"Save Your Love" may well be one of the worst songs ever recorded, but infamy is better than no fame at all, or so they say. But if you can't even reach infamy, or David Hasselhoff's "so bad it's good status", you can always sing in your son's restaurant.
And that's exactly what Renato Pagliari did until his recent death, nearly a year ago last July. And if knowing the restaurant is owned by the son of half of one of the worst British music duos isn't enough to send you down to Renato's, let me give you a few more reasons.
One, the food is delicious. It's not mind-boggling, but it is very tasty, very traditional Italian fare. They have their constant classics, such as Tagliatelle al Salmone, and the Lady and the Tramp favourite, Spaghetti witha Meataballsa. However, they change their specials daily, and you can get a real treat if the chef is feeling generous.
I've given Renato's three stars for a few reasons. First of all, the chap who runs the place is quite cheeky. I actually had my bum pinched by him once, and when I told him off, he just smiled and started singing as he walked away. He's a harmless old coot, but he is a coot, so ladies, keep your partners behind you.
Secondly, it's a very small restaurant, and seating can be quite difficult. Often, even when you book, they still seat whomever walks in off the street, so you have to wait up to ten minutes for your table. The restaurant is small enough to make a private conversation slightly awkward for the table next to you.
But all that said, this charming Italian restaurant, tucked down a side street off of Tamworth's town centre, is worth the price, the wait and the bum-pinching. It's an adorable little place, full of quirky charm, expensive Sangiovese and excellent food.
If you've got a big appetite, get a starter, as the mains are full of flavour, but not full. read more
