Our group of eight came here to celebrate a friend's birthday. I had the veal Milanese, which tasted like it was bathed in balsamic vinaigrette and served with over-seasoned vegetables. Desserts may as well have been store-bought from King's and reheated. We were still gracious enough to get all eight of them and share them with the group, and so it was even more infuriating to see how the restaurant handled us after we paid the bill. Also, they charged $7.50 for a large bottle of Pellegrino, which is highway robbery.
We had paid our bill, but were having a last bottle of wine as a group. One of the servers was trying to clean up and bus the table. In a not so subtle hint, he attempted to remove a glass of beer from a friend's hand while he was still drinking it, until the friend protested and reminded him he wasn't done. They then sent a teenage hostess to try to get us to leave until my friend expressed his displeasure. They also sent a waiter tersely telling our friend that it was time for our party to leave while we were enjoying our wine. The owner should have either spaced out the reservations longer or at least tried to show more civility in asking us to wrap things up, especially after we had ordered appetizers, entrees, and every dessert on the menu and spent over $350 as a group. I would have also liked to see the owner address the group him/herself rather than send a teenager to do it first.
I regret tipping these guys 20% as their courteous service ended with the bill. Seriously, it's northern NJ and there are more BYOB Italian restaurants than there are people in the state. Don't throw your money away at...
Read moreWe ordered dinner at 6:45 - a pasta bolognese and a chicken giambotta and split a Caesar salad.
Our salad came at 7:25 - almost 45 minutes after ordering. Beyond average and literally each one of us had a single crouton on our plate. I noticed because of how odd it was to have just one
By 8:20 - almost 90 minutes after ordering - still no dinner and we were completely ignored the entire time. Not once did our waiter check in on us but walked passed us twenty times. When we asked to check on our food at 8:15 he walked away snd by us casually several times before telling us it was being worked on - no apology. At that point we had to get it to go as we’re going to be late to pick up our son from a birthday party.
Our to go bags came - we still tipped 20 percent as that is who we are despite truly what we should have done is request the manager to address the atrocious service and horrible waiter. You would think they would have as an apology offered a free dessert but so obtuse there was nothing.
Sadly the bolognese was very disappointing
The only redeeming aspect was the ambiance outside
I’ve heard the food is usually great - but even if our experience was an exception - the horrific service is reflective of at least that waiter’s incompetence which I imagine he subjects other...
Read moreCafe Azzuro Review
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If you're looking for a charming spot in Gladstone that feels like a home away from home, look no further than Cafe Azzuro. This delightful cafe offers not only an inviting atmosphere but also some of the most delicious food I've ever had. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with warmth and hospitality, thanks to Benny, the owner, who treats every guest like family. His attention to detail and genuine care for his customers truly set this place apart. Now, let's talk about the food! The menu is filled with fantastic options, but the avocado shrimp salad is an absolute standout. It's hands down one of the best salads I’ve ever tasted.Fresh ingredients elevate every dish, making each bite a delight. Having dined at some of the most expensive restaurants in New Jersey, I can confidently say that Cafe Azzuro ranks at the very top. The quality of the food and the level of service you receive here are unmatched. Whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Cafe Azzuro is a must-visit. It’s a place where you can enjoy incredible food in a welcoming environment. Also, if you miss 🇦🇱Expresso ☕️ coffee, stop by e mundet ta shoqeroni me nje teke raki 😘🇦🇱🙂 I can’t recommend this...
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