Surely It Deserved More Than Two Stars

After reading the wonderful, glowing review of Trattoria Tre Venezie in Pasadena (“The Real Thing,” by S. Irene Virbila, Jan. 9), I was dismayed at the accompanying rating of only two tiny stars.

Phrases such as “authentically Italian,” “true, clean flavors” and “a dish I could eat again and again” do not come easily for Ms. Virbila, whose palate and knowledge I respect. So why only two stars (“very good”)? It sounds like she had an absolutely fabulous meal, closer to “excellent,” a rating of three stars.

Perhaps an explanation of the nuances between the stars would help your readers, as well as restaurant owners, myself included.

Richard Hankus

Hermosa Beach