Scarlatto

Visit here every time we go to the dark side and visit the big city. I am a North End of Boston guy, and can tell you all the great eats there. I find myself in strange company actually saying something nice about anything New York. But I have to admit, I have tried to duplicate their Bolognese recipe and have finally nailed it. They made me think differently about how a true Bolognese is made. Their's is awesome. Also, best ever Veal Osso Buco to date. You will want to lick the center of the bone. I was until people looked at me strangely. It was absolutely that great.

I was really looking forward to my pre-theatre lunch at Scarlatto today. I remembered the food to be delicious and the atmosphere to be warm and inviting. Although my last visit to this restaurant was in 2007, I didn't expect it to have changed that much. My party was the third table to be seated after they opened, We sat down at our table which had no silverware and watched while the waitstaff felt it was more important to set the empty tables before making sure we had water, bread and, silverware. I found it curious that we had to ask for the pre-theatre and brunch menus - the waiter finally (and reluctantly) pulled them out of his pocket after the second time we asked. Our food came, and we were happy, everyone enjoyed what they ordered - but the waiter ignored us the rest of the time, having to call the waiter over to ask for more water. Here's where it all fell apart,. Once the place started to fill up, they started rushing us. I usually tip 25% or at least 20%, but the attitude and lack of attentiveness left me cold. So I left a cash tip of 15% on the table. When the waiter realized that there was no tip on the credit card receipt, he came back to the table, pointed at the cash and said "is that it?!" - Honestly, I left there feeling ripped off. The food was good, but when you factor in the rudeness of the staff - it was less than worth it, and I will never return, nor will I ever recommend this restaurant to anyone. The owner of this restaurant should seriously consider firing its manager and service staff. I'm embarassed that this place is still in business with so many other fine restaurants in the area that understand the value of good quality service. Scarlatto should be ashamed of itself.

I had dinner early Wednesday night, was seated at a bad table, changed tables immediately. The meal was fine until the dessert, I ordered the chocolate souffle with coffee. The coffee was not drinkable and the souffle was not cooked. The waiter was very rude and stated the souffle was cooked, I have dined here before and it was great. After waiting 30 minutes for a dessert that had to be returned, and a waiter with an attitude it will be a very long time before I return or recommend this restaurant.

Have enjoyed several meals here in main dining room, however... Last night, I was seated upstairs, in the overflow dining room. There is a dial up modem (they still exist?) continuously dialing and connecting (you remember that horrible screeching sound?) coming through a speaker that we were subjected to listen to throughout our meal. In spite of complaints from several tables, we were told there was nothing that could be done. Which is just plain lazy. And inexcusable. It was distracting, annoying, and low rent. This would be bad form in a diner. In a restaurant like Scarlatto, it's a deal breaker. Incidentally, after the meal, I spoke to the manager, who wasn't remotely gracious about the situation. Booo!!

Usually dine in Soho, Meatpacking or Tribeca prior to seeing a show, eating at 5:30 in nearly empty restaurants to allow enough time for travel uptown. And usually avoid theater district which ranges from good to subpar, but with the frigid winter we're having wanted to walk to theater, so we took a chance on Scarlatto based on Zagat reviews. Just prior, I read many menupages reviews disparaging service, so I was apprehensive. We were warmly greeted and offered immediate seating, even though our dining companions had yet to arrive, but we waited for them anyway. Once seated, our water glasses were filled, but it did take approx 5-10 minutes for our waiter to greet us. After taking our drink order, we received our cocktails within 5 minutes and ordered. After that, the service was FINE. Our meal was leisurely, and I would describe the service as relaxed, yet efficient. Drink finished, waiter appears out of nowhere to refresh. Food outstanding. Had the antipasti misto, a large board filled with assorted salume (enough for entire table) and a delicious albeit skimpy portion of cheeses. The pumpkin ravioli is terrific, and we even had time for dessert, making our 7:30 curtain with time to spare. The check was reasonable, and I will be back.

Everyone enjoyed their meal (pumpkin ravioli was one of the best dishes I've ever had). Fantastic bartender as well - she made perfect martinis! Great service. I will definitely return.

We came here before going to a matinee. It was our first visit and we were very happy with our selection. Food was delicious. Server was very pleasant. A good lunch was had by all.