We decided to have a late lunch and called to make sure we could get a table. The Italian lady on the phone was cold and matter-of-fact, stating we wouldn’t need a reservation. We came by about an hour later and were greeted in the same cold way (probably the same woman). We got a nice table and reviewed the menu. A young Italian waiter in jeans and a casual shirt (he looked very ungroomed) gave us menus and brought water and bread (which isn’t complimentary). After reviewing the menu, which is fairly extensive, we decided to order. The same male waiter started laughing when we ordered. When we asked why he just said “nothing”. It made us feel very uncomfortable and uneasy. This was a first experience. The food took fairly long to arrive. We received an amuse bouche which was nothing special - bell pepper pieces with pesto (we guess, as the waiter didn’t say). The minestrone soup exceeded our expectations - it was rich and stuffed with vegetables. The beef tartare was not good. The meat had a pungent smell and tasted sour. We strongly advise not to order it. As main courses we tried the raviolacci di ossobuco and the spaghettoni tartufo with anchovies. We were nervous about the truffles and anchovies combination, thinking the anchovies would overpower the truffles - and we were right. The dish tasted salty anchovies and the truffle flavor was hard to find. The raviolacci was good. As dessert we tried the tiramisu and it was bland and very basic. Gallo Nero displays Michelin plaques by the entrance. We find it very hard to believe that this restaurant would be given a single Michelin star. Having dined at Quadri in Venice, or Ivigneri in Hamburg, we would say that our experience was very far from a first class dining experience. From the arrogant staff on the phone and in person, to the presentation of the food, and the odd flavors, this restaurant is nowhere near a prime dining experience. The only reason we rated Gallo Nero three stars instead of two was thanks to the friendly waiter who came at the end of our meal… a Spaniard, from the canary islands… he was friendly, happy, and witty. Maybe Gallo Nero should consider employing people with his character and mindset instead. We will not come back to Gallo Nero. Ambience: 5/5 (the restaurant has a nice interior, and very nice bathrooms) Staff: 1/5 (except the Canary Island gentleman, 5/5) Food: 2/5 Price: 2/5 (the dishes can be overpriced, like the truffles/anchovies spaghettoni, or the...
Read moreAuthentic Italian Fine Dining in Hamburg – A Must-Visit for Travelers!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Gallo Nero in Hamburg delivers an authentic Italian fine dining experience that’s hard to find outside of Italy. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported into a charming, rustic atmosphere that perfectly blends sophistication and comfort. The intimate setting, combined with impeccable service, sets the tone for an unforgettable meal.
The food is nothing short of extraordinary. I had the ( exotic ) T-bone steak, which was not just a meal but an experience. Perfectly cooked, the steak melted in my mouth, and the flavors were rich and authentic, reminding me of the best Italian kitchens. The care and attention to detail in every dish are evident – it’s clear that Gallo Nero prides itself on using top-quality ingredients to craft their meals.
And let’s talk about the Espresso Martinis – they are to die for! If you’re a fan of well-balanced cocktails, this one will blow you away. Smooth, rich, and with just the right kick, it’s the perfect way to end your evening or kick off a special night out.
The hospitality is just as outstanding as the food. Despite not speaking German, the owner took the time to make me feel like a local, which is a rarity in Germany, as I’ve discovered. That personal touch, along with the exceptional food and drinks, truly made this a five-star experience.
For travelers, especially Americans visiting Hamburg, this is a hidden gem you cannot miss. Whether you’re a foodie looking for authentic Italian cuisine, a steak lover, or just someone who appreciates great hospitality, Gallo Nero is a must-visit.-...
Read moreTo be very honest, extremely disappointing. In the past, service was lovely and really on point, which we thought was amazing for a little quiet place close to home. This time we found ourselves trying to call out which were whose dishes while the waiters screamed out the dish names and waved them around in the air. It doesn't matter if it is 1 or 10 waiters serving, if they are all confused and none of them knows what belongs where in a larger group, it is uncomfortable and disrupting. Also, we were not the kind of table asking for much, no Entrées, most of us stayed with wine, water was ordered for everyone, literally only 4 desserts were ordered - in a nutshell: the level of complexity was very low. We said "no" to a couple of the extras they offered, still got them brought and of course paid for it because it's not a big deal, but this is what I would expect from the taco corner shop, not a proper restaurant. If the above was not clear about little by little any remaining expectations or good impressions were ruined: At the moment of paying I was the one to take the check for everyone in order to avoid splitting the bill, but somebody had already paid a part, so when I requested the bill for what was left this was too much to ask for from the waiter, he had already thrown away the receipt and said "Ich habe das schon weggeschmissen" - It seemed unthinkable to do the obvious: Reprint the receipt and be polite. Needless to say this is unacceptable. Luckily there was a very nice person who then came and simply printed it out and apologized for how this...
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