L'Angolo Ristorante   

At L'Angolo, a cozy BYOB way south in South Philly, the emphasis is clearly on the kitchen -- it takes up most of the front room. Divided by a brick arch, the small dining room in the back feels a little cramped when you walk in, but once settled, it's comfortably homey. This affordable Italian restaurant serves a refreshingly uncomplicated menu with regional emphasis on the food of Apulia -- all quality offerings. A good Italian restaurant can often be judged by its gnocchi and at L'Angolo it's excellent: Whether ordered in tomato sauce or with shrimp in a cream sauce, it melts in your mouth. Appetizers are generous, such as a bowl full of mussels and piles of calamari. Local residents are clearly familiar with this spot where everything tastes good. And if you're not from the neighborhood, L'Angolo is an affordable place to start your tour of South Philly Italian restaurants.