Fantasia By Giorgio in Road Town

This little Italian bistro opened in October, 2015 and is located in the heart of Road Town, Tortola, on historic Main Street. The decor is what I would describe as "shabby chic". Re-purposed wood from shipping pallets and bamboo canes adorn the walls. A small sofa made from shipping pallets, provides a nice seating area for those waiting for a table to enjoy an apéritif.

One piece of furniture stands apart from all others ... and that is Giorgio's table. This is a magnificent, 2" thick trestle table that seats 6 to 8 guests. It is actually a 15th century table from an Italian monastery that Giorgio brought to the BVI from Italy, more than 20 years ago. It is truly lovely and holds a place of honour within the restaurant.

Giorgio has been involved with four different restaurants since arriving in the BVI from his home in Milan, but until now, has always been located in Virgin Gorda. I asked him why he suddenly moved to Tortola and his answer was; "a woman" ... love. I can't think of a better reason!

The table settings are charming. Lovely white damask tablecloths with dark blue runners and napkins cover the simple tables made from wooden pallets, and adorned with Giorgio's own personalized white and blue tableware. The very chic white china table mats are made in the shape of a wave and hold a knife and fork on either side, ready to receive Giorgio's offerings.

My friends and I really enjoyed the Portobello mushroom caps as a starter that Chef Stevie Thompson (formerly from Calamaya Restaurant on Virgin Gorda) prepared beautifully. Very tasty indeed!

Lou, (the former owner of the Jolly Roger restaurant) said his green pepper tuna tagliata was perfection on a plate, his girlfriend had the risotto parmigiano with Foie Gras and I had the fresh tagliatelle (pasta) with crab and black tiger shrimp. Everyone enjoyed their meal. The crowning glory was the incredible Tirimisu made with spongecake, Kahlua and Mascarpone cheese. As my father would say, even though we were all sufficiently sophonsified and swore we couldn't eat another bite ... we managed to scarf it down in no time. It was delicious!

The menu changes weekly but there are always some standard items on the menu. Giorgio told me that their best sellers at lunch time are the fish tacos and duck nachos. Definitely not Italian ... but certainly interesting options. For dinner, the hottest item on the menu is their famous Angus beef strip loin in Gorgonzola (Italian blue cheese) sauce. I will certainly try the beef during my next visit. I love beef and can't stay away from blue cheese! Put those two things together and I am in heaven.

When I asked Giorgio what made his restaurant different from all others, he said, "It is everything ... it's in the details", and I have to agree. Right down to the china table numbers and matching salt and pepper shakers, Giorgio's stands apart from the crowd.

They are almost always very busy at lunch hour, as the business crowd heads over to Giorgio's, so it would be wise to make reservations if you want a guaranteed spot. Dinner is a little slower, but it is still a good idea to call ahead. Walk ins are more than welcome provided Giorgio has a table available for you.

Note: Over the years, Giorgio has become well known known for his extensive wine labels.