Here’s the low-down on the latest action:

The Beef: The steak tenderloin was meticulously executed, exactly the way we asked for it. Medium rare with a seared crust and slightly bloody in the center. I had almost-tears in my eyes…because this never happens in Shanghai, where chefs almost always overcook steaks.

The chef here is from Puglia, so flavors are bolder and more intense than food from the North. The pastas are saucier, the risottos are richer, and the pizzas are more flavorful. The menu selection is extensive, and you can’t go wrong.

The Gang: Italian regulars and friends seem to gather around, and everyone seems to be “famiglia” here – the real kind, not the “Godfather” kind. The décor and vibe here took me back to a home-owned restaurant in Southern Italy, or at the very least “Little Italy” back in NYC.

The Damage: Approx. 250-300RMB/person for dinner. 68RMB & 98RMB set menu lunches.

The Down n’ Dirty: Shared with the other 2 restaurants on the floor, it serves its purpose.

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