San Marco's in Chorley has more cheese in the decor than it does on its pizzas and so it is quickly established that yes, this is an Italian restaurant - sorry 'ristorante'.
Somehow though, it's easy to forgive because here they serve food that gives pleasure. Sure, it's all a little messy and I wish the chef would make desserts on the premises and/or make use of the local ice cream superheroes - Fredericks (www.fredericksicecream.co.uk) but still, the simplicity of the dishes are pleasantly satisfying and the staff are always friendly.
The pizza bases alone are worth scoffing down. It may never win awards but mixed in with the charm and honesty is the feeling that there is certainly potential.
12 Cheapside, Chorley, PR7 2EX - 012572 61917.
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We recently noticed the change of name (and presumably ownership) and decided to try it out on our anniversary. After a couple of mediocre starters we settled down to the main course, a couple of filet steaks with delicious sounding sauces. Nothing could be further from the truth.
During preparation the steaks seemed to have caught fire, been put out, and then smothered with sauce to try and hide the damage. When I complained that the steaks were burned the answer back from the chef was that the steaks were grilled. The chef didn't come and face the accuser, instead sending the waitress with his lame escape attempt. Obviously the lumps of charcoal that we cut from our steaks falls under his categorisation of medium rare; unfortunately, not mine.
It's not the fact that a mistake was made and the steaks were burned that disappoints me, but the fact the chef tried to hide the damage. Then when he was caught out he felt the need to hide behind a young waitress with continuing dishonest excuses.
Not worth the effort of a visit.