One of the best restaurants around. The food is over the top great, service is phenomenal, atmosphere is good, and one of the best happy hours with half off drinks from 3:-7pm and bites. Both lunch and dinner choices are excellent. For dinner, I had the Lamb, buttermilk potatoes, and asparagus which was delightful. The house Cab wine is good. The bread pudding and apple pie desserts along with cappuccino was outstanding. I highly recommend Bistro Mezzaluna for a 100% guarantee great meal.
(5)
S F.
This is by far the best italian I have had since leaving nj 8 years ago. I started with the arugula salad and then the chicken (left off the sausage) and rigatoni with balsamic. I am not a huge balsamic person but this was delicious!! I will be back!!!!
(5)
Ryan O.
Had an awful experience here a few months back. Live a stones throw away and had never come here. My gf and I met a couple at the Grateful Palate earlier in the evening and they raved about the happy hour here. Considering its a few blocks away we figured we'd give it a quick try. My drink preferences are, many times, classic cocktails and unfortunately it's very hard to find anyone who knows how to properly make them. That being said I am always more than willing to instruct them how to make them. Most take no longer than a martini. So we sit down and I ask her if she knows how to make a sidecar and she says yes. I see her go over to her phone to look it up which I'm fine with... It's only 3 ingredients and it is only to be served up. She served it to me on the rocks. I courteously corrected her and asked her to just strain out the ice and put it in a cocktail glass. A server who was just standing around says, mind you I'm a good 20-25 feet away, "Maybe he should learn how to order his drink!" Holy sweet heavens did that infuriate me!! Another example of the epitome of god awful hospitality workers that are somehow employed in South Florida. Instead of going to a manager I went to speak to the bartender and this server privately to try to resolve the situation. Bartender was pleasant throughout. The server literally laughed in my face. I tried giving her a chance to redeem herself and I'm not standing for anymore of that BS so I asked for the GM and explained what happened. He comped us our drinks, I left the bartender a very generous tip and didn't care to stick around for what was to happen to the server but I sure hope they fired her. I've never been so offended at a restaurant.
(2)
Joshua B.
lobster bisque - awesome. Black grouper n green beans - awesome. Great wine - even better.
(5)
Holly G.
Food is always a winner, bartenders lovely, However why oh why the need for the new larger place.. its lost its ambience, I so miss the other place, this is stark, boring and too much like a cheap banquet hall, the parking lot reminds me of a macaroni grill, when its a class act all the way..i miss the old days
(5)
Elizabeth P.
Came here last night for dinner and it was superb! The food was very well prepared and seasoned and our waiter paid very close attention to all the needs of everyone there.
(5)
Ziva A.
This place has the best Oyster Happy Hour deal ever! A dozen was only $12- they were a buck each!!! Super fresh and normally double the price. Its a very elegant restaurant that offers a fine dining experience. We sat at the bar and received excellent service from the bartender; she was very sweet and attentive. The shrimp in buffalo sauce was very delicious. This restaurant is pricey but the best time to go is during HH so you get the rocking deal!
(5)
Courtney C.
LOVED this place. We live within walking distance and have been waiting for an occasion to try it out. We stopped in on 4th of July before heading out to catch the fireworks. It was empty when we arrived (likely due to the holiday) but we had the back patio to ourselves (and our pup). Service was fantastic- our waiter Alex was great. We ordered the buffalo shrimp to start, which was so outstanding, that my boyfriend ordered a second plate. For our entrees, we chose the lobster humedor special and the yellow snapper. No kidding, the lobster humedor was one of the most exquisite dishes I've ever eaten. Complete with two lobster tails, sauteed spinach, mushrooms, and fresh pasta, I am still dreaming about it.
(5)
Susan J.
Awesome place !! The food is so good it melts in your mouth the staff is awesome . Place is gorgeous ask for Waz !!!
(5)
Kinjal K.
I went to this restaurant for happy hour with my friends. It was fairly crowded when we arrived. We were seated at a long table arrangement next to the bar. The service was a little slow because they only had two people working the bar. One was steadily behind the bar and the other was going to all the tables taking orders. There were way too many people there. She should have had help. I first ordered the meatballs. The portion was small and they lacked in flavor. I was not satisfied and decided to try the baked brie. That was okay, but I was not a fan of the nuts inside. I finally decided to try the Maryland crab cake. That was actually pretty good!! I was not a fan of the basil martini I ordered, and I decided not to order anymore from the bar. All in all, I don't think I'll be returning to this restaurant. The service was too slow, and the food was not worth the prices. Trying all those dishes and not finding one I liked left me craving something simple, like a burger.
(3)
Kerri Y.
Exceptional Dining experience, great place for date night. I went here the suggestion of the hotel and they did not steer me wrong. As other reviews say the restuarnt is clean, classy and just fantastic service. The backlit menus were a great touch. The wine and food are beyond excellent. We started with the Homemade meatballs on suggestion of the waiter and they were scrumptious. We both had steak and both were excellent peices of meat. After dinner we hit the piano bar for some after dinner port. The atmosphere was more casual and the crowd that hung around was on the older side. Overall still great. It was a little pricey- but what you would expect to pay at any higher quality restaurant. I would recommend this place to any one visiting Ft. Lauderdale.
(5)
Mr. H.
Came in for a quick meal and the food was so delicious and the staff was perfect. I ordered the free range organic chicken with potatoes and salad and I would definitely order that again.!!
Sorry, but I felt a bit uncomfortable in this restaurant. It's just too stuffy and full of over-privileged rich folk. Kind of looks like a hotel lobby really. The food is quite expensive, but to their credit it is tasty and fresh. This may be something you do for an anniversary perhaps, but not every day.
(3)
Jesus R.
This place exudes class. It's intimate, with lovely lighting and smooth melodies traveling from the piano bar adding to the charm. The service is impeccable. The waitstaff has the right mix of charm and professionalism. This is the type of place you take your lady to, wine her, dine her, ask the piano player to play a Donnie Hathaway song and slow dance with her as if no one is watching. Of course, everyone will, but that's still what you should do, dammit!
(4)
Dara B.
Off the beaten path of 17th Street Causeway, is this quaint place. Excellent happy hour 4-7pm. The bar area gets packed during those times but lingers away after 7. I highly recommend the baked brie!!!
(5)
Heidi M.
First impressions mean everything... The restaurant is very classy and pristine. Low lighting and menus that light up . Dress up or come in slacks and a nice top,just dress classy. Service: 4 table staff. One gave our menus and told us the special. As well as took our orders for drinks and appetizers. Another gave us our bread. Another was our bus boy and a 4th took our main order. I was a bit confused as to who our main waiter was. Unfortunately it was the later who seemed unfriendly, abrupt and would walk away before I could finish my sentence. Rarely smiled and seemed annoyed. Food: You receive a basket of bread and delicious wheat and grain crackers. I ordered the seafood pasta ($39) full of seafood , 1/2 lobster tail, sea scallops, clams, shrimp and calamari all cooked to perfection. BUT the pasta was overcooked. A bit too soft almost mushy. The sauce was delicious. Our other meal was the special, Halibut ($39) in a white mild lemon butter sauce ..absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection. It was offered with risotto but and asparagus. Dessert key lime pie with a raspberry sauce yummy ($10) and I had a glass of Chianti ($10) and a cocktail ($12) I would give the wait staff 5 stars if it were not for the waiter we ended up with and the confusion of who was our waiter. I give 4 stars Food 4 stars due to over cooked pasta, it really should be slightly aldente. Otherwise food was Delicious. Bathrooms 2stars, bring your night goggles. It is so dark in the bathrooms that I barely could see my lips close up to the mirror as I tried to put some lip gloss on. Truthfully with what we pay for dinner they surely can afford a few light fixtures in the ladies room so we can see how we look let alone the soap and faucet. Over all 4 stars... They would have had 5 if not for the pasta and unfriendly waiter. Would I go back. Yes on a special occasion. And would avoid the pasta and that waitor
(4)
Jean F.
Valentine's Day at Mezzaluna was a romantic evening. We sat on the terrace which was lovely and warmed with heated lamps. Maryland crab cakes where delicious. Our server was very helpful explaining the specials. We had prime rib which was cooked to perfection and a very ample portion. My husband loved the yellow snapper, the sauce was rich without being overpowering, tarragon and capers what a great combination. I'm embarrassed to say our plates were practically licked cleaned. The flour less chocolate cake we paired with the coconut sorbet, just yummy! The bill was hefty, but well worth it for an extra special evening.
(5)
Joe B.
Top notch ambiance, food and service! Valet or park yourself and walk in from close in front. Italian style seafood and steaks made to perfection. great service and presentation. Real hand drying towels in the bathroom and over the top touch. A couples dream date dinner place for sure.
(5)
Richard A.
Wonderful food, service and atmosphere. Every year we dine there when visiting Ft Lauderdale. Even though we miss the old location because of its energy and jammed dining atmosphere, the consistant fantastic food makes the more open and elegant new venue make us forget. So many good things. But I love their Caesar, bisque and veal.
(4)
Adrianna U.
So.... i don't get to experience restaurants like this often, so is it too hard to expect an extraordinary meal? I guess that was my problem. I expected to be really satisfied and all i got was good, but not great... ya feelz me? I went with a group and sampled many of the appetizers. this included shrimp Spring Rolls, which weren't too bad. I also tried the crab cakes which were pretty tasty. For my meal, i had the Fra Diavolo, but I also got to try the seafood pasta. First off, I couldn't really tell the difference between the two. I understand the Fra is supposed to be spicier, but they seriously tasted like they came from the same sauce. Maybe it's my unsophisticated palete xD Pasta was fine. Not the best thing I tasted, so it was kind of a let down when you're paying almost $40 dollars for it. It didn't have too much sauce and it's flavors weren't too on point. Not terrible, of course, or anything unbearable to eat. Just not even close to the best pasta i've had. Switching subjects, the ambiance is very nice. Inside is like a little mansion/house. Bathrooms are very classy. They had cloth napkins, and I wasn't even sure where to put them when i was done xD We sat on the outside with nice sparkling lights. Makes you feel like your in a European city, until you realize your in a meh area of Ft. Lauderdale.
(3)
Mark S.
Went in for dinner with my family while on vacation. After seated we were greeted by Phil our waiter. He was so knowledgable and passionate about the menu, and his personal favorites. He started us with wine which was very nice. Then to a Wedge salad and a shrimp cocktail with shrimp the size of my hand that was excellent. Our main dishes were Free Range Chicken, veal parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs and I had a Ribeye steak. I have eaten at some of the best steakhouses in NY and this was probably the best ribeye I ever had. For dessert we had Apple crumb, NY cheesecake, flourless chocolate cake and the special berry pie. All were outstanding. The price was not cheap but well worth it for the exquisite meal that we had. Thanks Phil for the great service. Your NY friends. PS the light up menus were awesome
(5)
Gary L.
Great service even right at closing time. Had wedge salad with a great dressing along with special of the day fish. Martinis were mixed to perfection. For those on a budget, go to outback. Four in our party and with tax and tip, tab was $300.00. Will be back!
(5)
Marqus R.
Oh yeah! Now we're talking about a really great place. It's really a class act place. I've been going to Bistro Mezzaluna for a number of years, starting off at their prior location over on 17th Causeway. Now they've moved into what was formerly Rio, a big, sumptuous, elegant facility. They have a beautiful lobby, bar/lounge area, inside dinning room and shaded outside patio with a nice fountain which when seated with older men I tend to avoid because of what seems to be the resultant effects of running water seems to have on their enlarged prostates. Excuse me for pointing that out, but some people really do need to know about that. The service is professional, totally top notch and the food, though somewhat on the pricey sides is top quality, properly prepared, elegantly presented and generally worth it. One thing that they have that most other restaurants do not have is high tech background illuminating menus. So, no matter the lighting and even if you have poor vision, the menus are easily read.
(4)
Bruce K.
I let my friend the Internet millionaire choose and I was sorta hoping that he might spring for the check. Oh well. It was still an absolutely top notch excellent meal. I had a beer in the bar while I waited for my friend to show up. We were then shown to a nice table outside (it was only 75, so it was cool). Another table had the buffalo mozzarella salad and it looked excellent, so I had that to start. A good choice. Some big pieces of fresh beefsteak tomatoes and slices of creamy mozzarella cheese with three big roasted peppers. It was enough for two. For my main, I had the chicken and sausage pasta. Lots of thin sliced pamesan on top, it had an excellent rich flavor and a really yummy brothy sauce mixed through. So much, I ended up taking half of it home to leave room for dessert. A piece of key lime pie. The side was let down a bit here - it was nice and creamy, but it wasn't as tart as I would have liked. The crust was good - I ate all of that and maybe a third of the pie. As Michelle mentions, a great place for a date. Good ambiance and good service and good food. You can skip the valet parking - the lot is plenty big. Note: The map pin is slightly off. East of Federal Highway on 17th Street, turn right (south) onto Tenth Avenue.
