Borgo Italia Closing, Getting Donato Enoteca Makeover

Borgo Italia, soon to be Desco. [Photo: Borgo Italia]

Less than a year after Borgo Italia opened in Old Oakland, it's closed its doors, but it's not all sad news: owner Paul Ferrari is turning over the keys to Donato Enoteca owner Donato Scotti, who'll be rejiggering it slightly to become Desco. Named for the Latin word for "table," Desco will retain its Italian focus, and Ferrari may still remain involved as a partner, though Scotti will be running the show.

The menu will continue to emphasize pizza, and Scotti will also rearrange the kitchen to increase fresh pasta production. The food will be more seasonal than Borgo's, the wine list will be shaken up, and outdoor seating will be added. The interior will get a slight facelift, and to-go lunches and a happy hour will be added to draw more of a weekday crowd. All this is welcome news to fans of Donato, which is located in Redwood City and is considered one of the best Italian restaurants in the entire Bay Area (it's a regular player in the Michelin Bib Gourmand). Desco plans to open in late July or early August.

· Borgo Italia closes in Old Oakland, will become Desco [Inside Scoop]
· Borgo Italia Opens in Old Oakland [~ ESF ~]