Note: all photographs were taken after the couples had left, and are of the servers, NOT the patrons!
The service was extremely polite, and while somewhat inexperienced, still added to the atmosphere. The servers, drink-refillers, host and hostess, bus boy, and clean-up girl all looked extremely correct in black slacks with a solid top. This writer particularly like the bus boy's Winnie the Pooh tie. Appetizers and salad were served promptly, as were drinks, but the entrees did take a little while in emerging from the kitchen. It was well worth the wait, however, as the servers attested to.
The menu consisted of choice gourmet Italian food. Bruschetta, sausage cups and cheese pinwheels were served as appetizers. A delicious Caesar salad was next, with the diner's choice of spaghetti and meatballs or chicken alfredo on fettucine following. Miniature cherry cheesecakes, or a scoop of cherry pie-filling wrapped in a won ton and fried (known as a Cherry Yum Yum) concluded the evening. Coffee, raspberry lemonade, and water flowed freely throughout, served by waiters who did not spill.
The atmosphere of Little Italy was relaxed and romantic. So much so that there were even a few dancers on the floor. Tables were wrapped in white shelf-paper. Conversation hearts, pink M&Ms, and red crayons made creative centerpieces, while a single candle on each table provided mood lighting.
The hosts took patrons' coats as they walked through the door, then guided them to a table. Servers appeared with appetizers, then took drink, salad, and entree orders. The bus boy served entrees, drink-refillers glided from table to table, and the clean-up girl stacked dishes then disappeared into the kitchen. A photographer circulated among the tables, snapping photos of distinguished patrons.
Little Italy charmed its visitors. One diner observed, "This is the best nightclub we have ever been to." Superb food, attentive service, and a charming atmosphere all combined to make a wonderful evening. It is hoped that Little Italy will appear again next Valentine's Day.
A special thank you is due to Eric and Sarah for their amazing leadership through this whole project, and unfailing patience. Also to the dishwashers Collin and Will!
Coffee and Other Bloopers:
Have you ever had a waitress who forgot to ask how you liked your coffee and had to come back? Who did it twice? Who remembered in the middle of her question that she was talking to the person who didn't need food, and quickly turned her head just in time to say the last word to the correct person? Who almost spilled her tray multiple times? Who asked you if you wanted dessert while you were in the middle of eating your entree? Who referred to the desserts as "Fattening" and "More Fattening"? Who accidentally sprayed whipped cream all over her slacks while she was garnishing a dessert?
Well, guess who that was!! ;-)
