<table border="0" align="right" width="310"><tr><td><img src="http://www.louisvillehotbytes.com/amerigo07.jpg" border="1" align="right"></td></tr></table>Amerigo discovers Louisville
(<b>Amerigo Italian Restaurant, <i>Voice-Tribune</i>, Aug. 9, 2007</b>)
Amerigo Vespucci, a minor mapmaker of fifteenth century Italy, may have visited the New World briefly a decade or so after Christopher Columbus set foot ashore in 1492.
Yet, thanks to another mapmaker who named the new continents after his cartographic colleague, the Americas are forever known by Vespucci's slightly altered first name; while Columbus's moniker attaches only to such relatively little-known patriotic hymns as "Hail Columbia" and, well, the capital of Ohio.
Now Amerigo gains a 21st century connection on the sign over the door of a six-unit, Nashville-based Italian-style restaurant chain that recently opened its first Louisville property. Housed in the building that was formerly home to Harper's, <B>Amerigo Italian Restaurant</B> has built a substantial word-of-mouth buzz since its opening last month.
We've found a lot to like on early visits: The renovated building retains a casual, upscale feel, with exposed brick and stone and warm, polished wood, a stylish bar up front and white-draped tables in comfortable dining rooms.
Black-clad servers wear Parmesan graters on their belts, an offbeat touch; they're competent and friendly, but can get a little pushy about encouraging you to upgrade your meal with drinks, appetizers and side dishes.
The bill of fare blends American and continental flavors with a distinct Italian accent, and the presence of Chef Anthony Lorie in the kitchen is a distinct plus.
Full report on LouisvilleHotBytes.
Visit The Voice-Tribune Website.
<B>Amerigo Italian Restaurant</B>
871 S. Hurstbourne Parkway
(502) 426-4040
www.amerigo.net/loc-louisville.php