(4)
Caitlin I.
The Oysters Rockefeller are on point! They have a frothy creamy heavenly whip on top that will be part of my last meal. I had the Chilean seabass, it was amazing but then again Chilean seabass is always amazing, IMO. Boyfriend had Mahi topped with crabmeat, I think. To be perfectly honest my seabass was my only concern, it was THAT good. The portion was large! I was stuffed, everyone enjoyed their food. Bathrooms had cloth napkins...soooo fancyyyyy. The menus cracked me up, my dad, who is older loved them, it's the only place I haven't seen him turn his phone flashlight on to read the menu (they light up when you open them). Service was great and our waiter had some input on what dishes to try. This place is pricy, I'd only come for a special occasion because I'm a poor twenty-something but it's worth coming at least once!
Still as good as ever with excellent food, atmosphere and service. Loved it. Jerry is an excellent manager as well. Bar hops on weekend evenings.
(5)
Carolyn C.
Loved this place!!! Our meal was extraordinary, service was top notch and the food was so amazing... Our waiter Robert clearly loved his job... His eyes sparkled when he described the specials... He took great care of our crew. Enjoyed the ambiance, the menus even lit up so you could see them! From appetizers, to drinks, main dishes and desserts...they were all great in my book. Not a single complaint from our visit. I would love to visit here again.
(5)
Chuck L.
Would have like to have given them four and one-half stars...so consider this review four and one-half stars! Eight-fifteen reservations for Friday night (my new sweetheart's 60th birthday...and a babe to boot!) Arrived at approximately 7:45PM. Greeted by enthusiastic valet service! Go figure! Not kids, but real valet gentlemen who started off the evening perfectly! Short trip to the front desk, verified reservations and mentioned that we would be sitting at the bar for a cocktail before dinner. "No problem, make sure you enjoy and I'll come and get you later'. No 15 minutes, no 10 minutes, but just 'later'! Perfect. I'm quite comfortable already. By the way, the place is magnificently beautiful. Very friendly bartenders who were clad in nondescript clothing i.e. no uniforms, but rather clothing that suggested I was at someones home for a party. Very comfortable atmosphere! Well stocked bar by the way! About 25 minutes later, a young lady came by to let us know our table was ready if 'we were ready'...Nice! no push no rush....and the place was NOT empty...they didn't have to do this! On the way over to the table the hostess mentioned that she was taking us to a very quiet table where we could converse without yelling at each other....noise level was moderate and conducive to conversation, yet our table was extra special! I mentioned when making reservations that it was a 'special' occasion ....it did not fall on deaf ears! Waiter strolled by about 3 minutes later and in a very friendly fashion asked if our drinks were OK and if we needed refills....would be back to discuss menu...very polite, friendly and good natured! Kudos to him! Waiter returned with our drinks (we asked to have them refreshed) and explained the specials...upon his return, my date needed clarification and was offered such. She decided upon the Maryland crab cakes and I ordered the yellow snapper. A mozzarella caprese appetizer was order and arrived with perfect timing. Excellent cheese...tomatoes were so so, but that seems par for the course as of late. No blame here! Dinner arrived perfectly timed and discretely without fanfare...polite and professional and 'light'...no pretense here...serious yet very friendly! Dinner was good...my date raved about the crab cakes and were everything the waiter claimed....my fish was OK...nothing overly special but NO complaints...when you're in love, food is not going under the microscope although in all seriousness, it was quite good. A shared cheesecake (HUGH slice!) was enjoyed by the both of us.... A trip to the lounge for a last drink and some music. GREAT piano player with a great voice and a great lounge 'repertoire' made a great finale to our evening! The piano player even stopped mid-lyrics to call out 'good night' to us! What a fantastic touch to a great evening! Whenever a special event is taking place in your life, this is the place to celebrate...yet I will return for those 'special' dinners with my 'special' someone in the very near future! Thank you for a great evening not soon forgotten!
(5)
Rocki R.
one of my fav restaurants. Food is always good, Service is always great. When they first moved to the much larger new location i thought they may lose their quality and coziness but they didn't. We usually get the filet and seabass but have tried most everything on the menu and never been disappointed.
(5)
Diana N.
Very classy, almost looks like you re walking into a nice hotel. Unfortunately I ordered a lobster roll which i thought was terrible. I'd like to go back to order a different dish. I feel like this place deserves another try.
(2)
Maryann C.
The decor is beautiful, the lighted menus a wonderful idea, our server Waz was amazing...first class! Parts of the food were great...oysters, Caesar salad, flour less chocolate cake (to die for) the fish was good, spinach great a nice meal, yes, pricey. The music after dinner at the bar was the perfect touch to a beautiful anniversary evening.
(4)
S K.
A quiet night for the restaurant on a Sunday at 7:30pm. Exceptional service and four excellent dinners plus appetizers. Great crab cakes, porterhouse, calamari, lobster bisque. All was delicious. Lovely atmosphere.
(5)
Umar G.
The food at Mezzaluna can be described as lush. The best ingredients, not too overworked ... cooked just enough to bring out their ... lusciousness. :) We started with the spring rolls and the calamari. The spring rolls were not greasy and had a nice mango salsa accompaniement. The calamari had been coated with a tempura rice batter (I think) and so the breading was airy and crisp and complemented soft chewiness of the rings. Our salad was a caeser with garlic croutons. The lettuce was crisp, the salad was not overly dressed and had generous, thick shavings of a nutty reggiano. My main course was the filet mignon as was my partners. I had mine rare and he had his medium rare. Both came out done to perfection. The sides (usually mushy) were well seasoned and the home fries were crisp chunks of potato elevated to a higher level. Finally we come to the piece de resistance. Ina Garten says everybody remembers dessert and she was spot on in this case. My cheesecake was to die for! The filling was light and airy and not overly sweet. The crust was crisp enough to provide a nice contrast, and if one's bite got too creamy, there was a schmear of raspberry sauce on the plate to provide just enough tart to want to continue eating the cake. All in all Mezzaluna delivers. It seems to be that their credo may be that if you get the best ingredients and treat them just right, they'll treat you right in return. If you have a special night coming up, give this one a try.
(4)
Night Ryder I.
Classy place. Great food. Half pound Bistro Burger looked small but was very filling, sweet roasted pepper relish was delicious. Luv the thin fries. Cool lighted menu. Pamper yourself with a visit to this establishment.
(5)
Diane S.
Went here for our anniversary dinner. We sat at the bar when we first got there and they seemed to have a decent happy hour crowd and drink prices were good. We were seated for dinner and service and food was just mediocre. I ordered the scallops and my bf ordered rack of lamb. Very pricy and we were not impressed.
(3)
Howard N.
They have gotten too big. This was the second year that it wasn't very good. In fact, this year it was terrible. We were a party of eight and after a little over two hours we left after the waiter announced he had forgotten to submit our order. Not good.
(2)
Sarah P.
I like this place, I do. HOWEVER, the food is overpriced for what it is (one colossal shrimp for the shrimp cocktail is $6.75). I don't judge by price alone, but the taste of the food we ordered didn't totally "wow" me. I give the service 5 stars, and the atmosphere and wine menu 4 stars. They have live music (piano and singer) on weekend nights and the bar area is really comfortable in an old school way. It is definitely an older crowd, but not in a creepy meet-market sort of way. It just offers a slower pace for a Friday or Saturday night if that's what you're in the mood for. They serve lunch as well, and have a private room upstairs for corporate or social events. I agree with some of the other reviewers that it's a great "meet the parents" sort of restaurant, and the LED light up menus save my boyfriend the embarrassment of asking to use the Flashlight app on my phone:)
(3)
Thomas R.
Love this place. Great happy hour love the food. We eat dinner out 7 nights a week and this is one of our favs. Love the oysters and the seafood appetizer salad.
(5)
rachel u.
I've heard Bistro Mezzaluna mentioned many times, and was excited to check it out for myself! I got a one-a-day deal for a $50 for 25. We ordered the arugula salad, simple, but good. I was disappointed by the meatballs, figured a place like Mezzaluna would have out-of-this-world meatballs. They were good, but not amazing. The sauce they were in was delicious though, wish the meatballs had met the perfection of their sauce... For dinner, rack of lamb with mashed potato, sauteed spinach, and roasted tomatoes topped with goat cheese. These tomatoes made the dish, the mild goat cheese with the tomato went perfectly with the perfectly prepared lamb. Chocolate cake was awesome and a scoop of coffee/mocha chip ice cream served on the side was good, too. Good service, although a bit slow, I'm pretty sure he was over compensating for not making us feel rushed. They were booked for 9pm reservations, so we went in at 930.
(4)
Lorraine U.
Wonderful meal there last night. Arugala salad and truffle mac and cheese to die! Will be back.
(5)
Louise H.
I have to admit I wasn't expecting to enjoy Mezzaluna- its in my neighborhood and I've always heard it was for the 40+ crowd and a meat market for Ft. Laud's aging bachelors, however the food was so outstanding that I can ignore it. I went with my family and was very impressed by the huge portions that I feel justify the pricey ticket prices. We had the oysters, which apparently sell for a $1 each during happy hour (we missed it) and a beautiful and entree-sized heirloom salad, which was a tad overdressed. My father had the lobster mac'n'cheese, which is his usual and I was pleasantly surprised at the hugeness of the dish and that it wasn't too rich- I was expecting a little cast iron skillet oozing with fat a la Rok Burger. My stepmother and friend had the seafood pasta which is honestly about 3lbs of spaghetti, biggest scallops I've ever seen, clams, lobster and shrimp- plenty of leftovers for the next week! Trying to keep with my "diet" I had the yellowtail snapper with capers, tomatoes and crab meat and substituted the mashed potatoes for extra asparagus and spinach. Very lovely and light although I felt the crab didn't do anything to the dish. Would definetly go back- lovely evening.
(4)
Brittany M.
No way around it...this place is amazing! Definitely a slightly older crowd (I'm 24 so older than me but not necessarily old old) but that could be because it is very pricey. Portions are huge though and so fresh/delcious. Linguine and clams are out of this world! This is a great place to take your parents when they come in town for a visit. Took mine and my boyfriend's parents and everyone raved the whole time!
(5)
Douglas C.
I have only eaten here a couple of times as there are other on par Italian dining options at similar or lower prices in the Fort Lauderdale area. However, I have been very pleased whenever I dine here. Most recently, I started off with a very tasty caesar salad and then had their rigatoni bolognese, upon the recommendation of our friendly and gregarious waiter. The rigatoni was cooked al dente and the meat sauce, consisting of a mixture of veal, pork and beef was sweet, low on acidity and was a comforting and fulfilling dish. Portions are large here. On a previous occasion I had the linguine with white clam sauce. It was chock full of clams and memorably good. The restaurant is very comfortable with a large bar, booths and tables throughout. Lifting the menu is a workout since they are back lit which is pretty entertaining when you are not suspecting it (sorry I ruined the surprise). Dining companions I was with mentioned they too really enjoyed their meal, especially a snapper special which did look very good indeed. For dessert, the chocolate cake/souffle was light, fluffy, rich and delicious. I like Bistro Mezzaluna and if it were a little less expensive I would eat there more often. However, it is nice for a special occasion and quality Italian food.
(3)
Frank D.
TIRAMISU is as good as it gets - period after a show at the broward center for the performing arts this past sunday the early evening lounge here was surprisingly active - i was actually expecting an empty restaurant since it isn't yet season the point of my visit was to have a night-cap (DRAMBUIE) and discuss the performance (LAST CALL with terri girvens) and also to show my daughter the light-up menus plus have dessert (TIRAMISU) i cannot tell you what else they offer BUT to come only for dessert is worth the trip
(5)
Elliott L.
Excellent decor, food and service. The light up menus were cute. We got the sesame crusted sear tuna and sea bass....both dishes were so fresh and perfectly seasoned. The apple pie was suggested for 2, it could have handled 4 so worth the price. No wait considering it was prime time on a Saturday night. I would revisit this place anytime I am in town.
(5)
Kim B.
My roommate and I went to Bistro Mezzaluna, very nice restaurant. The service was very professional. I tried the Pan Roasted Yellow Tail Snapper and it was delicious. The asparagus was tender and the mozzarella was fresh tasting. The fish, delicate and moist. I would highly recommend this restaurant for a quaint dinning atmosphere.
(5)
Mike W.
Great food great service! Love the new location.
