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| - My second time here was last night since I relocated to the Steel City from The Big Apple. In NYC, Italian is my second culture having many many Italian friends since childhood. That said, I'm super picky about my Italian having graced places like my very very favorite, Il Bagatto (read my Yelp on this place), Lil Charlie's (RIP), my second favorite, Il Mulino, Trattoria L'incontro in Astoria, Lenny's in Howard Beach, Nello's on the UES and even Rao's which I've had the pleasure of eating at twice.
With Tambellini, this is by far the BEST italian in Pittsburgh. I was impressed with the food. The fresh pasta is a hit the sauces and dressings are like they were straight from Grandma Upstairs (my Italian "grandmother" may her soul rest in peace) kitchen, I haven't eaten meat in 8 years but I might just have relapse over some Tambellini meatballs.
While the decor is a bit old school, I don't mind. I just long for a room full of fun and interesting people, which Pittsburgh is sorely lacking. I miss eating and chatting up my neighbors and then sharing a Grappa or Limoncello with them. Maybe its because I have a huge personality with an AWESOME beard but the people in PGH are boring, although I did see a young dude in there with a 5 panel cap and a hip brand crew neck on. We need more of that swag in the Burgh.
The chef is a great guy, he and his wife make sure to greet each customer and chat them up. I like that, but sometimes it feels forced and I really wish I knew them more because they seem like really nice people but when they start with the small talk it pains me because we can't really delve into any conversation of substance. Maybe one day but until then, let's table the convo and let me get at the food!!
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