One of the most disappointing dining experiences we've had in a long time.
When the call came in from Ascari confirming our reservation and they pointed out they don't take credit cards (cash & debit only) we should have cancelled right then and there. This is a big pet peeve of mine. It's 2016 even I take more payment options then this business does.
We arrived and the place was loud. It's fairly small (15 tables) and they had a group of 12 booked. We could barley hear each other or the waitress. Not much they really could do about that but it really set the tone for the evening. Especially with them popping in and out for a smoke leaving the door open so the stank of their cigarettes can flow in.
Service was the worst we experienced in our 4 years together. Did I mention this was our anniversary? All we could do is laugh. There was only two waitresses working and one was dedicated to the party of 12 and hostess duties. Ours I think was stoned tbh. We asked for more water and she'd come by and fill the gasses on our neighbouring table and then walk away. We'd as a second time and it would take another 10 min. Getting a drink was equally as frustrating. I finally gave up and we even tried to give a subtle hint asking if it was always so busy.
Food was for the most part very good. The grilled lamb skewers were tasty but they were a little heavy handed with the maldon salt Broccolini fritti were crispy and not at all greasy. Agnolotti di Bufala was the perfect summer pasta dish, Light tasty and bright. My Spaghetti alla Carbonara however was like eating ramen noodles with Elmers glue paste.