Friday, August 14, 2009

Siena no evil, hear no evil

We had a little sumpin sumpin to celebrate today, so we headed to Siena because (a) I'd never been there, (b) I'd heard good things and (c) why the hell not? I wanted to be transported to Italy on a Slip 'n Slide of olive oil, but to be honest it was more like a juice box of Chianti.

Don't get me wrong - I liked it - but like so many things that are hyped beyond their capacity, it failed to live up to expectations. I got the spinach cavatelli with a cream tomato sauce, and it was fresh and lush, but not particularly interesting. If I have to add salt, I can't be all that impressed.

Although the wine list was comprehensive, when we asked for glasses instead of a bottle, the waiter said "red or white" and "Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc...." Somehow when we answered Chardonnay, I expected we'd have some options. Not so - I guess there's one Chardonnay by the glass. What it might be, I couldn't tell you, but it's incredibly sweet. I liked the bread and the marinated white beans, but the waiter seemed like he had better things to do.

Next time, so will we.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

You should have gone to Eos across the street instead. Great food, cool ambiance.

Glenbrook Laura

Poems in Search of Pictures said...

Good call - I love that place. If there's room at the tiny bar it's a great place for an after work cocktail. My only issue is that it's too loud inside on a busy weekend, but other than that, 9 thumbs up.

Stamford Talk said...

I have also found the service at Siena less than charming. I usually feel like I am annoying them by being there. I try to ignore that feeling and enjoy the pretty good food!
Where IS the best Italian in Stamford?
To each her own, perhaps?

Theresa said...

My personal favorite Italian is Emme of Capri on Summer Street (across from Barcelona). Massimo (the owner and pretty much the jack-of-all-trades there) is very personable and I think the food is fantastic. I've been to Mona Lisa, Il Falco, Columbus Park, Quattro Regali, Siena, and Aria, and Emme of Capri is the one we go back to time and time again.

However - I think you're right in your statement. Everyone has their own particular favorites when it comes to Italian cuisine!