Why Marco Polo Restaurant Sucks

We always wanted to try this place. It seemed to have that funny, old school charm. The kind of place where neighborhood kids go for dinner before prom or take their mothers to on mother's day. The atmosphere is very formal, waiters in tuxedos and heavy renaissance style decor. The food - stinks. It was all totally generic and uncreative. I ordered a very expensive Lobster Ravioli. It tasted like potato pierogies doused in marinara sauce. When the waiter asked how our meals were I told him I couldn't taste even a hint of lobster and instead of apologizing he said the lobster meat is pureed and mixed in with the potato. If it was, it must have been about a tablespoon of lobster mixed into a pound of mashed potatoes. I would never go back. I think it's the kind of place that can rest on its laurels because the old guard italians in the neighborhood still support it. For delicious, fresh, creative italian dishes try Fragole on Court Street or just go to Caputos for some fresh pasta, a ball of homemade mozzarella and one of their excellent pestos.

El Pitayo - Smith Street

We are always trying to find good mexican in the neighborhood. We gave El Pitayo on Smith Street a try last night. The margaritas were strong and tasty. We ordered some guacamole for the table. It was bland, needed salt, lime, and cilantro. It was also the kind where the avocado is pureed and creamy - like they added sour cream (why?!?). I ordered the Chuletas with Salsa Verde. The pork was overcooked, but the salsa was nice and spicy. Bear ordered Bistec Tampiquena. Also over done, but had a nice charred taste. The steak was accompanied by a cheese enchilada in a flavorful, sweet mole sauce. The menu was vast and the service was friendly. I would recommend going in for a cheap burrito and some drinks, but not if you want a real culinary experience. For that, Maria's Mexican Bistro in Park Slope is the definite winner. Excellent steaks, unique inventive dishes, delicious guacamole, and great lava rock dishes. For a great mexican brunch, try Alma in Red Hook. We recommend sitting on the roof and ordering the Eggs Oaxaca or one of the Tortas accompanied by the best mexican potato salad I've ever had. For standard tex-mex fare like enchiladas and burritos, try Lobo on Court St. Nothing special, but always satisfying.

Has anyone tried El Nuevo Portal on Smith? It's bare bones with a lunch counter feel, but we have a feeling it might be really good.