(5)
stephanie f.
I've lived in Fort Lauderdale for over 3 years, and have frequented many restaurants but somehow never made it to Bistro M. Right on 17th street, I can't even tell you how many times i drove by it unsuspecting. From the outside it looks like a regular, run of the mill, family italian restaurant in a shopping plaza. Looks can be deceiving. Inside, are plenty of awards including Zagat, in a small, warm atmosphere. To the left is a nice bar and to the right are the tables. Service was a bit slow, but the food was great. The menu literally lights up upon opening it. Cool, but i would rather save a few dollars on my meal. The menu is small but everything looked good. We were going to order the special, but they came back after they had run out. On to the food Tomato Basil Soup: Thick, creamy goodness with Homemade croutons in the middle. Thumbs Up. Seabass: Nothing beats seabass in my opinion. And this was great. Lemon Swordfish (sorry can't remember the name of it exactly) I think was even better than the Seabass which is hard to do. I can't wait to come back to this little place. I have to make up for the 3 years i didn't see it.
(4)
Richard S.
Had dinner here the other night and I realize that now I don't have to leave Ft Lauderdale for really bad pseudo Italian food. I ordered a monstrosity called penne with chicken, sausage, broccoli rabe in some kind of horrid balsamic sauce. The penne was really rigatoni and the overcooked boneless chicken chunks were a challenge to chew. The rest of it looked and tasted awful. I truly regret not sending it back. The service was adequate but I'm not sure who our waiter was as we had several during the course of dinner. It ranged from indifferent to obsequious, but everything came out promptly. That night hasn't changed my opinion that Ft Lauderdale has the most mediocre to terrible, bordering on criminal fraud, overpriced eateries anywhere in South Florida. Broward County food seems to be at best, pizza, burgers, wings, and burritos and not much else unless you want to take a big expensive risk. For good restaurant experience and sophisticated menus, high quality, and professional service, go to Miami, Delray Beach, or Boca. I do.
I am so disappointed we went to this place when there are so many great places around but I have to say that this is maybe the NASTIEST place I have been in my whole life, and I have been in many. Everything about this place is bad. This is the place for you if you are over 70 years old and you have a nasty attitude towards people around you, then you will fit perfectly in the place. Some of the people working at the bar should be working in a prison instead of doing hospitality. (specially the curly blond older woman) Not to mention the place taking the public parking space that is in front of the building so that way you have to do a ridiculous valet parking. I wonder if this is even legal? This is a great place to take your worst enemy...I mean REALLY!
(1)
Luis M.
This unsuspecting location is one that I've sadly passed by countless times on the way to the beach. A friend tipped me off to Mezzaluna, and I'm for sure coming back. The meals were inexplicably sultry, decadent, passionate. Just sexy. A place like this might get the unlayable laid. And like a high end hooker, it'll cost ya. My gf and I celebrated Valentines Day a week early and I decided, why not go all out? I want to show her I love her, I'll probably even buy her a pepsi. She was pleased. The mood lighting and simple, romantic, decor was just right for the occasion. drink orders were taken, and steamy delicious rolls were served. we couldnt get enough. Ally ordered the salmon (30 bucks) and I ordered the 20 oz ribeye (45). Our meals were promptly served, and we dug in after bouts of beach-induced hunger pangs. My ribeye really hit the spot. I literally said out loud that it was the best cooked piece of meat I had ever had, juicy slobbery, thick and bloody... and that includes counteless rounds at Texas De Brazil. Mashed potatoes were fresh and just like i love them, and I was even more pleased when the waiter brought me the "tobacco onion rings" I had asked about. They were delicious strings of oniony goodness. My girl's salmon was also cooked to perfection. Still moist over fresh arrugula with goat cheese. The service was also phenomenal, very kind, polite, and attentive. And the GF enjoyed her pepsi too.
(4)
Brooke K.
Don't let the location fool you as this restaurant will satisfy the more discerning of palates. Had the pleasure of enjoying the personality and skills of Executive Chef, Brian Rutherford at a local cooking school in town and decided to once again visit the restaurant. We were referred our first time about six months ago, took guests the second time and each visit was totally enjoyable. Ask for "Waz" for your waiter and do try the fabulous bread pudding or flourless chocolate cake for dessert.
(4)
John C.
Bistro Mezzaluna has been around since before 1995 - a lifetime in restaurant years. For a while, it was one of a few "see and be seen" eateries where local movers & shakers would vie for preferred seating. Although that is still somewhat the case, the addition of more options, including Casa D'Angelo, Jacksons and Riley McDermiitt's has made it possible to walk in to Mezzaluna on a Satiurday night without a reservation and be immediately seated, which is exactly what I did last night with three friends. I must say that the service was absolutely impeccable. Our server, Phillip had great suggestions and never made us feel rushed. He timed the courses perfectly and the dishes (sea bass, yellowtail, pasta puttenesca) were evenly good with one exception. The seafood pasta, which the server mentioned was his favorite dish on the menu, consisted of large sea scallops, shrimp, clams and lobster, served over a light, fresh tomato and olive oil sauce and garnished with a large bunch of fresh basil neded the kick provided by the crushed red pepper that the server brought on the side. More importantly, the lobster tail had been previously frozen and was impossible to remove from the shell. When I brought this the the server's attention, he offered to bring a freshly cooked tail, but that also had been previously frozen and stuck to the shell, although somewhat less so. For the price ($39.00) Mezzaluna should be using fresh lobster tail in this dish. The reality is that the dish would have been just as good without the lobster, which didn't contribute much flavor. Other than that one misstep from the kitchen, we thouroughly enjoyed our Saturday night Mezzaluna experience. The restaurant is visually very appealing, with warm natural woods and fabrics, and the lighting is perfect, with pendant lamps lighting the booths and candles on the tables. Competition is good for restaurant patrons, and now that Mezzaluna is not one of the only high-end games in town, they seemed to truly appreciate our business. If you go, ask to be seated at one of Phillip's tables. He is one of the best waiters I have experienced anywhere. Parking note: Mezzaluna is located in a strip mall. Bypass the valet. Self-parking is plentiful in the lot directly in front of the restaurant..
(4)
Alex S.
I've eaten here - and done take out - several times and their pasta is really really good. I usually get the rigatoni bolognese, which is great. A little lighter than a typical bolognese, not creamy, but it's delicious. Their pasta servings are huge. They can seriously feed at leasat two and maybe three people as an entree. They are expensive too. Personally, I'd rather pay half the price for half the food, but at least you'll be left with great leftovers.
(4)
Shelby C.
Wonderful meal! Great service, ambiance, and the food was excellent! The best Chilean sea bass I ever had in my life. We visited late night during the week....off season...so we were seated right away (no reservations) We heard that it can be a long wait at other times. Can't wait to go back!!
(5)
Susan E.
Great bar and Happy Hour with piano and terrific appetizers! Restaurant and bar have nice ambience as well as good food. Good place for lunch too!
(4)
narisa s.
This restaurant is amazing. The service is so professional and the ambiance is sophisticated and private. Food is to die for. Reccomend for sure
(5)
Darryn T.
Once again, full disclosure, I am a vegetarian (eggs and cheese) and Italian food is a great go to. Normally. Nearly zero choices on the menu. No eggplant parmigiana, nothing. When I told my server I expected more vegetarian selections at an Italian restaurant her response was, "Oh, we are northern Italian." Okay, fair enough. Dark and noisy with the ambiance of, and another reviewer already mentioned it, a hotel lobby. Perhaps the food would have been okay, I'll never know. Good luck.
(2)
Astrid S.
Went there for lunch. The place looks amazing, the decor is beautiful. It's perfect for business lunches as well as date night. I had the Mahi Mahi - one of the best meals I've had in months. Absolutely delicious. The husband had Rigatoni with Bolognese - he loved his dish as well. The only thing, the service was a bit slow, they seemed very understaffed. But otherwise great experience, I will definitely be back.
(5)
Ralphie M.
Great upper casual atmosphere with relaxed dining. Excellent service and authentic Italian food.
(5)
Wendy S.
I had been at the old location many years ago, loved it, and when we were in the area and saw the new location, we decided to go again. We did not have a reservation on a friday night, so they pressed us to go outside. I was hesitant, but it was beautiful out, so when they said " just check it out.", I am glad we did! Charming covered patio with a big fountain that was not too loud and with t he small white lights everywhere it was charming. Our server was great. Very attentive amd made sure I always had water. That is a pet peeve of mine, so I enjoyed that. The LED menus are fun, as it is dim outside (and inside) so really necessary. The menu was varied, and i ended up with the veal piccata and BF had the Pasta Bolognese. Mine was good. It was a bit salty, and the broccolini sauteed with garlic and olive oil was a bit bitter, but the veal was tender and perfectly cooked. It came with roasted potatoes. A nice meal, but more a $26-27 meal, not $32. BF liked his pasta bolognese, good mix of beef, pork and veal in the sauce. But more of a $21-22 dish than a $24. Side salad was $10, which i think is pretty high for a garden salad. Desserts looked really good,but we passed. I remember it being amazing, and it is still good, but really no different than a lot of other nice Italian restaurants. But the covered pation is beautiful!
(3)
Jim D.
Went there tonight with Master Yelper Marqus R. and as you enter it's like walking into someone's home. The hostess greets you with a smile and escorts you to your table. It is nice and the Restaurant is very confortable,not formal or stuffy. You are handed the menu which is about a ton because the whole menu lights up, something I have never seen. I had the scallops which were good, and a shrimp appetizer also very good. . The service was very fast and Alex was very helpful our waiter. Good food, good drink , and good company. you can't go bad with that combination for the noise well there must have been a lot of New Yorkers there. Last month I ate dinner at John's Pizzeria near Times Square. it was like rush hour at Grand Central Station
(4)
Larry D.
We are on town on business and were informed of this restaurant by some friends. We got there after 9 pm. And they still had some business. The bar was lively and they had a booth in there available. We listened to the live music and had a great dinner. The place has great service and the food was as good as I have had in this town. We will eat here next time in town
(5)
Ashley D.
Try the firecracker shrimp that is on their happy hour menu! They are amazing! My boyfriend loves the king crab legs and I love their steaks with the bourdelais sauce and a side of mushrooms!
(5)
Douglas C.
I have only eaten here a couple of times as there are other on par Italian dining options at similar or lower prices in the Fort Lauderdale area. However, I have been very pleased whenever I dine here. Most recently, I started off with a very tasty caesar salad and then had their rigatoni bolognese, upon the recommendation of our friendly and gregarious waiter. The rigatoni was cooked al dente and the meat sauce, consisting of a mixture of veal, pork and beef was sweet, low on acidity and was a comforting and fulfilling dish. Portions are large here. On a previous occasion I had the linguine with white clam sauce. It was chock full of clams and memorably good. The restaurant is very comfortable with a large bar, booths and tables throughout. Lifting the menu is a workout since they are back lit which is pretty entertaining when you are not suspecting it (sorry I ruined the surprise). Dining companions I was with mentioned they too really enjoyed their meal, especially a snapper special which did look very good indeed. For dessert, the chocolate cake/souffle was light, fluffy, rich and delicious. I like Bistro Mezzaluna and if it were a little less expensive I would eat there more often. However, it is nice for a special occasion and quality Italian food.
(3)
Frank D.
TIRAMISU is as good as it gets - period after a show at the broward center for the performing arts this past sunday the early evening lounge here was surprisingly active - i was actually expecting an empty restaurant since it isn't yet season the point of my visit was to have a night-cap (DRAMBUIE) and discuss the performance (LAST CALL with terri girvens) and also to show my daughter the light-up menus plus have dessert (TIRAMISU) i cannot tell you what else they offer BUT to come only for dessert is worth the trip
(5)
Elliott L.
Excellent decor, food and service. The light up menus were cute. We got the sesame crusted sear tuna and sea bass....both dishes were so fresh and perfectly seasoned. The apple pie was suggested for 2, it could have handled 4 so worth the price. No wait considering it was prime time on a Saturday night. I would revisit this place anytime I am in town.
(5)
stephanie f.
I've lived in Fort Lauderdale for over 3 years, and have frequented many restaurants but somehow never made it to Bistro M. Right on 17th street, I can't even tell you how many times i drove by it unsuspecting. From the outside it looks like a regular, run of the mill, family italian restaurant in a shopping plaza. Looks can be deceiving. Inside, are plenty of awards including Zagat, in a small, warm atmosphere. To the left is a nice bar and to the right are the tables. Service was a bit slow, but the food was great. The menu literally lights up upon opening it. Cool, but i would rather save a few dollars on my meal. The menu is small but everything looked good. We were going to order the special, but they came back after they had run out. On to the food Tomato Basil Soup: Thick, creamy goodness with Homemade croutons in the middle. Thumbs Up. Seabass: Nothing beats seabass in my opinion. And this was great. Lemon Swordfish (sorry can't remember the name of it exactly) I think was even better than the Seabass which is hard to do. I can't wait to come back to this little place. I have to make up for the 3 years i didn't see it.
