As twilight descended upon the ambiance of the outdoor canopy, I took my seat, ready to embark on a culinary journey of flavours. A glass of white wine, though modest in its pour, promised a delicate companion to the forthcoming feast. With a sense of anticipation, I summoned the Scialatielli pasta adorned with clams, mussels, and squid—a composition that held the potential for a harmonious seafood symphony.
Alas, as the dish arrived before me, my hopes encountered a disappointing setback. The portion, meager in its dimensions, scarcely spanned four inches in diameter and two inches in depth. The pasta, regrettably undercooked, lacked the desired al dente texture that elevates this dish to its rightful glory. As my fork entwined with the squid, a disheartening realization unfolded—the rings seemed to bear the mark of frozen captivity, their freshness diluted and their texture lamentably rubbery.
Turning my attention to the mussels, only a paltry quintet graced the plate, and to compound the disappointment, one of them remained defiantly sealed, withholding its succulent treasures. As for the clams, a mere pair of diminutive shells whispered of their presence, their contents offering a fleeting glimpse of oceanic essence.
In this moment, the symphony of flavors I had yearned for fell short, failing to reach the crescendo of satisfaction. Like a broken note amidst a promising melody, the humble composition before me left a lingering sense of unfulfilled desires and an appreciation for the importance of consistency and generosity in the...
Read moreWe were drawn in to Antico Borgo by a respectable 4.3-star rating on Google. However, I must admit, I was utterly baffled by the disparity between the ratings and our experience. For a restaurant situated on the glorious Amalfi Coast and claiming to uphold Italian culinary standards, the execution was terribly off the mark.
The pizza felt as if I were biting into a sponge – surely not the texture one would expect from a traditional Italian crust. To make matters worse, the pasta, while looking deceptively appetizing on the outside, was cold on the inside and with three minuscule and barely cooked eggplant cubes, giving away its reheated nature. I half-joked to my dining partner that I felt as though I was eating supermarket-grade food, but at a markup that would suggest it was prepared by a Michelin-starred chef.
And let's not forget about the bread - a staple in Italian dining. While I wouldn't necessarily expect a complimentary opera performance with my meal, I did anticipate some olive oil to accompany the bread. But alas, it was not to be.
What made the experience all the more puzzling was the fact that the restaurant was entirely empty. Yet, despite the available options, we were not afforded the courtesy of choosing our table.
In sum, while the ambiance of the Amalfi Coast never disappoints, I'm sad to say that Antico Borgo did. Perhaps others had different experiences, hence the 4.3 stars, but I'd implore you to temper your expectations if you decide to...
Read moreNestled in the enchanting beauty of Pontone, Antico Borgo is much more than just a restaurant; it's an experience that captivates you from the very first moment. But the true soul of this place is Carmen, the owner, who greets every guest not as a customer but as a member of the family, with a warmth and professionalism that makes all the difference.
Beyond the exceptional hospitality, the restaurant's terrace offers a breathtaking panoramic view that adds an extra layer of magic to the dining experience. Perched high above, you can take in the stunning landscape while you dine, making the meal a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
As for the food, the kitchen offers dishes that celebrate tradition with a touch of elegance. The ingredients are fresh and of the highest quality, and every bite tells a story of authentic flavors. The portions are generous and the prices are fair—a rare and precious combination.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a place to eat divinely and, at the same time, feel at home, Antico Borgo is the right choice. Carmen's love, dedication, and the spectacular views from the terrace make every evening unforgettable. It’s a place you'll gladly return to, not just for the food, but for the extraordinary welcome and the stunning scenery that sets it apart.
Wonderful, we will come back...
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