Scene: Mezzodi’s can get very busy. The cozy bar, which serves a fair amount of pizza, is a convenient waiting area for anyone running airport errands. The restaurant is also popular with the Fleur Cinema crowd. (For a movie ticket stub diners can get a two-for-one deal on an appetizer, glass of wine or dessert.)A recent Wednesday evening was quiet, however, with a steady stream of regulars. Now managed by the same local firm that runs Centro, Django and Gateway Market, the 11-year-old mainstay has kept its art deco look even as it feels somewhat newly open because it was totally re-carpeted and repainted earlier this year.

Food: Mezzodi’s was one of the first full-service restaurants on the south side to offer half-portion options. A half-order of the shrimp fra diavolo ($10.99), a heaping spicy seafood dish with toasted South Union Bakery bread, fresh tomatoes and mushrooms, was more than enough.The croutons in the salad are made on site and we were happy we took the house dressing, a light creamy balsamic.It was great to be able to try chicken picatta ($15.99), a traditional Italian plate of chicken cutlets, lightly cooked with lemon, wine and capers.

The little ears pasta dish, smoked chicken orecchiette ($14.99) was light and flavorful.Cocktail: Absolut pear vodka and apple pucker are co-stars in the Pearadise Martini ($7), a sweet favorite here.Service: Flawless. Our waitress, Cheryl, an affable pro, has been at Mezzodi’s since it opened.Dessert: The falling down chocolate cake ($4.99) served warm with whipped cream and raspberry sauce, was decadent and truly meant to be shared.

Similar Posts:

Share