Portocervo

Porto Cervo, a characteristically warm and inviting Italian restaurant in the centre of Zhujiang New Town CBD area, is the definition of cozy. The vibe is peak Tianhe Distict in the best way: rustic wood everything with exposed brick walls and a long tile bar, warm candlelight, wraparound windows that overlook the tree-lined street from one side and perfect dating piazza on the other. In warmer months, two endearingly rickety patio tables frame the entrance on Guangzhou Dadao. It's welcoming, casual, romantic, and unpretentious. The best part, though, is the expansive backyard space, which is open on warm evenings. This is elegant comfort food at its best. Even if you don't order it for your main dish, be sure to get a plate of the sweet potato and light snacks for the table, which comes in a parmesan broth. You won't find huge pizzas like this anywhere else in the city. The house-made pastas, prepared with a creative mix of vegetables, are a must: garganelli with a blend of tomatoes, peppers, squash, and cheese, say, or classic “Pasta alla carbonara’ with the mind-blowing delicious cream souce. The huge New York Pizza with “Salsiccia salata”, special Italian cheeses and the salads are hearty and satisfying—greens like escarole and arugula are paired with crunchy nuts, herbaceous vinaigrettes, and generous shavings of cheese. Porto Servo’s service isn't the most polished in the world, but it makes up for it with the homey, neighborhood atmosphere. The staff is cool and friendly without lingering too long. They're serious about their food, thoughtful about their wine, and ready to recommend a cocktail or side dish. Bring someone who you're trying to impress without tipping them off to the fact that you're trying to impress them. Come with friends for an outdoor weekend brunch when the weather is agreeable, or a cozy, warming wintertime dinner. It's the lovely spot to catch up with old friends over a few plates of pasta and a slightly splurge-y bottle of wine.