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Little Italy here in Hartlepool
 | Joe Rigatoni's in Hartlepool have now re-opened after extensive refurbishment. Our latest visit was on Monday 5th December and they have done a wonderful job of renovations. Please remember though that during December there is no Happy Hour. Book as well because the place was a lot busier than we expected for a Monday night.
I have visited Joe Rigatoni's in Church Street, Hartlepool on more occasions than I can remember. Its a little embarrasing but nice when you are shown to your table for Narina, the genuine Italian head waitress, to ask if I want my usual Chardonnay. Parking is in ambundance at the rear of Joe Rigatoni's and relatively safe as anything these days. Yes they do have a "Happy Hour" between 5pm and 6.45pm I think but you had better reserve a table because generally it is quite popular.
The menu is varied and will suit all tastes including "the veggies".
Lorna and I usual start with the aforementioned bottle of chardonnay which at under £12 a bottle is about average for the area. It comes chilled often with an ice bucket and a drink whilst you browse the menu - well I think is civilised.
On the last occasion we were there we started with potatoe skins and garlic which we shared. Sometimes we miss the starter and go for the main course, the choice really is yours. I enjoy chicken and quite often choose one of the many chicken offerings with delicious sauces. Lorna's favourite is aribeatta (check spelling)).
On the odd occasions we make desert, as I find the found at Joe Rig's very filling, we have opted for the most excellent cheese board. Again we share this not because we are watching the pennies but because it is just too much for one person (in our humble opinions). No meal is complete without a coffee and liquer and both are reasonably priced.
The hinterlands at Joe Rigotoni's (the toilets and washroom) are kept clean and regularly inspected. If you find anything wanting just tell the waiter.
One final point on this good value for money place. They serve food on pipping hot plates. There is nothing more off putting and to be honest stupid to serve hot food on cold plates.
So the next time you fancy an Italian and I don't mean Robert De Niro, well pop along to Joe Rigatoni's in Church Street, Hartlepool.
You will not be disappointed and if you are "vell ve want to know about it..ok"
Until we eat again...bon appetite.
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Marco Polo
 | We visited another excellent Italian restaurant on 19th May as a celebration following Hartlepool United reaching the play off finals in Cardiff on 29th May.
Nice bottle of Chardonnay at £12.95.
Starter potatoe skins for me with garlic dip and Lorna had a nice salad.
Main course I opted for the salmon and Lorna one of the many delicious chicken dishes.
These were both from the Happy Hour menu at just £6.95 for starter and main course.
Nice atmosphere and attention to detail.
The owner even visited our table to ask if everything was alright. Attention to detail.
We will visit again. |
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