Pacino's — Restaurant in South Tyneside

Have been going to pacinos for a number of years although just in last couple of months lots of staff changes and can only assume chef changes as the food has gone downhill dramatically ! My husband ordered a medium steak which arrived, my own calzone pizza came burnt and rock hard on the top, to which I was told " that's just how it comes " I disputed that and requested it be taken away and another brought. Whilst waiting my husbands steak although tasty was not cooked as requested which was medium, it was more well done, by the time my calzone arrived I was eating alone, it was very tasty but not ideal as my husband had finished eating his meal ! The staff were very apologetic and offered a free drink or dessert which we both politely declined, and proceeded to pay £55 for a meal we didn't get to enjoy together. What was rather interesting is although the 3 young men that were back and forth to our table and did apologise ( which we reassured was not their fault) and assured us would highlight to the manager, the manager failed to acknowledge or even come to discuss, he stood speaking to a couple and seemed to avoid at all costs. Pacinos has been a firm favourite of ours for many years and always like to support local businesses in the town we live, as well as dining in the restaurant we frequently order takeways to be delivered. It's just a shame the management hide behind their muc younger and inexperienced staff and shy away from issues arising due to poorly and...

It's got to the stage we are becoming regulars and our drinks arrive at the table as our bums hit the seat. My wife and I had our first meal together in this restaurant 14 years ago and visited a few times as love blossomed and we ended up living in the town. 12 years living elsewhere found us visiting the town for the famous run of curry restaurants but Italian restaurant visits always seemed to be few and far between and living over 20 miles away we always ended up hitting one without visiting South Shields. In the past year however an impromptu visit here has left us regulars and I can't see anything changing that. The host is a very nice guy and was there 14 years ago. The food is simply fantastic. A home made Italian feel and very well prepared. We have to keep ourselves from finding any excuse to visit. Not only the best Italian food but great steaks. My wife has now become a regular steak eater having never previously been a steak fan. The meat melts in your mouth. I favour the bolognese as its one of the best I have tasted regardless of which restaurant or indeed country I have been eating. I can't fault the food or...

This place is always fantastic, whether you're celebrating a birthday, enjoying a dinner for two, or having a simple meal by yourself. The food is delicious, with generous portions, and they cater to a variety of dietary needs. I always go for the gluten-free pasta, which is brilliant and satisfying.

A downside is the music. It used to be fun Italian tunes, but now they play pop music. While it's not a major issue, it's worth mentioning.

+The chefs clearly know what they're doing and deserve a tip! Whenever we ask for something a little different, they always accommodate us and take great care. Just because you can't see them, don't forget about their skill and passion for the food they make. It's always been fresh and piping hot from the kitchen.

The prices have increased over the years. While I understand inflation, it's noticeable. For example, pizza used to be £6 but now ranges from £9 to £12. It's all relative, but worth mentioning.

The staff are exceptional—always kind and attentive, making you feel genuinely welcomed. I've been coming here since I was 12, and now, at 28, I can confidently say it's a...