Biagio's Bistro

Owner-chef Biagio Lamassa learned his craft on cruise ships and spent nine years with Jeff Ruby before opening this intimate Italian gem in 1999. His signature red Vespa parked out front has become as much a Ludlow Avenue landmark as the bistro itself. The open kitchen lets you watch Biagio personally prepare each dish on just five burners—everything from scratch including the pasta and all desserts. The menu leans creamy and garlicky rather than heavy tomato, with standouts like penne boscaiola, seafood alfredo, and chicken scaloppini. The dessert case tempts with house-made tiramisu and cannoli. A quarter-century later, it's still the go-to date spot for UC students and Clifton residents.