LOVED this place. We live within walking distance and have been waiting for an occasion to try it out. We stopped in on 4th of July before heading out to catch the fireworks. It was empty when we arrived (likely due to the holiday) but we had the back patio to ourselves (and our pup). Service was fantastic- our waiter Alex was great. We ordered the buffalo shrimp to start, which was so outstanding, that my boyfriend ordered a second plate. For our entrees, we chose the lobster humedor special and the yellow snapper. No kidding, the lobster humedor was one of the most exquisite dishes I've ever eaten. Complete with two lobster tails, sauteed spinach, mushrooms, and fresh pasta, I am still dreaming about it.
(5)
Susan J.
Awesome place !! The food is so good it melts in your mouth the staff is awesome . Place is gorgeous ask for Waz !!!
(5)
Kinjal K.
I went to this restaurant for happy hour with my friends. It was fairly crowded when we arrived. We were seated at a long table arrangement next to the bar. The service was a little slow because they only had two people working the bar. One was steadily behind the bar and the other was going to all the tables taking orders. There were way too many people there. She should have had help. I first ordered the meatballs. The portion was small and they lacked in flavor. I was not satisfied and decided to try the baked brie. That was okay, but I was not a fan of the nuts inside. I finally decided to try the Maryland crab cake. That was actually pretty good!! I was not a fan of the basil martini I ordered, and I decided not to order anymore from the bar. All in all, I don't think I'll be returning to this restaurant. The service was too slow, and the food was not worth the prices. Trying all those dishes and not finding one I liked left me craving something simple, like a burger.
(3)
Kerri Y.
Exceptional Dining experience, great place for date night. I went here the suggestion of the hotel and they did not steer me wrong. As other reviews say the restuarnt is clean, classy and just fantastic service. The backlit menus were a great touch. The wine and food are beyond excellent. We started with the Homemade meatballs on suggestion of the waiter and they were scrumptious. We both had steak and both were excellent peices of meat. After dinner we hit the piano bar for some after dinner port. The atmosphere was more casual and the crowd that hung around was on the older side. Overall still great. It was a little pricey- but what you would expect to pay at any higher quality restaurant. I would recommend this place to any one visiting Ft. Lauderdale.
(5)
Joe B.
Top notch ambiance, food and service! Valet or park yourself and walk in from close in front. Italian style seafood and steaks made to perfection. great service and presentation. Real hand drying towels in the bathroom and over the top touch. A couples dream date dinner place for sure.
Sorry, but I felt a bit uncomfortable in this restaurant. It's just too stuffy and full of over-privileged rich folk. Kind of looks like a hotel lobby really. The food is quite expensive, but to their credit it is tasty and fresh. This may be something you do for an anniversary perhaps, but not every day.
(3)
Jesus R.
This place exudes class. It's intimate, with lovely lighting and smooth melodies traveling from the piano bar adding to the charm. The service is impeccable. The waitstaff has the right mix of charm and professionalism. This is the type of place you take your lady to, wine her, dine her, ask the piano player to play a Donnie Hathaway song and slow dance with her as if no one is watching. Of course, everyone will, but that's still what you should do, dammit!
(4)
Dara B.
Off the beaten path of 17th Street Causeway, is this quaint place. Excellent happy hour 4-7pm. The bar area gets packed during those times but lingers away after 7. I highly recommend the baked brie!!!
(5)
Damian R.
I am so disappointed we went to this place when there are so many great places around but I have to say that this is maybe the NASTIEST place I have been in my whole life, and I have been in many. Everything about this place is bad. This is the place for you if you are over 70 years old and you have a nasty attitude towards people around you, then you will fit perfectly in the place. Some of the people working at the bar should be working in a prison instead of doing hospitality. (specially the curly blond older woman) Not to mention the place taking the public parking space that is in front of the building so that way you have to do a ridiculous valet parking. I wonder if this is even legal? This is a great place to take your worst enemy...I mean REALLY!
(1)
Kim B.
My roommate and I went to Bistro Mezzaluna, very nice restaurant. The service was very professional. I tried the Pan Roasted Yellow Tail Snapper and it was delicious. The asparagus was tender and the mozzarella was fresh tasting. The fish, delicate and moist. I would highly recommend this restaurant for a quaint dinning atmosphere.
(5)
Luis M.
This unsuspecting location is one that I've sadly passed by countless times on the way to the beach. A friend tipped me off to Mezzaluna, and I'm for sure coming back. The meals were inexplicably sultry, decadent, passionate. Just sexy. A place like this might get the unlayable laid. And like a high end hooker, it'll cost ya. My gf and I celebrated Valentines Day a week early and I decided, why not go all out? I want to show her I love her, I'll probably even buy her a pepsi. She was pleased. The mood lighting and simple, romantic, decor was just right for the occasion. drink orders were taken, and steamy delicious rolls were served. we couldnt get enough. Ally ordered the salmon (30 bucks) and I ordered the 20 oz ribeye (45). Our meals were promptly served, and we dug in after bouts of beach-induced hunger pangs. My ribeye really hit the spot. I literally said out loud that it was the best cooked piece of meat I had ever had, juicy slobbery, thick and bloody... and that includes counteless rounds at Texas De Brazil. Mashed potatoes were fresh and just like i love them, and I was even more pleased when the waiter brought me the "tobacco onion rings" I had asked about. They were delicious strings of oniony goodness. My girl's salmon was also cooked to perfection. Still moist over fresh arrugula with goat cheese. The service was also phenomenal, very kind, polite, and attentive. And the GF enjoyed her pepsi too.
(4)
Brooke K.
Don't let the location fool you as this restaurant will satisfy the more discerning of palates. Had the pleasure of enjoying the personality and skills of Executive Chef, Brian Rutherford at a local cooking school in town and decided to once again visit the restaurant. We were referred our first time about six months ago, took guests the second time and each visit was totally enjoyable. Ask for "Waz" for your waiter and do try the fabulous bread pudding or flourless chocolate cake for dessert.
(4)
John C.
Bistro Mezzaluna has been around since before 1995 - a lifetime in restaurant years. For a while, it was one of a few "see and be seen" eateries where local movers & shakers would vie for preferred seating. Although that is still somewhat the case, the addition of more options, including Casa D'Angelo, Jacksons and Riley McDermiitt's has made it possible to walk in to Mezzaluna on a Satiurday night without a reservation and be immediately seated, which is exactly what I did last night with three friends. I must say that the service was absolutely impeccable. Our server, Phillip had great suggestions and never made us feel rushed. He timed the courses perfectly and the dishes (sea bass, yellowtail, pasta puttenesca) were evenly good with one exception. The seafood pasta, which the server mentioned was his favorite dish on the menu, consisted of large sea scallops, shrimp, clams and lobster, served over a light, fresh tomato and olive oil sauce and garnished with a large bunch of fresh basil neded the kick provided by the crushed red pepper that the server brought on the side. More importantly, the lobster tail had been previously frozen and was impossible to remove from the shell. When I brought this the the server's attention, he offered to bring a freshly cooked tail, but that also had been previously frozen and stuck to the shell, although somewhat less so. For the price ($39.00) Mezzaluna should be using fresh lobster tail in this dish. The reality is that the dish would have been just as good without the lobster, which didn't contribute much flavor. Other than that one misstep from the kitchen, we thouroughly enjoyed our Saturday night Mezzaluna experience. The restaurant is visually very appealing, with warm natural woods and fabrics, and the lighting is perfect, with pendant lamps lighting the booths and candles on the tables. Competition is good for restaurant patrons, and now that Mezzaluna is not one of the only high-end games in town, they seemed to truly appreciate our business. If you go, ask to be seated at one of Phillip's tables. He is one of the best waiters I have experienced anywhere. Parking note: Mezzaluna is located in a strip mall. Bypass the valet. Self-parking is plentiful in the lot directly in front of the restaurant..
(4)
Alex S.
I've eaten here - and done take out - several times and their pasta is really really good. I usually get the rigatoni bolognese, which is great. A little lighter than a typical bolognese, not creamy, but it's delicious. Their pasta servings are huge. They can seriously feed at leasat two and maybe three people as an entree. They are expensive too. Personally, I'd rather pay half the price for half the food, but at least you'll be left with great leftovers.
(4)
Shelby C.
Wonderful meal! Great service, ambiance, and the food was excellent! The best Chilean sea bass I ever had in my life. We visited late night during the week....off season...so we were seated right away (no reservations) We heard that it can be a long wait at other times. Can't wait to go back!!
(5)
Ashley D.
Try the firecracker shrimp that is on their happy hour menu! They are amazing! My boyfriend loves the king crab legs and I love their steaks with the bourdelais sauce and a side of mushrooms!
(5)
Elizabeth P.
Came here last night for dinner and it was superb! The food was very well prepared and seasoned and our waiter paid very close attention to all the needs of everyone there.
(5)
Heidi M.
First impressions mean everything... The restaurant is very classy and pristine. Low lighting and menus that light up . Dress up or come in slacks and a nice top,just dress classy. Service: 4 table staff. One gave our menus and told us the special. As well as took our orders for drinks and appetizers. Another gave us our bread. Another was our bus boy and a 4th took our main order. I was a bit confused as to who our main waiter was. Unfortunately it was the later who seemed unfriendly, abrupt and would walk away before I could finish my sentence. Rarely smiled and seemed annoyed. Food: You receive a basket of bread and delicious wheat and grain crackers. I ordered the seafood pasta ($39) full of seafood , 1/2 lobster tail, sea scallops, clams, shrimp and calamari all cooked to perfection. BUT the pasta was overcooked. A bit too soft almost mushy. The sauce was delicious. Our other meal was the special, Halibut ($39) in a white mild lemon butter sauce ..absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection. It was offered with risotto but and asparagus. Dessert key lime pie with a raspberry sauce yummy ($10) and I had a glass of Chianti ($10) and a cocktail ($12) I would give the wait staff 5 stars if it were not for the waiter we ended up with and the confusion of who was our waiter. I give 4 stars Food 4 stars due to over cooked pasta, it really should be slightly aldente. Otherwise food was Delicious. Bathrooms 2stars, bring your night goggles. It is so dark in the bathrooms that I barely could see my lips close up to the mirror as I tried to put some lip gloss on. Truthfully with what we pay for dinner they surely can afford a few light fixtures in the ladies room so we can see how we look let alone the soap and faucet. Over all 4 stars... They would have had 5 if not for the pasta and unfriendly waiter. Would I go back. Yes on a special occasion. And would avoid the pasta and that waitor
(4)
Jean F.
Valentine's Day at Mezzaluna was a romantic evening. We sat on the terrace which was lovely and warmed with heated lamps. Maryland crab cakes where delicious. Our server was very helpful explaining the specials. We had prime rib which was cooked to perfection and a very ample portion. My husband loved the yellow snapper, the sauce was rich without being overpowering, tarragon and capers what a great combination. I'm embarrassed to say our plates were practically licked cleaned. The flour less chocolate cake we paired with the coconut sorbet, just yummy! The bill was hefty, but well worth it for an extra special evening.
(5)
Mr. H.
Came in for a quick meal and the food was so delicious and the staff was perfect. I ordered the free range organic chicken with potatoes and salad and I would definitely order that again.!!
(5)
Richard S.
Had dinner here the other night and I realize that now I don't have to leave Ft Lauderdale for really bad pseudo Italian food. I ordered a monstrosity called penne with chicken, sausage, broccoli rabe in some kind of horrid balsamic sauce. The penne was really rigatoni and the overcooked boneless chicken chunks were a challenge to chew. The rest of it looked and tasted awful. I truly regret not sending it back. The service was adequate but I'm not sure who our waiter was as we had several during the course of dinner. It ranged from indifferent to obsequious, but everything came out promptly. That night hasn't changed my opinion that Ft Lauderdale has the most mediocre to terrible, bordering on criminal fraud, overpriced eateries anywhere in South Florida. Broward County food seems to be at best, pizza, burgers, wings, and burritos and not much else unless you want to take a big expensive risk. For good restaurant experience and sophisticated menus, high quality, and professional service, go to Miami, Delray Beach, or Boca. I do.
(1)
Adrianna U.
