Ragazzi Restobar — Restaurant in Halifax

Im writing this review so I could bring awareness to the operators of why my experience was unsatisfactory, and hopefully they would improve it. False advertising- huge sign on the chalk board wall stating $35 for a whole Fresh lobster. After expressing interest, we were told it was actually $40 and the price has gone up. We asked if they would honor the posted price, they just said no. We asked how big the lobster is and he just gestured a size with his hand, so we asked for the weight and he said he doesn’t know. When asked what goes with the lobster, he said the tail goes with pasta penne rose and the lobster, he wasn’t sure, and later said it doesn’t come with anything. The other server who might have been the owner or the mgr, restated the special, and said the lobster goes with penne as well. Four of us wanted to order the full lobster, but apparently they only had 3. He said he’ll look after us and was going to replace with a tail instead but the math doesn’t work. Why would it be the same price for a tail vs a whole lobster where an add on tail to any entree is only $14. We just added two extra tails, $28. One of us asked if the lobster was truly fresh and he said he cooked it 2-1/2 hrs ago and laughed so we thought he was kidding. Anyway, While waiting for our food, one of us went to the washroom and by the bar, there’s a seafood display of cooked lobster, oysters and other seafood. He took a snapshot of it and thought it was cool. We ordered a dozen “fresh” oysters, some of them were crushed. They also weren’t firm, more like gooey, later on, when we realized a few things, it made sense why it was like that. I’ll explain later. Keep reading. The oysters were not served on ice, we were given 1 lemon wedge, when I ask for more, he game me another tiny slice. No vinegar or cocktail sauce whatsoever. We asked for Tabasco and horseradish. He struggled and shredded fresh radish on the same serving plate causing it to soak since there’s some water on the plate, where the oyster shells seat loosely. The amount was so sparse it was unbelievable. We asked for more and he shredded a tiny bit more. We felt embarrassed to ask for more, even if it was clearly insufficient We ordered 2 risotto, to be split for two people each along with the full lobster, but it wasn’t served at the same time. The seafood risotto was very undercooked that it was unpleasant to chew. The mussels didn’t taste fresh at all, and my friend said the clam wasn’t good either. We stopped eating it. The mushroom risotto was more tolerable but too salty. We didn’t finish either even if we were splitting it. Finally the lobster came, and my friend who took the picture realized the lobster and other seafood on display were no longer there. We were fairly certain that what was on display by the bar for who knows how long were the ones they reheated and served to us. They said they cooked the whole lobster in butter. Although it was greasy, it did not taste like butter. The shell (claw) was so tough that it took a lot of strength with both hands to.crack it and the shell shattered. The meat was rubbery. Although we were so disappointed and was just trying to stomach the food, we asked for melted butter so we can at least make it more palatable. After a long while, they finally served maybe 2 tbsp of melted butter for each of us , just to find out later on the bill that he charged us $5 each!!!

We got tired of criticizing the food since it’s spoiling .the night with good company but I never had such a horrific experience. We wanted to support local but I do not wish this experience to anyone so hopefully they realize all the things that went wrong here.

The only good things we enjoyed was the wine, focaccia bread and maybe the overpriced octopus appetizer. It was 2 pcs of nicely seasoned tiny tentacles so even though flavor was ok, I do not recommend it.

We were overcharged for 4 bottles of sparking water when we only served 2.. But at that time we felt so resigned and want out of there so...

I got out of an exhausting meeting feeling famished, and as I exited the building, I began hearing some beautiful latin music coming from an authentic Italian restaurant across the street. I took it as a sign from the Universe, saying "dine here", and so I did. Needless to say, the Universe was right. As soon as I walked through the door, I was met by a very kind hostess that wasted no time in properly greeting me. She generously offered to take my wet raincoat, then hung it on a hanger. I was impressed by this immediate sense of welcoming and hospitality. The hostess brought me to my table and informed me that my server will be with me shortly.

When I arrived to my table, I got a chance to look at their menu. The prices were fair, and the selection was varied. My server asked if I wished to start with water or drinks, and then informed me of the daily specials (all of which sounded very appealing). I decided on the Alla Tony Placidi cocktail and focaccia appetizer to start. My drink arrived in the blink of an eye, and tasted fantastic. If you like kiwi, you'll like this cocktail. The focaccia bread arrived shortly after, which was also tasty, especially when paired with the complementary bomba oil.

