Roberto Cafe

I've been a regular at Roberto Cafe since they opened and it is easily one of my favorite places in the neighborhood. The food reminds me of the ""real"" Italian food I've had in visiting Italy: simple flavors, clean tastes, and all about the execution. An easy standout on the menu is the Vitello Milanese, always perfectly cooked and easily the best I've had anywhere. When they have it, the stuffed or grilled calamari appetizer is exceptional as well, along with most of their seafood dishes. My only complaint is that the specials don't seem to change very frequently, perhaps only seasonally. Still, I always find this to be a great place to take friends and family visiting from out of town as there is something for everyone on the menu, the price is right and the service always terrific. Pros: food, service, charm Cons: small size, specials don't change too frequently more

Looking for authentic, delicious Italian food? Check out Roberto's. Try the lobster ravioli special, you won't be disappointed. Everything is good, along with the gentle personality of the owners, the pricing and menu is smart. BYOB is a great buy especially in this economy. Once you experience Roberto's (especially if you live nearby) you will continue to be a loyal customer. Pros: Food and service. Cons: Minimal on street parking. more

My girlfriend and I went to Robertos on Valentines day and it far exceeded our expectations. This was our first visit to Robertos although we have been to many other BYOBs in Center City.\r \r While we were at first surprised by the small space (you cant help but get into a conversation with your neighbors!), we adjusted and found it to be quaint. Have to say though, this is not the best place for personal conversations or shy people, as your conversations will likely be overheard by others!\r \r While it was nice to be waited on by one of the owners, that didnt prevent our meal from taking 55 minutes to arrive. However, after the long wait, we were extremely pleased with both meals! By far this was the best meal we have had at an Italian BYOB in Philadelphia!\r \r While this was our first time, we would definitely go back, particularly on a non-holiday when the kitchen is not so busy. We highly recommend Robertos Cafe!\r Pros: Meals were great! Cons: Kitchen got a bit backed up, but it was Valentines day on a Saturday. more

Great food and great atmosphere - although very cold when sitting near the door in the winter! Love the risotto dish...Always very friendly service. more

I have been walking by this cafe to and fro for the last year. I do not know why it has taken me so long to finally drop in and have dinner...it was truly excellent! I come from an italian family and when I say Roberto & staff know how to make great Italian cuisine, they KNOW how to make great Italian cuisine. Delicioso! They have a solid - and quite affordable - menu with an array of choices to satisfy you...We ordered a special Bruscette for the appetizer (although they provide you with one complimentary as well) and then two entrees: the lobster ravioli in pesto/walnut sauce special and grilled jumpo shrimp w/yummy zucchini, etc.. Both were prepared to perfection and exactly the right flavor...Mmmm mmmm. One of the standouts of this restaurant is the service - they are extra-attentive without being annoying. The owner waits on you himself at times and is so friendly and welcoming, you can't wait to come back. The space also has a fresh feeling to it (we sat inside, though they have an outside garden too) and were quite comfortable. The only one criticism I had from our meal, was the tiramisu dessert we ordered. It didn't seem fresh...not sure what happened there, but I have a feeling it was the exception not the norm. All in all, a delicious family kitchen - definitely go and visit Roberto's!!! Pros: Authentic, tasty italian dishes; under the radar location; great service, they take credit cards! Cons: dessert could be improved more

The food at Robertos is nothing special at all. While I ordered fusilli with crab, the dish was actually made with supermarket-type rotelle and was lacking in any zest. Similarly, the branzino special was bland too. The service was good - which was to be expected since we were the only two people in the entire restaurant on a Friday night! I think that tells you all you need to know Pros: inexpensive Cons: bland, boring food more

This is by far the most authentic Italian food I had in Philadelphia in a long time. You think you are dining in Italy. The service is absolutely wonderful and the prices are even better. Cons: Parking can be difficult - the old Graduate lot should be open soon more

went there for lunch, great food, great service. great prices.\r Looking forward to eating there again, more