So.... i don't get to experience restaurants like this often, so is it too hard to expect an extraordinary meal? I guess that was my problem. I expected to be really satisfied and all i got was good, but not great... ya feelz me? I went with a group and sampled many of the appetizers. this included shrimp Spring Rolls, which weren't too bad. I also tried the crab cakes which were pretty tasty. For my meal, i had the Fra Diavolo, but I also got to try the seafood pasta. First off, I couldn't really tell the difference between the two. I understand the Fra is supposed to be spicier, but they seriously tasted like they came from the same sauce. Maybe it's my unsophisticated palete xD Pasta was fine. Not the best thing I tasted, so it was kind of a let down when you're paying almost $40 dollars for it. It didn't have too much sauce and it's flavors weren't too on point. Not terrible, of course, or anything unbearable to eat. Just not even close to the best pasta i've had. Switching subjects, the ambiance is very nice. Inside is like a little mansion/house. Bathrooms are very classy. They had cloth napkins, and I wasn't even sure where to put them when i was done xD We sat on the outside with nice sparkling lights. Makes you feel like your in a European city, until you realize your in a meh area of Ft. Lauderdale.
(3)
Mark S.
Went in for dinner with my family while on vacation. After seated we were greeted by Phil our waiter. He was so knowledgable and passionate about the menu, and his personal favorites. He started us with wine which was very nice. Then to a Wedge salad and a shrimp cocktail with shrimp the size of my hand that was excellent. Our main dishes were Free Range Chicken, veal parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs and I had a Ribeye steak. I have eaten at some of the best steakhouses in NY and this was probably the best ribeye I ever had. For dessert we had Apple crumb, NY cheesecake, flourless chocolate cake and the special berry pie. All were outstanding. The price was not cheap but well worth it for the exquisite meal that we had. Thanks Phil for the great service. Your NY friends. PS the light up menus were awesome
(5)
Gary L.
Great service even right at closing time. Had wedge salad with a great dressing along with special of the day fish. Martinis were mixed to perfection. For those on a budget, go to outback. Four in our party and with tax and tip, tab was $300.00. Will be back!
(5)
Marqus R.
Oh yeah! Now we're talking about a really great place. It's really a class act place. I've been going to Bistro Mezzaluna for a number of years, starting off at their prior location over on 17th Causeway. Now they've moved into what was formerly Rio, a big, sumptuous, elegant facility. They have a beautiful lobby, bar/lounge area, inside dinning room and shaded outside patio with a nice fountain which when seated with older men I tend to avoid because of what seems to be the resultant effects of running water seems to have on their enlarged prostates. Excuse me for pointing that out, but some people really do need to know about that. The service is professional, totally top notch and the food, though somewhat on the pricey sides is top quality, properly prepared, elegantly presented and generally worth it. One thing that they have that most other restaurants do not have is high tech background illuminating menus. So, no matter the lighting and even if you have poor vision, the menus are easily read.
(4)
Bruce K.
I let my friend the Internet millionaire choose and I was sorta hoping that he might spring for the check. Oh well. It was still an absolutely top notch excellent meal. I had a beer in the bar while I waited for my friend to show up. We were then shown to a nice table outside (it was only 75, so it was cool). Another table had the buffalo mozzarella salad and it looked excellent, so I had that to start. A good choice. Some big pieces of fresh beefsteak tomatoes and slices of creamy mozzarella cheese with three big roasted peppers. It was enough for two. For my main, I had the chicken and sausage pasta. Lots of thin sliced pamesan on top, it had an excellent rich flavor and a really yummy brothy sauce mixed through. So much, I ended up taking half of it home to leave room for dessert. A piece of key lime pie. The side was let down a bit here - it was nice and creamy, but it wasn't as tart as I would have liked. The crust was good - I ate all of that and maybe a third of the pie. As Michelle mentions, a great place for a date. Good ambiance and good service and good food. You can skip the valet parking - the lot is plenty big. Note: The map pin is slightly off. East of Federal Highway on 17th Street, turn right (south) onto Tenth Avenue.
(4)
Caitlin I.
The Oysters Rockefeller are on point! They have a frothy creamy heavenly whip on top that will be part of my last meal. I had the Chilean seabass, it was amazing but then again Chilean seabass is always amazing, IMO. Boyfriend had Mahi topped with crabmeat, I think. To be perfectly honest my seabass was my only concern, it was THAT good. The portion was large! I was stuffed, everyone enjoyed their food. Bathrooms had cloth napkins...soooo fancyyyyy. The menus cracked me up, my dad, who is older loved them, it's the only place I haven't seen him turn his phone flashlight on to read the menu (they light up when you open them). Service was great and our waiter had some input on what dishes to try. This place is pricy, I'd only come for a special occasion because I'm a poor twenty-something but it's worth coming at least once!
Still as good as ever with excellent food, atmosphere and service. Loved it. Jerry is an excellent manager as well. Bar hops on weekend evenings.
(5)
Carolyn C.
Loved this place!!! Our meal was extraordinary, service was top notch and the food was so amazing... Our waiter Robert clearly loved his job... His eyes sparkled when he described the specials... He took great care of our crew. Enjoyed the ambiance, the menus even lit up so you could see them! From appetizers, to drinks, main dishes and desserts...they were all great in my book. Not a single complaint from our visit. I would love to visit here again.
(5)
Chuck L.
Would have like to have given them four and one-half stars...so consider this review four and one-half stars! Eight-fifteen reservations for Friday night (my new sweetheart's 60th birthday...and a babe to boot!) Arrived at approximately 7:45PM. Greeted by enthusiastic valet service! Go figure! Not kids, but real valet gentlemen who started off the evening perfectly! Short trip to the front desk, verified reservations and mentioned that we would be sitting at the bar for a cocktail before dinner. "No problem, make sure you enjoy and I'll come and get you later'. No 15 minutes, no 10 minutes, but just 'later'! Perfect. I'm quite comfortable already. By the way, the place is magnificently beautiful. Very friendly bartenders who were clad in nondescript clothing i.e. no uniforms, but rather clothing that suggested I was at someones home for a party. Very comfortable atmosphere! Well stocked bar by the way! About 25 minutes later, a young lady came by to let us know our table was ready if 'we were ready'...Nice! no push no rush....and the place was NOT empty...they didn't have to do this! On the way over to the table the hostess mentioned that she was taking us to a very quiet table where we could converse without yelling at each other....noise level was moderate and conducive to conversation, yet our table was extra special! I mentioned when making reservations that it was a 'special' occasion ....it did not fall on deaf ears! Waiter strolled by about 3 minutes later and in a very friendly fashion asked if our drinks were OK and if we needed refills....would be back to discuss menu...very polite, friendly and good natured! Kudos to him! Waiter returned with our drinks (we asked to have them refreshed) and explained the specials...upon his return, my date needed clarification and was offered such. She decided upon the Maryland crab cakes and I ordered the yellow snapper. A mozzarella caprese appetizer was order and arrived with perfect timing. Excellent cheese...tomatoes were so so, but that seems par for the course as of late. No blame here! Dinner arrived perfectly timed and discretely without fanfare...polite and professional and 'light'...no pretense here...serious yet very friendly! Dinner was good...my date raved about the crab cakes and were everything the waiter claimed....my fish was OK...nothing overly special but NO complaints...when you're in love, food is not going under the microscope although in all seriousness, it was quite good. A shared cheesecake (HUGH slice!) was enjoyed by the both of us.... A trip to the lounge for a last drink and some music. GREAT piano player with a great voice and a great lounge 'repertoire' made a great finale to our evening! The piano player even stopped mid-lyrics to call out 'good night' to us! What a fantastic touch to a great evening! Whenever a special event is taking place in your life, this is the place to celebrate...yet I will return for those 'special' dinners with my 'special' someone in the very near future! Thank you for a great evening not soon forgotten!
(5)
Rocki R.
one of my fav restaurants. Food is always good, Service is always great. When they first moved to the much larger new location i thought they may lose their quality and coziness but they didn't. We usually get the filet and seabass but have tried most everything on the menu and never been disappointed.
(5)
Diana N.
Very classy, almost looks like you re walking into a nice hotel. Unfortunately I ordered a lobster roll which i thought was terrible. I'd like to go back to order a different dish. I feel like this place deserves another try.
(2)
Richard A.
Wonderful food, service and atmosphere. Every year we dine there when visiting Ft Lauderdale. Even though we miss the old location because of its energy and jammed dining atmosphere, the consistant fantastic food makes the more open and elegant new venue make us forget. So many good things. But I love their Caesar, bisque and veal.
(4)
Susan H.
One of the best restaurants around. The food is over the top great, service is phenomenal, atmosphere is good, and one of the best happy hours with half off drinks from 3:-7pm and bites. Both lunch and dinner choices are excellent. For dinner, I had the Lamb, buttermilk potatoes, and asparagus which was delightful. The house Cab wine is good. The bread pudding and apple pie desserts along with cappuccino was outstanding. I highly recommend Bistro Mezzaluna for a 100% guarantee great meal.
(5)
Ziva A.
This place has the best Oyster Happy Hour deal ever! A dozen was only $12- they were a buck each!!! Super fresh and normally double the price. Its a very elegant restaurant that offers a fine dining experience. We sat at the bar and received excellent service from the bartender; she was very sweet and attentive. The shrimp in buffalo sauce was very delicious. This restaurant is pricey but the best time to go is during HH so you get the rocking deal!
(5)
S F.
This is by far the best italian I have had since leaving nj 8 years ago. I started with the arugula salad and then the chicken (left off the sausage) and rigatoni with balsamic. I am not a huge balsamic person but this was delicious!! I will be back!!!!
(5)
Susan E.
Great bar and Happy Hour with piano and terrific appetizers! Restaurant and bar have nice ambience as well as good food. Good place for lunch too!
(4)
narisa s.
This restaurant is amazing. The service is so professional and the ambiance is sophisticated and private. Food is to die for. Reccomend for sure
(5)
Ryan O.
Had an awful experience here a few months back. Live a stones throw away and had never come here. My gf and I met a couple at the Grateful Palate earlier in the evening and they raved about the happy hour here. Considering its a few blocks away we figured we'd give it a quick try. My drink preferences are, many times, classic cocktails and unfortunately it's very hard to find anyone who knows how to properly make them. That being said I am always more than willing to instruct them how to make them. Most take no longer than a martini. So we sit down and I ask her if she knows how to make a sidecar and she says yes. I see her go over to her phone to look it up which I'm fine with... It's only 3 ingredients and it is only to be served up. She served it to me on the rocks. I courteously corrected her and asked her to just strain out the ice and put it in a cocktail glass. A server who was just standing around says, mind you I'm a good 20-25 feet away, "Maybe he should learn how to order his drink!" Holy sweet heavens did that infuriate me!! Another example of the epitome of god awful hospitality workers that are somehow employed in South Florida. Instead of going to a manager I went to speak to the bartender and this server privately to try to resolve the situation. Bartender was pleasant throughout. The server literally laughed in my face. I tried giving her a chance to redeem herself and I'm not standing for anymore of that BS so I asked for the GM and explained what happened. He comped us our drinks, I left the bartender a very generous tip and didn't care to stick around for what was to happen to the server but I sure hope they fired her. I've never been so offended at a restaurant.
(2)
Joshua B.
lobster bisque - awesome. Black grouper n green beans - awesome. Great wine - even better.
(5)
Holly G.
Food is always a winner, bartenders lovely, However why oh why the need for the new larger place.. its lost its ambience, I so miss the other place, this is stark, boring and too much like a cheap banquet hall, the parking lot reminds me of a macaroni grill, when its a class act all the way..i miss the old days
(5)
Darryn T.
Once again, full disclosure, I am a vegetarian (eggs and cheese) and Italian food is a great go to. Normally. Nearly zero choices on the menu. No eggplant parmigiana, nothing. When I told my server I expected more vegetarian selections at an Italian restaurant her response was, "Oh, we are northern Italian." Okay, fair enough. Dark and noisy with the ambiance of, and another reviewer already mentioned it, a hotel lobby. Perhaps the food would have been okay, I'll never know. Good luck.
(2)
Astrid S.
Went there for lunch. The place looks amazing, the decor is beautiful. It's perfect for business lunches as well as date night. I had the Mahi Mahi - one of the best meals I've had in months. Absolutely delicious. The husband had Rigatoni with Bolognese - he loved his dish as well. The only thing, the service was a bit slow, they seemed very understaffed. But otherwise great experience, I will definitely be back.
(5)
Ralphie M.
Great upper casual atmosphere with relaxed dining. Excellent service and authentic Italian food.
(5)
Wendy S.
