Best of Italian is a Big Surprise

Our first “best of Patch” public selection contest – call it Reader’s Choice if you will – has come to an end. And the results are, to say the least, surprising.

Why? If you thought that the top vote getter in our poll – , which came from second to first place overnight, edging out – would be the likely winner, we’ve got news for you. (See poll below for final results.)

If you noticed that -- which was not included because it was a pizzeria --  did garner several positive comments on the contest, you, too, have a good point.

If you thought that the newest Italian restaurant in town, – which had only a “soft opening” the week before our contest, and thus was not included in the polling – should have been included and deserved to be voted on, we hear you.

In fact, you have a winner: By user nomination, along with its strong positive comments, reviews and ratings, the Best of Novato’s Italian Restaurants is: .

What? How is that possible? Remember we told you several times that the poll wasn’t everything, that user comments, ratings and reviews were important criteria. In all of those categories Muscio’s, despite not being on the poll (and for most of the voting period not even having a listing, ) triumphed over the competition.

“Wow. You really caught me by surprise,” said owner Michael Domer when I called him with the good news. “That’s a nice way to start the day!”

 “I’m touched the way the community has embraced us so quickly,” he added. “And how you’ve been so patient with us through our growing pains!”

Reader , while not entirely forgiving, did “embrace” the newest restaurant in town as a welcome addition to Novato’s dining options.  

“Great dining experience. Family friendly with an elegant yet comfortable décor,” noted Justin L.

“Muscio's was great! Food super, owners friendly, waiter, Ian, terrific!! Wonderful addition to Novato!” enthused Nori E.

“Yummmmmmmm… We were extremely pleased with the presentation, the food, the prices, and the interior!” said Carole B. “ I know this will become a favorite of ours.”

There’s no award for second place, but we should note that by the same set of criteria – comments, ratings and reviews as well as poll results – another restaurant not on the poll had a very strong showing: Ghiringhelli Pizzeria Grill & Bar. It opened only a year ago, but : lots of positive, detailed reviews and high ratings from users. That’s what we like to see – you, the readers and users making your choices and favorites known.