Mercato

the food was incredible. i absolutly loved the scallops and my boyfriend loved the short ribs. it was definatly the best restaurant we have been to in a long time, maybe ever, it's a fairly small place, but it had a nice atmosphere. the servers were very attentive everyone wanted to help you. I'm not even sure if really just had one. It is definitly a place to bring a nice bottle of wine to. And don't skip dessert. The marscapone cheesecake was incredible. Next, we are going to try their sister restaurant Vallani.

I've attempted to eat here 5 times and was respectfully seated twice. The food is never a problem and the experience is great...once you're seated. My gripes come with the host/hostess attempting to seat the crowd of folks waiting at the door. On several occassions I've waited patiently, only to be looked right over while the party standing behind me is addressed and seated. I guess you have to wear a blazer and slacks. On another occassion my phone number was taken in order to let me know when seating was available...no call, of course.

I took my parents here. I've been wanting to try it but, as most smaller byobs, it was always too packed on fri and sat night and they don't take reservations so its usually a long wait. but i went on a monday night and got seated right away. we had the pumpkin fettucini, veal cutlet, and a seafood fra diavlo special and all were great. i liked how the pasta dishes were inventive and seasonal, not typical spaghetti and meatball. we had the tiramisu and choc pecan tart for dessert and they were delicious! service was very attentive. i can't wait to go back and try something esle!

Deliciously fresh ingredients, an inspired and varied new Italian menu, and a charming, if bustling, contemporary atmosphere make this my favorite restaurant in Philadelphia. In addition to offering impeccably prepared haute Italian mainstays like lobster ravioli, look for unexpected surprises like shortribs and herb-flavored sorbets. I highly recommend the $45 four-course tasting menu, which is an immensely enjoyable bargain. The quarters are compact, but the clientele is interesting and you may find yourself happily sharing wine and conversation with a neighboring table.

Thanks for creating our most reliable spot for well-prepared byo cuisine ... good service, great specials, intimate and simple interior. Keep up with the menu changes - we're always looking for some new menu items to change things up. Don't know about the $$$$ pricing advertised I'm thinking this is one of the more affordable Italian byo's ... large portions and very moderately priced pastas.