Like me, many of you were probably wondering what was happening down on the Waterfront at the location vacated by CafeSito. Curiosity got the better of me, so I went to find out.
Fagioli, the newest Italian restaurant on St. Thomas, is owned by Chef Patricio Segredo. The first thing I asked Patricio was what the name meant.
In Italian fagioli means "bean." But it also has a colloquial meaning of "make it good." And good he has made it.
Trained by his Italian mother and grandmother, Patricio's recipes have the subtle flavorings of his Chilean homeland.
All of his pastas are homemade, just like his mother taught him. His favorite is Lasagna alla Vegetariana, a spinach lasagne with roasted eggplant, zucchini, mushrooms, yellow squash, broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes and cheese.
His favorite seafood selection? The Pesce del Giorno (Fish of the Day). You see, Sagredo only serves fresh fish. To ensure the freshness of his fish dishes, he prepares them only as daily specials.
His personal choice is Chilean Sea Bass with Crab Meat in a Tomato Ragu, served with pureed carrots and sauteed spinach.
According to Patricio, all portions for dinner are large.
"After working eight to nine hours, people want a big meal," he said.
However his lunch portions are smaller because people are generally in a bit of a hurry to get back to work.
All of his offerings can be complemented with a selection from his medium- priced wine list. He carries wines from France, Italy, Chile, Australia and California. Among his champagnes he lists Dom Perignon.
Fagioli's warm, Mediterranean ambiance is evident from the first step into this charming restaurant. The view of our own harbor only enhances the fantasy.
Fagioli is open Monday to Saturday for lunch, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and dinner, 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Live musical entertainment is on hand during dinner hours on Friday and Saturday.
Lunch prices range from $7 – $14, and dinner from $12 – $20.
For reservations for four or more, call 777-8116.