Reviews for Piccolo Paese

07/26/2015 - Mike T.
Let me start by saying I have been to this restaurant many times before and could not rave about it more. But last night I had one of the most disappointing experiences in dining. Made a reservation on Tuesday and was not told that Saturday (last night) was "Camp week". I believe they have some arrangement with a local camp for dining. We arrived expecting the same great food and service we have always experienced at this gem of a restaurant. What a shock! The menu was so limited they only had a choice of 4 entrees (1 chicken,1 veal, 1 beef 1 fish)- I felt like I was giving my order at a wedding!. And if I wanted to order chicken parm. I could have gone to the local pizzeria. The server's were well meaning, but amateurish (we were 4 people and I never did get my appetizer). When they started serving my wife's entree before we had the pasta and I questioned them, the next thing I know both courses are showing up together (there wasn't enough room for all on the table)! They couldn't even get the concept of a "Dry" martini (and I know they usually have a fabulous bartender). The food was adequate but certainly not up to their usual standards and there would be ice in Hades if I had to wait any longer to order coffee (we eventually left without it). The prices at this establishment are not for the faint of wallet and last nights cafeteria experience was no exception but previously I have always thought the experience was well worth the price and usually tip at 30% for their wonderful service. When I got the bill they had already been kind enough to add a 20% gratuity into it !!! Disappointment would be a gross understatement. I understand whatever arrangements they have made with this camp (or whatever it is) may be good for the summer business but at least they should advise their regular "non-camp" customers that they are lowering their usual high standards on certain weekends. It hurts me to write this review but I think people should be aware to question them when making a reservation during the summer months.