I had been at the old location many years ago, loved it, and when we were in the area and saw the new location, we decided to go again. We did not have a reservation on a friday night, so they pressed us to go outside. I was hesitant, but it was beautiful out, so when they said " just check it out.", I am glad we did! Charming covered patio with a big fountain that was not too loud and with t he small white lights everywhere it was charming. Our server was great. Very attentive amd made sure I always had water. That is a pet peeve of mine, so I enjoyed that. The LED menus are fun, as it is dim outside (and inside) so really necessary. The menu was varied, and i ended up with the veal piccata and BF had the Pasta Bolognese. Mine was good. It was a bit salty, and the broccolini sauteed with garlic and olive oil was a bit bitter, but the veal was tender and perfectly cooked. It came with roasted potatoes. A nice meal, but more a $26-27 meal, not $32. BF liked his pasta bolognese, good mix of beef, pork and veal in the sauce. But more of a $21-22 dish than a $24. Side salad was $10, which i think is pretty high for a garden salad. Desserts looked really good,but we passed. I remember it being amazing, and it is still good, but really no different than a lot of other nice Italian restaurants. But the covered pation is beautiful!
(3)
Jim D.
Went there tonight with Master Yelper Marqus R. and as you enter it's like walking into someone's home. The hostess greets you with a smile and escorts you to your table. It is nice and the Restaurant is very confortable,not formal or stuffy. You are handed the menu which is about a ton because the whole menu lights up, something I have never seen. I had the scallops which were good, and a shrimp appetizer also very good. . The service was very fast and Alex was very helpful our waiter. Good food, good drink , and good company. you can't go bad with that combination for the noise well there must have been a lot of New Yorkers there. Last month I ate dinner at John's Pizzeria near Times Square. it was like rush hour at Grand Central Station
(4)
Larry D.
We are on town on business and were informed of this restaurant by some friends. We got there after 9 pm. And they still had some business. The bar was lively and they had a booth in there available. We listened to the live music and had a great dinner. The place has great service and the food was as good as I have had in this town. We will eat here next time in town
(5)
Maryann C.
The decor is beautiful, the lighted menus a wonderful idea, our server Waz was amazing...first class! Parts of the food were great...oysters, Caesar salad, flour less chocolate cake (to die for) the fish was good, spinach great a nice meal, yes, pricey. The music after dinner at the bar was the perfect touch to a beautiful anniversary evening.
(4)
S K.
A quiet night for the restaurant on a Sunday at 7:30pm. Exceptional service and four excellent dinners plus appetizers. Great crab cakes, porterhouse, calamari, lobster bisque. All was delicious. Lovely atmosphere.
(5)
Thomas R.
Love this place. Great happy hour love the food. We eat dinner out 7 nights a week and this is one of our favs. Love the oysters and the seafood appetizer salad.
(5)
Umar G.
The food at Mezzaluna can be described as lush. The best ingredients, not too overworked ... cooked just enough to bring out their ... lusciousness. :) We started with the spring rolls and the calamari. The spring rolls were not greasy and had a nice mango salsa accompaniement. The calamari had been coated with a tempura rice batter (I think) and so the breading was airy and crisp and complemented soft chewiness of the rings. Our salad was a caeser with garlic croutons. The lettuce was crisp, the salad was not overly dressed and had generous, thick shavings of a nutty reggiano. My main course was the filet mignon as was my partners. I had mine rare and he had his medium rare. Both came out done to perfection. The sides (usually mushy) were well seasoned and the home fries were crisp chunks of potato elevated to a higher level. Finally we come to the piece de resistance. Ina Garten says everybody remembers dessert and she was spot on in this case. My cheesecake was to die for! The filling was light and airy and not overly sweet. The crust was crisp enough to provide a nice contrast, and if one's bite got too creamy, there was a schmear of raspberry sauce on the plate to provide just enough tart to want to continue eating the cake. All in all Mezzaluna delivers. It seems to be that their credo may be that if you get the best ingredients and treat them just right, they'll treat you right in return. If you have a special night coming up, give this one a try.
(4)
Night Ryder I.
Classy place. Great food. Half pound Bistro Burger looked small but was very filling, sweet roasted pepper relish was delicious. Luv the thin fries. Cool lighted menu. Pamper yourself with a visit to this establishment.
(5)
Diane S.
Went here for our anniversary dinner. We sat at the bar when we first got there and they seemed to have a decent happy hour crowd and drink prices were good. We were seated for dinner and service and food was just mediocre. I ordered the scallops and my bf ordered rack of lamb. Very pricy and we were not impressed.
(3)
Howard N.
They have gotten too big. This was the second year that it wasn't very good. In fact, this year it was terrible. We were a party of eight and after a little over two hours we left after the waiter announced he had forgotten to submit our order. Not good.
(2)
Sarah P.
I like this place, I do. HOWEVER, the food is overpriced for what it is (one colossal shrimp for the shrimp cocktail is $6.75). I don't judge by price alone, but the taste of the food we ordered didn't totally "wow" me. I give the service 5 stars, and the atmosphere and wine menu 4 stars. They have live music (piano and singer) on weekend nights and the bar area is really comfortable in an old school way. It is definitely an older crowd, but not in a creepy meet-market sort of way. It just offers a slower pace for a Friday or Saturday night if that's what you're in the mood for. They serve lunch as well, and have a private room upstairs for corporate or social events. I agree with some of the other reviewers that it's a great "meet the parents" sort of restaurant, and the LED light up menus save my boyfriend the embarrassment of asking to use the Flashlight app on my phone:)
(3)
rachel u.
I've heard Bistro Mezzaluna mentioned many times, and was excited to check it out for myself! I got a one-a-day deal for a $50 for 25. We ordered the arugula salad, simple, but good. I was disappointed by the meatballs, figured a place like Mezzaluna would have out-of-this-world meatballs. They were good, but not amazing. The sauce they were in was delicious though, wish the meatballs had met the perfection of their sauce... For dinner, rack of lamb with mashed potato, sauteed spinach, and roasted tomatoes topped with goat cheese. These tomatoes made the dish, the mild goat cheese with the tomato went perfectly with the perfectly prepared lamb. Chocolate cake was awesome and a scoop of coffee/mocha chip ice cream served on the side was good, too. Good service, although a bit slow, I'm pretty sure he was over compensating for not making us feel rushed. They were booked for 9pm reservations, so we went in at 930.
(4)
Lorraine U.
Wonderful meal there last night. Arugala salad and truffle mac and cheese to die! Will be back.
(5)
Louise H.
I have to admit I wasn't expecting to enjoy Mezzaluna- its in my neighborhood and I've always heard it was for the 40+ crowd and a meat market for Ft. Laud's aging bachelors, however the food was so outstanding that I can ignore it. I went with my family and was very impressed by the huge portions that I feel justify the pricey ticket prices. We had the oysters, which apparently sell for a $1 each during happy hour (we missed it) and a beautiful and entree-sized heirloom salad, which was a tad overdressed. My father had the lobster mac'n'cheese, which is his usual and I was pleasantly surprised at the hugeness of the dish and that it wasn't too rich- I was expecting a little cast iron skillet oozing with fat a la Rok Burger. My stepmother and friend had the seafood pasta which is honestly about 3lbs of spaghetti, biggest scallops I've ever seen, clams, lobster and shrimp- plenty of leftovers for the next week! Trying to keep with my "diet" I had the yellowtail snapper with capers, tomatoes and crab meat and substituted the mashed potatoes for extra asparagus and spinach. Very lovely and light although I felt the crab didn't do anything to the dish. Would definetly go back- lovely evening.
(4)
Brittany M.
No way around it...this place is amazing! Definitely a slightly older crowd (I'm 24 so older than me but not necessarily old old) but that could be because it is very pricey. Portions are huge though and so fresh/delcious. Linguine and clams are out of this world! This is a great place to take your parents when they come in town for a visit. Took mine and my boyfriend's parents and everyone raved the whole time!
Sorry, but I felt a bit uncomfortable in this restaurant. It's just too stuffy and full of over-privileged rich folk. Kind of looks like a hotel lobby really. The food is quite expensive, but to their credit it is tasty and fresh. This may be something you do for an anniversary perhaps, but not every day.
(3)
Adrianna U.
So.... i don't get to experience restaurants like this often, so is it too hard to expect an extraordinary meal? I guess that was my problem. I expected to be really satisfied and all i got was good, but not great... ya feelz me? I went with a group and sampled many of the appetizers. this included shrimp Spring Rolls, which weren't too bad. I also tried the crab cakes which were pretty tasty. For my meal, i had the Fra Diavolo, but I also got to try the seafood pasta. First off, I couldn't really tell the difference between the two. I understand the Fra is supposed to be spicier, but they seriously tasted like they came from the same sauce. Maybe it's my unsophisticated palete xD Pasta was fine. Not the best thing I tasted, so it was kind of a let down when you're paying almost $40 dollars for it. It didn't have too much sauce and it's flavors weren't too on point. Not terrible, of course, or anything unbearable to eat. Just not even close to the best pasta i've had. Switching subjects, the ambiance is very nice. Inside is like a little mansion/house. Bathrooms are very classy. They had cloth napkins, and I wasn't even sure where to put them when i was done xD We sat on the outside with nice sparkling lights. Makes you feel like your in a European city, until you realize your in a meh area of Ft. Lauderdale.
(3)
Marqus R.
Oh yeah! Now we're talking about a really great place. It's really a class act place. I've been going to Bistro Mezzaluna for a number of years, starting off at their prior location over on 17th Causeway. Now they've moved into what was formerly Rio, a big, sumptuous, elegant facility. They have a beautiful lobby, bar/lounge area, inside dinning room and shaded outside patio with a nice fountain which when seated with older men I tend to avoid because of what seems to be the resultant effects of running water seems to have on their enlarged prostates. Excuse me for pointing that out, but some people really do need to know about that. The service is professional, totally top notch and the food, though somewhat on the pricey sides is top quality, properly prepared, elegantly presented and generally worth it. One thing that they have that most other restaurants do not have is high tech background illuminating menus. So, no matter the lighting and even if you have poor vision, the menus are easily read.
(4)
Bruce K.
I let my friend the Internet millionaire choose and I was sorta hoping that he might spring for the check. Oh well. It was still an absolutely top notch excellent meal. I had a beer in the bar while I waited for my friend to show up. We were then shown to a nice table outside (it was only 75, so it was cool). Another table had the buffalo mozzarella salad and it looked excellent, so I had that to start. A good choice. Some big pieces of fresh beefsteak tomatoes and slices of creamy mozzarella cheese with three big roasted peppers. It was enough for two. For my main, I had the chicken and sausage pasta. Lots of thin sliced pamesan on top, it had an excellent rich flavor and a really yummy brothy sauce mixed through. So much, I ended up taking half of it home to leave room for dessert. A piece of key lime pie. The side was let down a bit here - it was nice and creamy, but it wasn't as tart as I would have liked. The crust was good - I ate all of that and maybe a third of the pie. As Michelle mentions, a great place for a date. Good ambiance and good service and good food. You can skip the valet parking - the lot is plenty big. Note: The map pin is slightly off. East of Federal Highway on 17th Street, turn right (south) onto Tenth Avenue.
(4)
Astrid S.
Went there for lunch. The place looks amazing, the decor is beautiful. It's perfect for business lunches as well as date night. I had the Mahi Mahi - one of the best meals I've had in months. Absolutely delicious. The husband had Rigatoni with Bolognese - he loved his dish as well. The only thing, the service was a bit slow, they seemed very understaffed. But otherwise great experience, I will definitely be back.
(5)
Ralphie M.
Great upper casual atmosphere with relaxed dining. Excellent service and authentic Italian food.
(5)
Susan E.
Great bar and Happy Hour with piano and terrific appetizers! Restaurant and bar have nice ambience as well as good food. Good place for lunch too!
(4)
narisa s.
This restaurant is amazing. The service is so professional and the ambiance is sophisticated and private. Food is to die for. Reccomend for sure
(5)
Wendy S.
I had been at the old location many years ago, loved it, and when we were in the area and saw the new location, we decided to go again. We did not have a reservation on a friday night, so they pressed us to go outside. I was hesitant, but it was beautiful out, so when they said " just check it out.", I am glad we did! Charming covered patio with a big fountain that was not too loud and with t he small white lights everywhere it was charming. Our server was great. Very attentive amd made sure I always had water. That is a pet peeve of mine, so I enjoyed that. The LED menus are fun, as it is dim outside (and inside) so really necessary. The menu was varied, and i ended up with the veal piccata and BF had the Pasta Bolognese. Mine was good. It was a bit salty, and the broccolini sauteed with garlic and olive oil was a bit bitter, but the veal was tender and perfectly cooked. It came with roasted potatoes. A nice meal, but more a $26-27 meal, not $32. BF liked his pasta bolognese, good mix of beef, pork and veal in the sauce. But more of a $21-22 dish than a $24. Side salad was $10, which i think is pretty high for a garden salad. Desserts looked really good,but we passed. I remember it being amazing, and it is still good, but really no different than a lot of other nice Italian restaurants. But the covered pation is beautiful!