For my entrée, I decided on the Penne Florentina. It arrived within about 15 minutes. I could smell it across the room as the server brought it over. It's delightful aromatics were intoxicating. Whether this phenomenon be a sign of its authenticity or my hunger heightening my senses, I don't know (my guess is both LOL). After laying it on the table, the server asked if I would like some grated fresh parmesan or grinded pepper-- alla true Italian fine-dining. The penne was wonderful, and left me wanting more despite how appetizing it was. Within my first few bites, I could tell this is the best penne I have ever eaten, and very well might be the best I'll ever have. Vibrant cherry tomatoes, ripened to perfection, mingled harmoniously with mushrooms and peas in fragrant Italian pesto, creating a burst of freshness. The accompanying bechamel crema sauce added an elegant twist, elevating this classic dish to new heights. As I ate, I took the opportunity to more closely browse the environment at Ragazzi. The decor gives an air of sophistication, blending modern design elements with subtle Italian touches, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and welcoming. Soft lighting casts a warm glow on the immaculately set tables, where diners anticipate the culinary marvels that lie ahead. To conclude this extraordinary culinary experience, I indulged in the Tiramisu. Ragazzi Restobar's rendition of this Italian classic was a revelation. Layer upon layer of espresso-soaked vanilla cake, cream, and a delicate dusting of cocoa created a symphony of flavors that left me giddy. It was the perfect finale to an unforgettable meal.

The impeccable service at Ragazzi Restobar deserves special mention. The staff, attentive and knowledgeable, guided me through the menu with passion and expertise. From their expert professionalism to their genuine enthusiasm for the culinary offerings, their dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience was evident at every moment.

When it was time to go, I made my way to the front door, which was held open for me as I exited. I left Ragazzi Restobar with a sense of fulfillment, and a sense of utter satisfaction. The extraordinary culinary experience had left a mark on my taste buds and my memories. I felt a deep appreciation for the culinary artistry and the attention to detail that went into each dish I had.

In conclusion, Ragazzi Restobar is a Halifax gem that exemplifies Italian dining at its best. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a world of refined elegance. For those seeking an authentic taste of Italy's culinary treasures, Ragazzi is an absolute must-visit...

To say Ragazzi was a disappointment is an understatement. My partner and I visited Ragazzi to celebrate an anniversary — we were extremely excited because of the reviews online and the photos of the food and atmosphere. When we arrived, we were greeted by a host who had obviously sat us at the wrong table; to explain further, she kept asking us if we wanted to move to another table (the table she was pointing at was crowded and tiny). Once our server had arrived, we ordered drinks and began to look at the menu. Before we could properly look ANOTHER server had come to our table and introduced himself. Over the course of the night, approximately 4 different people were either taking our order or performing duties which our server should have. We are still not certain who our server was. To get a glass of water, we waited 15 minutes. For our cocktails, we waited another 15 on top of that. Let that sink in. 30 minutes for a drink. The only thing that was keeping me there was the hope that the food and drinks would be as good as the music and atmosphere. Spoiler alert - it was not. After the meal, I asked to speak to the manager because I was not happy with the service or the food and beverage. I also saw the tables next to me do the same thing. I started talking to the other tables and they were all celebrating as well, and were receiving the same horrific service. To be honest, the only good part of the dinner was the conversation I had struck with the other diners. Now, I am saying this as a server of 4 years. I have experience in the field, and I would like to think I am pretty good at my job. Normally, the bare minimum is to keep classes filled and the night smooth. Neither were accomplished by our server(s). It got to the point that I wanted to stand up and fill the water of the other tables because they had not been spoken to for 30+ minutes. When we left I literally gave the table next to us our water jug (unused) because they were seated for so long without any attention. When we asked for the bill (which the manager said he would take care of some things), the bill had zero modifications. I told the server to please check this with the manager. She returned and gave us A DIFFERENT tables bill, but I was so frustrated that I paid the bill and left.

Now for the food. It was average. The bruschetta was fine, however I had to construct it at the table myself (think charcuterie in a bruschetta form). This would have been completely fine, if I was expecting to have to do this. However, at the price point I should not have to do that. We ordered two pastas. The gnocchi and the penne alla (pesto crème sauce). When it got to the table, the gnocchi had the wrong sauce and we sent it back. The other pasta was left to get cold at the table (I wanted to wait for my partners meal before dining).

As a server, I take pride in the fact that the food served at my restaurant is good and the service is fantastic. When there are mistakes, I remedy them to the best of my ability, but this was not done. The reason I tip people 22%+ is because of the fact that I recognize all of the little things done to make a night spectacular, however, I cannot do this in good conscience when every single little detail was ignored.

Anyways, we are deeply disappointed. At least it makes...