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| - I'll agree with a previous poster that this is the nicest restaurant in Avalon. But that's not saying much. Sorry, I wasn't that impressed - this is slightly-better-than-average Italian American fare. It's good, honest, and homey, and while I really enjoyed my entree, almost everything else about the experience was slightly lacking.
At times, the service was a bit loopy, and yet still trying too hard. Our group of five came in three quick phases, and at one point the waiter took the drink order of one of my dining companions, and walked away before he could take my order. We were also asked how we were doing before we had even ordered or even gotten some breadsticks - thanks, my water is particularly icy?
Waitstaff wearing bad polyester ties is pretty '90s, as was the iceberg lettuce salad served first. I would have LOVED it if the progression of the meal was more traditionally Italian, because the portion sizes were perfect for it - that is, the side pasta served first, then main course, then salad (or salad with the main course).
I REALLY enjoyed my main plate, cod with white beans. It was well-cooked, and had all of the flavors and consistencies I expected - the bread crumbs were a lovely addition. However, the marinara sauce had too much tomato paste going on, and the greens in the salad left something to be desired. I know salad greens are expensive, but iceberg lettuce isn't the way to go in a restaurant like this.
Overall, I wish Mia Madre would cut back on the pretense or the fancy or whatever it is a bit - it's the honest home style food that makes people come back. For what you get, the value is good for the price. Also NB, it's cash only.
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