Just like coffee in a mug, soda out of a glass bottle and cereal straight from the box, pasta served in a bowl is better than pasta served on its usual companion, a plate. When my steaming spaghetti pomodoro ($14.50) arrived, I nearly dove head first into the bowl with the intention of noisily (and gracefully) slurping each noodle into my mouth. I resisted the tempting option and resorted to the second best option, the spoon-fork swirl. The monstrous portion of classic spaghetti, tomatoes, roasted garlic and ricotta salata fulfilled my craving for a down-home comforting meal. Thankfully, the Italian fare transcended the pasta and watery red sauce prototype to which so many Philly restaurants subscribe. The grilled romaine and balsamic salad, the night’s special, imparted a pleasant charred flavor, and the salty tangy Gorgonzola perfectly balanced the grilled flavor.
While a rowdy group of Penn students may not feel at ease at this South Philly mainstay, L’Angolo’s exposed brick walls and open kitchen provide the perfect atmosphere for a tranquil and intimate meal. A glass of red wine (or a few) alongside a heaping bowl of pasta or a gargantuan plate of grilled chicken and marinated mushrooms ($16) will no doubt satisfy anyone’s hunger cravings. This no frills Italian feast is budget sensitiveand better than any West Philadelphia alternative.
While the service at times was slow, the meal was well worth the wait, especially for the male-interested clientele among us. The charming waiters could not be nicer and provide ample distraction during the between course wait.
Grab a fork and spoon and get ready to twirl those noodles. The pasta, antipasti, tiramisu and the wait staff — will make your trek to South Philly well worth it. Mangia!
L'Angolo Ristorante 1415 W. Porter St. (215) 389-4252 Don’t Miss: Antipasti platter replete with every vegetable Skip: If you're in a rush Bottom Line: Wine will make the waiting enjoyable
