Amerigo - Memphis

A small chain of Italian eateries can be a dangerous thing - as in, dangerously dull. But that's not the case with Amerigo, which has one outlet in Memphis (there are two in Nashville / Brentwood, and another in Jackson, MS). White tablecloths are covered with butcher's paper, and the ambiance is old world but not stuffy. The food is fresh, simple, and generous - almost any pasta dish ordered is destined to be lunch the next day. The menu is huge, including traditional Italian favorites as well as a deep list of creative entrees featuring steak, chicken, and seafood. Our favorite indulgence are the cheese fritters - a heady combo of blended cheeses that are lightly breaded and flash-fried...in a word, divine. Two sauces for dipping are part of the fritter plate - do yourself a favor and just order the large plate. (These were featured in Bon Apetit, so you know they're fab).