I swore off Puck restaurants a long time ago, but decided to give this a shot due to convenience of being at the Mandalay. Lupo could be the one that brings Wolfgang back into my good graces again.
First and foremost I must recognize the excellent service. Our server Rafael was absolutely top notch. Completely knowledgeable on wines, cocktails, menu items and preparations. Extremely friendly and personable, these are the folks that are worth gold in the service industry.
Incredible selection of apéritifs and cocktails including Barrel aged Negronis. Ample wines by the glass as well as by the bottle and half bottle.
Bread service was excellent. Crusty sliced old world style like you'd find in the trattorias of Florence. Olive oil tempanade was outstanding. Fruity and spicy and so fresh.
Gemberi. Seared shrimps with roasted tomatoes and chilies on a flavorful base of white bean purée. Amazing.
Beet salad. Roasted red and gold baby beets alongside fresh burrata cheese, garnished with mint. Incredible.
Burrata ravioli. Homemade ravioli stuffed with burrata and simmered in marinara. So light and fresh and a portion size that won't overwhelm.
Iberico pork shoulder chargrilled, sliced, and served simply with a side of arugula. Better flavor and texture than probably any steak on the menu. Couldn't be more pleased with this dish. Again Reminiscent of a true Florentine dish.
Topped of the meal with a shared affogato gelato and espresso served with a side of baci cookies.
I was impressed with the selection of after dinner digestifs, amari, congac, and grappa. This is truly hard to find stuff. Pick one and enjoy.
Definitely worthy of 4 stars now and 5 stars if a repeat visit shows the same consistency in quality and service level. I look forward to it.