Renzo’s Cafe & Pizzeria in Boca Raton! It’s been ages since my last visit, so when my friends suggested we hit up “some Italian restaurant we’ve never been to,” Renzo’s was the first thing that popped into my head. I thought, why not? A couple of years later, it’ll feel like a brand-new experience!
We didn’t bother with reservations, seeing as “the season” has passed. We rolled up around 7:15 PM, and for you first-timers, it’s valet-only parking. Free valet, but still valet only. We approached the valet guy, asking which door was the main entrance. He pointed us to the restaurant up front and the piano bar out back. So off we went to the front, only to find an empty room with employees who promptly directed us “to the back.”
Back outside we go, where the valet looked baffled to see us again. We explained, “they sent us back here.” Yep, confusing. Inside the back entrance, we discovered a cozy little spot with a small bar, a few tables, and a piano player tinkling the ivories. We got a table right at the door–not exactly the best seat in the house, but since it wasn’t busy, we didn’t have to dodge traffic all night.
Our server, Bea, swooped in with some mouthwatering homemade plain and garlic rolls and took our drink orders. The menu was a wild ride: pizza, stromboli, pasta, steaks, seafood–you name it. Many items, including all the meats, were market-priced. Entrées averaged $25-$30, and if you wanted a house salad, prepare to fork over an extra $7.
A few $12 Tanqueray and tonics later, our meals arrived. I dove into a veal piccata ($28), while my pals opted for baked ziti ($20) and chicken marsala ($27). Portions were on the smaller side, and soon enough, I glanced around the table and asked, “is anyone else still hungry?”
Cue the unanimous “YES!”
So, what’s the natural response? Dessert, of course.
We savored some orange sorbet and a couple of cannolis before calling it a night.
All in all, the food was decent, and the service was lightning-fast–we got there at 7:15 PM and were out by 8:00 PM, not exactly my thing as I like to take it slow. Bea was a star, making sure everything ran smoothly.
Service can make or break a dining experience, and Bea did not disappoint. Her attentive and friendly demeanor added a personal touch to our evening. Despite the quick service, Bea’s efficiency ensured that we were well taken care of throughout the night.
Renzo’s of Boca offers a slice of nostalgia with its classic Italian dishes and warm atmosphere. The quick service might appeal to those looking for a speedy meal, but for those like me who enjoy lingering over dinner, it’s something to keep in mind.
The confusion with the entrance and the portion sizes were minor hiccups in an otherwise pleasant evening. Renzo’s remains a charming spot for a casual night out, offering a blend of good food, swift service, and a touch of musical ambiance.