(3)
Jim D.
Went there tonight with Master Yelper Marqus R. and as you enter it's like walking into someone's home. The hostess greets you with a smile and escorts you to your table. It is nice and the Restaurant is very confortable,not formal or stuffy. You are handed the menu which is about a ton because the whole menu lights up, something I have never seen. I had the scallops which were good, and a shrimp appetizer also very good. . The service was very fast and Alex was very helpful our waiter. Good food, good drink , and good company. you can't go bad with that combination for the noise well there must have been a lot of New Yorkers there. Last month I ate dinner at John's Pizzeria near Times Square. it was like rush hour at Grand Central Station
(4)
Larry D.
We are on town on business and were informed of this restaurant by some friends. We got there after 9 pm. And they still had some business. The bar was lively and they had a booth in there available. We listened to the live music and had a great dinner. The place has great service and the food was as good as I have had in this town. We will eat here next time in town
(5)
Darryn T.
Once again, full disclosure, I am a vegetarian (eggs and cheese) and Italian food is a great go to. Normally. Nearly zero choices on the menu. No eggplant parmigiana, nothing. When I told my server I expected more vegetarian selections at an Italian restaurant her response was, "Oh, we are northern Italian." Okay, fair enough. Dark and noisy with the ambiance of, and another reviewer already mentioned it, a hotel lobby. Perhaps the food would have been okay, I'll never know. Good luck.
(2)
John C.
Bistro Mezzaluna has been around since before 1995 - a lifetime in restaurant years. For a while, it was one of a few "see and be seen" eateries where local movers & shakers would vie for preferred seating. Although that is still somewhat the case, the addition of more options, including Casa D'Angelo, Jacksons and Riley McDermiitt's has made it possible to walk in to Mezzaluna on a Satiurday night without a reservation and be immediately seated, which is exactly what I did last night with three friends. I must say that the service was absolutely impeccable. Our server, Phillip had great suggestions and never made us feel rushed. He timed the courses perfectly and the dishes (sea bass, yellowtail, pasta puttenesca) were evenly good with one exception. The seafood pasta, which the server mentioned was his favorite dish on the menu, consisted of large sea scallops, shrimp, clams and lobster, served over a light, fresh tomato and olive oil sauce and garnished with a large bunch of fresh basil neded the kick provided by the crushed red pepper that the server brought on the side. More importantly, the lobster tail had been previously frozen and was impossible to remove from the shell. When I brought this the the server's attention, he offered to bring a freshly cooked tail, but that also had been previously frozen and stuck to the shell, although somewhat less so. For the price ($39.00) Mezzaluna should be using fresh lobster tail in this dish. The reality is that the dish would have been just as good without the lobster, which didn't contribute much flavor. Other than that one misstep from the kitchen, we thouroughly enjoyed our Saturday night Mezzaluna experience. The restaurant is visually very appealing, with warm natural woods and fabrics, and the lighting is perfect, with pendant lamps lighting the booths and candles on the tables. Competition is good for restaurant patrons, and now that Mezzaluna is not one of the only high-end games in town, they seemed to truly appreciate our business. If you go, ask to be seated at one of Phillip's tables. He is one of the best waiters I have experienced anywhere. Parking note: Mezzaluna is located in a strip mall. Bypass the valet. Self-parking is plentiful in the lot directly in front of the restaurant..
(4)
Alex S.
I've eaten here - and done take out - several times and their pasta is really really good. I usually get the rigatoni bolognese, which is great. A little lighter than a typical bolognese, not creamy, but it's delicious. Their pasta servings are huge. They can seriously feed at leasat two and maybe three people as an entree. They are expensive too. Personally, I'd rather pay half the price for half the food, but at least you'll be left with great leftovers.
(4)
Shelby C.
Wonderful meal! Great service, ambiance, and the food was excellent! The best Chilean sea bass I ever had in my life. We visited late night during the week....off season...so we were seated right away (no reservations) We heard that it can be a long wait at other times. Can't wait to go back!!
(5)
Ashley D.
Try the firecracker shrimp that is on their happy hour menu! They are amazing! My boyfriend loves the king crab legs and I love their steaks with the bourdelais sauce and a side of mushrooms!
(5)
Rocki R.
one of my fav restaurants. Food is always good, Service is always great. When they first moved to the much larger new location i thought they may lose their quality and coziness but they didn't. We usually get the filet and seabass but have tried most everything on the menu and never been disappointed.
(5)
Elizabeth P.
Came here last night for dinner and it was superb! The food was very well prepared and seasoned and our waiter paid very close attention to all the needs of everyone there.
(5)
Courtney C.
LOVED this place. We live within walking distance and have been waiting for an occasion to try it out. We stopped in on 4th of July before heading out to catch the fireworks. It was empty when we arrived (likely due to the holiday) but we had the back patio to ourselves (and our pup). Service was fantastic- our waiter Alex was great. We ordered the buffalo shrimp to start, which was so outstanding, that my boyfriend ordered a second plate. For our entrees, we chose the lobster humedor special and the yellow snapper. No kidding, the lobster humedor was one of the most exquisite dishes I've ever eaten. Complete with two lobster tails, sauteed spinach, mushrooms, and fresh pasta, I am still dreaming about it.
(5)
Susan J.
Awesome place !! The food is so good it melts in your mouth the staff is awesome . Place is gorgeous ask for Waz !!!
(5)
Kinjal K.
I went to this restaurant for happy hour with my friends. It was fairly crowded when we arrived. We were seated at a long table arrangement next to the bar. The service was a little slow because they only had two people working the bar. One was steadily behind the bar and the other was going to all the tables taking orders. There were way too many people there. She should have had help. I first ordered the meatballs. The portion was small and they lacked in flavor. I was not satisfied and decided to try the baked brie. That was okay, but I was not a fan of the nuts inside. I finally decided to try the Maryland crab cake. That was actually pretty good!! I was not a fan of the basil martini I ordered, and I decided not to order anymore from the bar. All in all, I don't think I'll be returning to this restaurant. The service was too slow, and the food was not worth the prices. Trying all those dishes and not finding one I liked left me craving something simple, like a burger.
(3)
Caitlin I.
The Oysters Rockefeller are on point! They have a frothy creamy heavenly whip on top that will be part of my last meal. I had the Chilean seabass, it was amazing but then again Chilean seabass is always amazing, IMO. Boyfriend had Mahi topped with crabmeat, I think. To be perfectly honest my seabass was my only concern, it was THAT good. The portion was large! I was stuffed, everyone enjoyed their food. Bathrooms had cloth napkins...soooo fancyyyyy. The menus cracked me up, my dad, who is older loved them, it's the only place I haven't seen him turn his phone flashlight on to read the menu (they light up when you open them). Service was great and our waiter had some input on what dishes to try. This place is pricy, I'd only come for a special occasion because I'm a poor twenty-something but it's worth coming at least once!
Still as good as ever with excellent food, atmosphere and service. Loved it. Jerry is an excellent manager as well. Bar hops on weekend evenings.
(5)
Kerri Y.
Exceptional Dining experience, great place for date night. I went here the suggestion of the hotel and they did not steer me wrong. As other reviews say the restuarnt is clean, classy and just fantastic service. The backlit menus were a great touch. The wine and food are beyond excellent. We started with the Homemade meatballs on suggestion of the waiter and they were scrumptious. We both had steak and both were excellent peices of meat. After dinner we hit the piano bar for some after dinner port. The atmosphere was more casual and the crowd that hung around was on the older side. Overall still great. It was a little pricey- but what you would expect to pay at any higher quality restaurant. I would recommend this place to any one visiting Ft. Lauderdale.
(5)
Mr. H.
Came in for a quick meal and the food was so delicious and the staff was perfect. I ordered the free range organic chicken with potatoes and salad and I would definitely order that again.!!
(5)
Heidi M.
First impressions mean everything... The restaurant is very classy and pristine. Low lighting and menus that light up . Dress up or come in slacks and a nice top,just dress classy. Service: 4 table staff. One gave our menus and told us the special. As well as took our orders for drinks and appetizers. Another gave us our bread. Another was our bus boy and a 4th took our main order. I was a bit confused as to who our main waiter was. Unfortunately it was the later who seemed unfriendly, abrupt and would walk away before I could finish my sentence. Rarely smiled and seemed annoyed. Food: You receive a basket of bread and delicious wheat and grain crackers. I ordered the seafood pasta ($39) full of seafood , 1/2 lobster tail, sea scallops, clams, shrimp and calamari all cooked to perfection. BUT the pasta was overcooked. A bit too soft almost mushy. The sauce was delicious. Our other meal was the special, Halibut ($39) in a white mild lemon butter sauce ..absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection. It was offered with risotto but and asparagus. Dessert key lime pie with a raspberry sauce yummy ($10) and I had a glass of Chianti ($10) and a cocktail ($12) I would give the wait staff 5 stars if it were not for the waiter we ended up with and the confusion of who was our waiter. I give 4 stars Food 4 stars due to over cooked pasta, it really should be slightly aldente. Otherwise food was Delicious. Bathrooms 2stars, bring your night goggles. It is so dark in the bathrooms that I barely could see my lips close up to the mirror as I tried to put some lip gloss on. Truthfully with what we pay for dinner they surely can afford a few light fixtures in the ladies room so we can see how we look let alone the soap and faucet. Over all 4 stars... They would have had 5 if not for the pasta and unfriendly waiter. Would I go back. Yes on a special occasion. And would avoid the pasta and that waitor
(4)
Jean F.
Valentine's Day at Mezzaluna was a romantic evening. We sat on the terrace which was lovely and warmed with heated lamps. Maryland crab cakes where delicious. Our server was very helpful explaining the specials. We had prime rib which was cooked to perfection and a very ample portion. My husband loved the yellow snapper, the sauce was rich without being overpowering, tarragon and capers what a great combination. I'm embarrassed to say our plates were practically licked cleaned. The flour less chocolate cake we paired with the coconut sorbet, just yummy! The bill was hefty, but well worth it for an extra special evening.
(5)
Joe B.
Top notch ambiance, food and service! Valet or park yourself and walk in from close in front. Italian style seafood and steaks made to perfection. great service and presentation. Real hand drying towels in the bathroom and over the top touch. A couples dream date dinner place for sure.
(5)
Richard A.
Wonderful food, service and atmosphere. Every year we dine there when visiting Ft Lauderdale. Even though we miss the old location because of its energy and jammed dining atmosphere, the consistant fantastic food makes the more open and elegant new venue make us forget. So many good things. But I love their Caesar, bisque and veal.
(4)
Carolyn C.
Loved this place!!! Our meal was extraordinary, service was top notch and the food was so amazing... Our waiter Robert clearly loved his job... His eyes sparkled when he described the specials... He took great care of our crew. Enjoyed the ambiance, the menus even lit up so you could see them! From appetizers, to drinks, main dishes and desserts...they were all great in my book. Not a single complaint from our visit. I would love to visit here again.
(5)
Chuck L.
Would have like to have given them four and one-half stars...so consider this review four and one-half stars! Eight-fifteen reservations for Friday night (my new sweetheart's 60th birthday...and a babe to boot!) Arrived at approximately 7:45PM. Greeted by enthusiastic valet service! Go figure! Not kids, but real valet gentlemen who started off the evening perfectly! Short trip to the front desk, verified reservations and mentioned that we would be sitting at the bar for a cocktail before dinner. "No problem, make sure you enjoy and I'll come and get you later'. No 15 minutes, no 10 minutes, but just 'later'! Perfect. I'm quite comfortable already. By the way, the place is magnificently beautiful. Very friendly bartenders who were clad in nondescript clothing i.e. no uniforms, but rather clothing that suggested I was at someones home for a party. Very comfortable atmosphere! Well stocked bar by the way! About 25 minutes later, a young lady came by to let us know our table was ready if 'we were ready'...Nice! no push no rush....and the place was NOT empty...they didn't have to do this! On the way over to the table the hostess mentioned that she was taking us to a very quiet table where we could converse without yelling at each other....noise level was moderate and conducive to conversation, yet our table was extra special! I mentioned when making reservations that it was a 'special' occasion ....it did not fall on deaf ears! Waiter strolled by about 3 minutes later and in a very friendly fashion asked if our drinks were OK and if we needed refills....would be back to discuss menu...very polite, friendly and good natured! Kudos to him! Waiter returned with our drinks (we asked to have them refreshed) and explained the specials...upon his return, my date needed clarification and was offered such. She decided upon the Maryland crab cakes and I ordered the yellow snapper. A mozzarella caprese appetizer was order and arrived with perfect timing. Excellent cheese...tomatoes were so so, but that seems par for the course as of late. No blame here! Dinner arrived perfectly timed and discretely without fanfare...polite and professional and 'light'...no pretense here...serious yet very friendly! Dinner was good...my date raved about the crab cakes and were everything the waiter claimed....my fish was OK...nothing overly special but NO complaints...when you're in love, food is not going under the microscope although in all seriousness, it was quite good. A shared cheesecake (HUGH slice!) was enjoyed by the both of us.... A trip to the lounge for a last drink and some music. GREAT piano player with a great voice and a great lounge 'repertoire' made a great finale to our evening! The piano player even stopped mid-lyrics to call out 'good night' to us! What a fantastic touch to a great evening! Whenever a special event is taking place in your life, this is the place to celebrate...yet I will return for those 'special' dinners with my 'special' someone in the very near future! Thank you for a great evening not soon forgotten!
