What a pity because the food was so beautiful and tasty but the service of one staff ruined our experience. I have never felt so offended in a restaurant so I wanted to break it down. Genuinely one of the best meals I have had in Paris in one of the most beautiful settings. But the service needs to improve.
We were seated by a male waiter. We had no reservation and walked in asking whether it would be possible to sit us for lunch at 12:30. The male waiter said yes. Shortly after being seated we placed our order and this is where the issue arose. He was not pleased that we only ordered 2 dishes (the burrata dish and a pasta dish). He immediately told us it’s too little to share and we explained we weren’t very hungry but really looking forward to tasting the dishes as we heard so much about this place. He then proceeds to tell us that he wants to move us to the bar because we aren’t ordering enough food and he has been turning other people away from their door. We were very shocked at this attitude and we asked how long do we then have for the table if we didn’t want to eat at the bar? Plus we were seated and we were never told this was a condition of being seated at the tables. He said oh we should have 1 hour so we said that should be fine by us.
After this interaction he no longer came to our table for the rest of the service time. Our burrata arrived shortly and it was delicious. The lady waiter serving was absolutely pleasant. Then we noticed after waiting 40 minutes for our “not enough order” 1 dish pasta that the two tables next to us got their orders of the same dishes very quickly. We inquired with the female staff if there is a long wait for the pasta and she was super lovely and checked up for us. Within few minutes the pasta arrived and again it was absolutely delicious.
Surprisingly both the dishes were the perfect portion for us since my friend and I know our stomach size more than the male waiter.
We paid our bill with the lady waiter and she was super lovely and we left shortly after 2 pm. When leaving there were still 2 tables empty so I hope the male waiter didn’t have to turn away too...
Read moreThe manager did not treat me respectfully - and when I tried to share why I was disappointed and felt hurt but the experience he simply mansplained, talked over me, and looked down at the ground when I talked to him. I was asked to move my seat twice - a seat I had not chosen but was chosen for me by the maitre de - so that a couple who just arrived could have the middle two seats at the bar and didn't have to sit at the end. If you are wanting to eat here as just one person know that you are not going to get the same treatment or respect as a couple. When I explained to the manager that his joke that I could share one of the €55-70 sharing plates with him wasn't funny and was a combination of sketchy and upsetting as it just reinforced that half of their menu wasn't available to me as a single diner- he not only didn't apologize or acknowledge that I was saying it made me feel bad - he only tried to tell me that it was indeed a funny joke and that I needed to lighten up.
I had come at 6:15p to see the menu and it wasn't up - and I saw people inside (it apparently was the staff having family dinner) I cautiously opened the unlocked door and asked if it was possible to see the menu. They said it wasn't ready yet and I should come after 7 when they open. I mention this because the manager when I was trying to explain that i was disappointed in how i was treated told me that he remembered me from earlier and how rude i had been to have not said hello (the fact that neither he nor his staff said hello when i walked in through an unlocked door was not rude in his opinion) and he lectured me on how when traveling to a foreign country one must say hello. Next time i want my food with a side of mansplaining I'll be sure to...
Read moreA Perfect Valentine’s Dinner at Carboni’s – A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Paris
This Valentine’s Day, we had the pleasure of dining at Carboni’s, tucked away on 45 rue de Poitou, 75003 Paris. From the moment we walked in, the warm ambiance and attentive staff set the stage for a truly memorable evening.
We began our night with a perfectly balanced Negroni, a masterful blend of bitterness and sweetness. Following this, a crisp white wine was expertly chosen to complement our meal, its bright notes pairing beautifully with the flavors to come.
For starters, we indulged in a roast artichoke, its smoky tenderness enhanced by delicate seasoning, and a plate of clams bathed in the most unctuous, decadent sauce—a dish so divine that we found ourselves savoring every last drop with the fresh bread served alongside.
The main courses elevated the evening further. The fish was impeccably cooked, flaking apart with a delicate touch, while the tomato-based pasta dish was nothing short of outstanding—each bite bursting with rich, deep flavors, a true testament to the chef’s mastery of Italian cuisine.
Beyond the exquisite food, the service was truly exceptional. The staff was warm, welcoming, and radiated genuine hospitality, ensuring that every moment of our dining experience felt special.
Carboni’s is a true hidden gem, effortlessly combining the charm of a Parisian bistro with the soul of an Italian trattoria. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening, a special celebration, or simply a remarkable meal, this is a place that delivers on all fronts. We will certainly be returning—next time, with even bigger appetites!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 – A...
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