Italy. The land of brilliant architects, painters and musicians. And, many would argue, chefs should be added to the list.

For, without doubt, Italians have raised cooking to an art form.

They are the world's greatest pasta masters.

Already Bermudians enjoy the delights of Hamilton's well established Pasta Basta in Elliott Street.

Now they can savour even more of the wonder of Italy's rich and famous cuisine -- thanks to Pasta Pasta.

The swish new St. George restaurant off York Street threw open its doors to a curious public on November 9.

And curiosity soon turned to delight as the word spread about Pasta Pasta.

Was this the restaurant so good the owners named it twice? In fact, it is the sister of Pasta Basta.

It is also the Old Town's second Italian restaurant, although it boasts a distinctive feel of its own.

"We wanted to keep the name as close as possible to Pasta Basta so customers could understand the association.

"But we also wanted to give it an identity of its own,'' explains Miss Christa DeSilva, the restaurant's 28-year-old hostess.

Pasta Pasta is owned by Italian Mr. Fosco Nannini and his wife Sharon, who also run Somerset's Il Palio restaurant and Pasta Basta.

With such experience behind him, Mr. Nannini has a sense for customers' needs.

And there is little doubt Pasta Pasta has already acquired its own identity.

From the outside it bears more than a passing resemblance to its popular Hamilton sister.

The striking green and pink, and the lettering -- carefully chosen by Mrs.

Nannini -- immediately suggest a link.

But, once inside, the difference is clear. And impressive.

Pasta Pasta is much roomier than its relative, with seating downstairs and upstairs.

"We also make sure the restaurants never have the same menu on the same day,'' says Miss DeSilva.

Testimony to the success of the fledgling restaurant are the scores of people who flock to it daily.

Bermudians just don't seem to get enough of Italian cuisine! They are attracted by two things more than anything else -- high quality food and service.

Both of these are in abundant supply at Pasta Pasta, and come at very affordable prices.

"We are fast and efficient,'' proudly stresses chef Mr. Naveen Chitravanshi, who hails from India.

Busiest times for the hard-working staff are between 12 noon and 2 p.m., and the evening.

The restaurant is open 12 noon-10.30 p.m., Monday to Saturday. And 5 p.m.- 10.30 p.m.on Sunday.

Perhaps surprisingly, winter does not slow down custom. Quite the opposite.

"We are jamming in the summer, and rocking in the winter,'' exclaims head chef Herr. Uwe Lipfert, who learned his skills in Germany.

"People just love the healthy pasta food.'' Most of those who sample the food are repeat customers. Once bitten, twice bold, it seems! It demonstrates the power of a good reputation, earned by the best way possible -- word of mouth.

Says Mr. Lipfert: "We notice people come in here really shy. They try the pasta and think it's great.'' "Then they are back and bring their friends with them. We have a bunch of regular customers.

"That is what we rely on. We rely very much on locals.'' The ever attentive staff cater to all tastes, and delight in creating an informal atmosphere.

It makes it the perfect restaurant to bring the family.

And soft music is provided just to complete the experience for diners.

One of their advertising leaflets trills: "Come as you are and enjoy the informal and friendly atmosphere of our cosy restaurant.

"Bring the whole family, Children's sized portions available.'' People can phone in their orders on 297-2927. Or they can use the fax machine (number: 297-2928).

Although convinced their service is second to none, the staff are not afraid of criticism. Far from it.

Customers are urged to fill in forms, giving their impressions of the restaurant.

They are asked to give Pasta Pasta a 1-9 rating -- 9 standing for excellent.

And how do most people rate Pasta Pasta? "Everybody seems to have nothing but good things to say about us,'' declares Miss DeSilva.

"Most people comment on how clean the place is and friendly the atmosphere.

They seem to really enjoy the food.

"I can't think of one criticism, I honestly can't!'' THE OWNERS -- Mr. Fosco Nannini and his wife Sharon.

A WARM WELCOME -- Miss Christa DeSilva is the restaurant's 28-year-old hostess.