgo Restaurant Review: When the fastidious Italian in-laws come to visit, we bring them here, and---as is usually the case on each candlelit table in the small space---every plate is licked clean. In a city of generally overwrought, soulless or expensive Italian-American cuisine, Milanese chef Sergio Fregerio maintains an inexpensive simplicity and authenticity at this unexpected Hayes Valley winner, reminiscent of New York’s Little Italy, Boston’s North End---or Rome’s Trastevere. Blistered, wood-fired pizzas are thin, crispy and decorated with simple, fresh tomato, mozzarella and basil. The chef’s specials include a first-rate, ne’er-too-salty fettuccine Bolognese, lingering artichoke ravioli in fresh salsa di pomodoro, and a “lasagnetta” dish of rolled noodles stuffed with prosciutto and mozzarella. Portions and prices are just right, atmosphere is old-country-kitsch (murals and wax-covered Chianti-bottle candleholders) and service is old-fashioned nearly to a fault---native servers can be either obsequious or brassy, and a high Italian energy ricochets about the space along with the language. Desserts, however, are inconsistent, no matter how tempting the tiramisu. Note: The restaurant is cash only, but there is an ATM machine on the premises.
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Splurging at top-rated restaurants is fun for special events, but where can you go for a good quality meal that won't break the bank? Gather the change out of your piggy bank and sofa cushions and take it to one of our selections for the best cheap eats in your area.
