Editor’s Note: Our columnist is not a trained or paid professional, nor does he get complimentary meals from the restaurants visited. He and his party arrive unannounced and do not reveal that they will be doing a review. Comments or questions may be sent to Sam Geati, greengeezer9@comcast.net.
Biaggi’s Restorante Italiano, Algonquin Commons, 1534 S. Randall Rd., Algonquin, IL 60102. 847-658-5040. To make reservations for a private party, contact Jason Chabiani. Open every day, including lunch hours. (Photo provided)
Recently, I had the pleasure of enjoying a gourmet meal served “family style” at Biaggi’s Restaurant in Algonquin. The Sun Day owners hosted the evening for regular contributors to the newspaper. Previously, I had dined at Biaggi’s, but never in this style. Eighteen of us were served at one long table. Along with our beverages, homemade focaccia bread with olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese was placed on the table.
The servers were excellent. It was fun to watch as they paraded each course to the table, with trays held high, and then almost simultaneously, setting them down in unison.
The first course was two appetizers: Calamari Fritti and Margherita Pizza. Both hit the spot. Calamari can be tricky because overcooking makes the fish chewy, like eating rubber bands. However, this calamari was cooked to perfection and nicely seasoned. The brick oven pizza was thin with a crispy crust. Both appetizers disappeared quickly.
Next came plates of chopped chicken salad consisting of grilled chicken breast strips, bacon, tomato, avocado, gorgonzola cheese, red onions, and topped with a delicious house dressing. At this point, many at the table would have been happy to call it a meal, but you know me; I was in it for the long haul.
Then came the pasta dish: Ravioli Quattro Formaggi. We’re talking fresh, homemade ravioli filled with a blend of ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, and Blue cheeses. The ravioli was topped with a delicate cream sauce combined with fresh basil and pine nut pesto. Underneath the pasta was fresh tomato sauce. Blended together, it provided a unique taste experience. Having grown up in an Italian home and being accustomed to the best Sicilian cooking in the U.S., the bar is raised pretty high when it comes to pasta. This dish was unlike any I had tasted previously and exceeded my expectations. After this course, I’m thinking, that’s it. Bring on the dessert.
Surprise! Here comes the featured entrée: Chicken Piemontese, a grilled chicken breast stuffed with Italian ham, smoked Provolone and Gouda cheeses, topped with a lemon-basil butter sauce. Included on the plate were sautéed asparagus and roasted potatoes, each delicious in their own right. Wow!!
Finally, the dessert! The tiramisu had a delicate Mascarpone flavor and was beautifully presented. You won’t find this dessert any better anywhere.
The uniqueness of the dinner was especially noteworthy because each course was served as if it was ordered individually, but, instead, the food was on large platters. The presentation of each dish was special. My recommendation is to consider Biaggi’s if you are looking for a special place for your next family gathering or if you are organizing a dinner for your club. In addition to the main dining room, they have a private dining room that holds approximately 85 guests.
Biaggi’s gets As in all departments from ambiance to service. Whether it’s an intimate dinner or large gathering, it’s a wonderful experience. If you haven’t been there recently or ever, give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.
