Al Vecchio Mulino — Restaurant in Alghero

This restaurant enjoys overall very strong ratings on Google, which is why we were initially eager to try it. We were aware that walking in without a reservation might involve a wait. However, what we experienced far exceeded reasonable expectations: we stood at the entrance for approximately an hour before being seated.

Unfortunately, the inefficiency we observed at the door extended throughout the evening. The staff handling seating and service appeared anything but expeditious. Once we were finally led to our table, it took another 5–10 minutes before anyone came to clear the remains from the previous guests. Following that, about 15 minutes passed before drinks were served. Receiving the menus was further delayed by another 5–10 minutes.

Once our orders were placed, the food itself arrived within 10–15 minutes. While this may sound like a positive, it also shed light on the quality of the dishes: the speed strongly suggested that much of the food was pre-cooked. Indeed, both dishes we ordered—Spaghetti Vongole and Spaghetti with fresh tuna—were deeply underwhelming. The pasta was not fresh, the flavors flat, and the overall impression disappointing, especially considering Sardinia’s reputation for fresh, flavorful cuisine. What should have been authentic and memorable was instead mediocre at best.

The most frustrating part of the evening came after the meal. It took roughly 20–25 minutes before anyone acknowledged our request to pay. Once we did manage to ask for the bill, another 15 minutes passed before the check arrived—without a payment device. The server then proceeded to attend to other guests before returning, leaving us waiting yet another 15–20 minutes just to settle the bill. In total, what should have been a pleasant dinner turned into a 2–2.5 hour ordeal.

To be fair, there were two bright spots. The mineral water was excellent, and the woman who appeared to be the owner was warm and gracious. Sadly, these positives were overshadowed by the sluggish service, lack of coordination, and food that was far below the standard one would expect in Sardinia.

In summary, this was an unsatisfactory dining experience. The combination of long waits, mediocre food, and disorganized service left us with little desire to return. With so many excellent restaurants in Sardinia, this establishment unfortunately does not live up to its reputation.

Ps. Very...

Came here after reading all the positive reviews, the food and wine tasted great and was very well priced. When we arrived the restaurant seemed really busy and we didn't expect to get a table however we were shown to one in a small room next to the bar area. The service we got wasn't as good as we expected - maybe this was down to the tables location, but it seemed we were just put in the corner and left for the night.

Unfortunately we had a bit of a wine dilemma - we ordered a bottle of local red wine and the cork crumbled as the waiter tried to open it. As wine novices, we didn't feel confident enough to question the situation. However, locals on the surrounding tables expressed their dissatisfaction with the way he served the wine which left us feeling a bit confused. We waited for 20 minutes before a waitress finally passed us, and responded in a defensive manner without letting us explain our dilemma about whether or not the wine was good because of the cork - not just because we were being fussy about taste.

They then proceeded to bring out the wrong main course, which probably wouldn't have mattered had we not been slightly shafted during the rest of the meal.

Overall I think we were an unlucky table in a busy restaurant and other diners will have a great time that reflects the...

One of the hardest reviews to make for me as I try to be very fair with everyone. The food is delicious, the place is clean. Although it is very recommended to book in advance, you might get lucky before 7pm to have a table.

One particular waiter (mid aged, male, mostly in bar area at back) was extremely rude and had no manners how to behave around a customer. Firstly he told me to sit on another chair around the same table (why did you put it there if it is not to be seated?!) very much like an order to create more space for an EMPTY table. (From there on was hard on my broken Italian but still pretty much clear) This attitude of him took the attention of his colleague and she warned him that the table is empty anyway and I could change if someone would come. And then something shocking happened (again in Italian) she was arguing with her and using bad words next to us (Vaf..culo to be exact). Usually for such a behavior I would leave straight away 1 star but the rest of the team is very friendly and welcoming. Despite the attitude of her colleague, she did not lose her mood and kept smiling and welcoming us. The choice is yours to make. Despite good food and friendly ladies, I would not go to this restaurant ever again due to...