(5)
Jesus R.
This place exudes class. It's intimate, with lovely lighting and smooth melodies traveling from the piano bar adding to the charm. The service is impeccable. The waitstaff has the right mix of charm and professionalism. This is the type of place you take your lady to, wine her, dine her, ask the piano player to play a Donnie Hathaway song and slow dance with her as if no one is watching. Of course, everyone will, but that's still what you should do, dammit!
(4)
Dara B.
Off the beaten path of 17th Street Causeway, is this quaint place. Excellent happy hour 4-7pm. The bar area gets packed during those times but lingers away after 7. I highly recommend the baked brie!!!
(5)
Mark S.
Went in for dinner with my family while on vacation. After seated we were greeted by Phil our waiter. He was so knowledgable and passionate about the menu, and his personal favorites. He started us with wine which was very nice. Then to a Wedge salad and a shrimp cocktail with shrimp the size of my hand that was excellent. Our main dishes were Free Range Chicken, veal parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs and I had a Ribeye steak. I have eaten at some of the best steakhouses in NY and this was probably the best ribeye I ever had. For dessert we had Apple crumb, NY cheesecake, flourless chocolate cake and the special berry pie. All were outstanding. The price was not cheap but well worth it for the exquisite meal that we had. Thanks Phil for the great service. Your NY friends. PS the light up menus were awesome
(5)
Gary L.
Great service even right at closing time. Had wedge salad with a great dressing along with special of the day fish. Martinis were mixed to perfection. For those on a budget, go to outback. Four in our party and with tax and tip, tab was $300.00. Will be back!
(5)
Diana N.
Very classy, almost looks like you re walking into a nice hotel. Unfortunately I ordered a lobster roll which i thought was terrible. I'd like to go back to order a different dish. I feel like this place deserves another try.
(2)
Susan H.
One of the best restaurants around. The food is over the top great, service is phenomenal, atmosphere is good, and one of the best happy hours with half off drinks from 3:-7pm and bites. Both lunch and dinner choices are excellent. For dinner, I had the Lamb, buttermilk potatoes, and asparagus which was delightful. The house Cab wine is good. The bread pudding and apple pie desserts along with cappuccino was outstanding. I highly recommend Bistro Mezzaluna for a 100% guarantee great meal.
(5)
Ziva A.
This place has the best Oyster Happy Hour deal ever! A dozen was only $12- they were a buck each!!! Super fresh and normally double the price. Its a very elegant restaurant that offers a fine dining experience. We sat at the bar and received excellent service from the bartender; she was very sweet and attentive. The shrimp in buffalo sauce was very delicious. This restaurant is pricey but the best time to go is during HH so you get the rocking deal!
(5)
S F.
This is by far the best italian I have had since leaving nj 8 years ago. I started with the arugula salad and then the chicken (left off the sausage) and rigatoni with balsamic. I am not a huge balsamic person but this was delicious!! I will be back!!!!
(5)
Ryan O.
Had an awful experience here a few months back. Live a stones throw away and had never come here. My gf and I met a couple at the Grateful Palate earlier in the evening and they raved about the happy hour here. Considering its a few blocks away we figured we'd give it a quick try. My drink preferences are, many times, classic cocktails and unfortunately it's very hard to find anyone who knows how to properly make them. That being said I am always more than willing to instruct them how to make them. Most take no longer than a martini. So we sit down and I ask her if she knows how to make a sidecar and she says yes. I see her go over to her phone to look it up which I'm fine with... It's only 3 ingredients and it is only to be served up. She served it to me on the rocks. I courteously corrected her and asked her to just strain out the ice and put it in a cocktail glass. A server who was just standing around says, mind you I'm a good 20-25 feet away, "Maybe he should learn how to order his drink!" Holy sweet heavens did that infuriate me!! Another example of the epitome of god awful hospitality workers that are somehow employed in South Florida. Instead of going to a manager I went to speak to the bartender and this server privately to try to resolve the situation. Bartender was pleasant throughout. The server literally laughed in my face. I tried giving her a chance to redeem herself and I'm not standing for anymore of that BS so I asked for the GM and explained what happened. He comped us our drinks, I left the bartender a very generous tip and didn't care to stick around for what was to happen to the server but I sure hope they fired her. I've never been so offended at a restaurant.
(2)
Joshua B.
lobster bisque - awesome. Black grouper n green beans - awesome. Great wine - even better.
(5)
Holly G.
Food is always a winner, bartenders lovely, However why oh why the need for the new larger place.. its lost its ambience, I so miss the other place, this is stark, boring and too much like a cheap banquet hall, the parking lot reminds me of a macaroni grill, when its a class act all the way..i miss the old days
(5)
Maryann C.
The decor is beautiful, the lighted menus a wonderful idea, our server Waz was amazing...first class! Parts of the food were great...oysters, Caesar salad, flour less chocolate cake (to die for) the fish was good, spinach great a nice meal, yes, pricey. The music after dinner at the bar was the perfect touch to a beautiful anniversary evening.
(4)
S K.
A quiet night for the restaurant on a Sunday at 7:30pm. Exceptional service and four excellent dinners plus appetizers. Great crab cakes, porterhouse, calamari, lobster bisque. All was delicious. Lovely atmosphere.
(5)
Thomas R.
Love this place. Great happy hour love the food. We eat dinner out 7 nights a week and this is one of our favs. Love the oysters and the seafood appetizer salad.
(5)
Umar G.
The food at Mezzaluna can be described as lush. The best ingredients, not too overworked ... cooked just enough to bring out their ... lusciousness. :) We started with the spring rolls and the calamari. The spring rolls were not greasy and had a nice mango salsa accompaniement. The calamari had been coated with a tempura rice batter (I think) and so the breading was airy and crisp and complemented soft chewiness of the rings. Our salad was a caeser with garlic croutons. The lettuce was crisp, the salad was not overly dressed and had generous, thick shavings of a nutty reggiano. My main course was the filet mignon as was my partners. I had mine rare and he had his medium rare. Both came out done to perfection. The sides (usually mushy) were well seasoned and the home fries were crisp chunks of potato elevated to a higher level. Finally we come to the piece de resistance. Ina Garten says everybody remembers dessert and she was spot on in this case. My cheesecake was to die for! The filling was light and airy and not overly sweet. The crust was crisp enough to provide a nice contrast, and if one's bite got too creamy, there was a schmear of raspberry sauce on the plate to provide just enough tart to want to continue eating the cake. All in all Mezzaluna delivers. It seems to be that their credo may be that if you get the best ingredients and treat them just right, they'll treat you right in return. If you have a special night coming up, give this one a try.
(4)
Night Ryder I.
Classy place. Great food. Half pound Bistro Burger looked small but was very filling, sweet roasted pepper relish was delicious. Luv the thin fries. Cool lighted menu. Pamper yourself with a visit to this establishment.
(5)
Diane S.
Went here for our anniversary dinner. We sat at the bar when we first got there and they seemed to have a decent happy hour crowd and drink prices were good. We were seated for dinner and service and food was just mediocre. I ordered the scallops and my bf ordered rack of lamb. Very pricy and we were not impressed.
(3)
Howard N.
They have gotten too big. This was the second year that it wasn't very good. In fact, this year it was terrible. We were a party of eight and after a little over two hours we left after the waiter announced he had forgotten to submit our order. Not good.
(2)
Sarah P.
I like this place, I do. HOWEVER, the food is overpriced for what it is (one colossal shrimp for the shrimp cocktail is $6.75). I don't judge by price alone, but the taste of the food we ordered didn't totally "wow" me. I give the service 5 stars, and the atmosphere and wine menu 4 stars. They have live music (piano and singer) on weekend nights and the bar area is really comfortable in an old school way. It is definitely an older crowd, but not in a creepy meet-market sort of way. It just offers a slower pace for a Friday or Saturday night if that's what you're in the mood for. They serve lunch as well, and have a private room upstairs for corporate or social events. I agree with some of the other reviewers that it's a great "meet the parents" sort of restaurant, and the LED light up menus save my boyfriend the embarrassment of asking to use the Flashlight app on my phone:)
(3)
rachel u.
I've heard Bistro Mezzaluna mentioned many times, and was excited to check it out for myself! I got a one-a-day deal for a $50 for 25. We ordered the arugula salad, simple, but good. I was disappointed by the meatballs, figured a place like Mezzaluna would have out-of-this-world meatballs. They were good, but not amazing. The sauce they were in was delicious though, wish the meatballs had met the perfection of their sauce... For dinner, rack of lamb with mashed potato, sauteed spinach, and roasted tomatoes topped with goat cheese. These tomatoes made the dish, the mild goat cheese with the tomato went perfectly with the perfectly prepared lamb. Chocolate cake was awesome and a scoop of coffee/mocha chip ice cream served on the side was good, too. Good service, although a bit slow, I'm pretty sure he was over compensating for not making us feel rushed. They were booked for 9pm reservations, so we went in at 930.
(4)
Lorraine U.
Wonderful meal there last night. Arugala salad and truffle mac and cheese to die! Will be back.
(5)
Frank D.
TIRAMISU is as good as it gets - period after a show at the broward center for the performing arts this past sunday the early evening lounge here was surprisingly active - i was actually expecting an empty restaurant since it isn't yet season the point of my visit was to have a night-cap (DRAMBUIE) and discuss the performance (LAST CALL with terri girvens) and also to show my daughter the light-up menus plus have dessert (TIRAMISU) i cannot tell you what else they offer BUT to come only for dessert is worth the trip
(5)
Elliott L.
Excellent decor, food and service. The light up menus were cute. We got the sesame crusted sear tuna and sea bass....both dishes were so fresh and perfectly seasoned. The apple pie was suggested for 2, it could have handled 4 so worth the price. No wait considering it was prime time on a Saturday night. I would revisit this place anytime I am in town.
(5)
Louise H.
I have to admit I wasn't expecting to enjoy Mezzaluna- its in my neighborhood and I've always heard it was for the 40+ crowd and a meat market for Ft. Laud's aging bachelors, however the food was so outstanding that I can ignore it. I went with my family and was very impressed by the huge portions that I feel justify the pricey ticket prices. We had the oysters, which apparently sell for a $1 each during happy hour (we missed it) and a beautiful and entree-sized heirloom salad, which was a tad overdressed. My father had the lobster mac'n'cheese, which is his usual and I was pleasantly surprised at the hugeness of the dish and that it wasn't too rich- I was expecting a little cast iron skillet oozing with fat a la Rok Burger. My stepmother and friend had the seafood pasta which is honestly about 3lbs of spaghetti, biggest scallops I've ever seen, clams, lobster and shrimp- plenty of leftovers for the next week! Trying to keep with my "diet" I had the yellowtail snapper with capers, tomatoes and crab meat and substituted the mashed potatoes for extra asparagus and spinach. Very lovely and light although I felt the crab didn't do anything to the dish. Would definetly go back- lovely evening.
(4)
Brittany M.
No way around it...this place is amazing! Definitely a slightly older crowd (I'm 24 so older than me but not necessarily old old) but that could be because it is very pricey. Portions are huge though and so fresh/delcious. Linguine and clams are out of this world! This is a great place to take your parents when they come in town for a visit. Took mine and my boyfriend's parents and everyone raved the whole time!
(5)
Douglas C.
I have only eaten here a couple of times as there are other on par Italian dining options at similar or lower prices in the Fort Lauderdale area. However, I have been very pleased whenever I dine here. Most recently, I started off with a very tasty caesar salad and then had their rigatoni bolognese, upon the recommendation of our friendly and gregarious waiter. The rigatoni was cooked al dente and the meat sauce, consisting of a mixture of veal, pork and beef was sweet, low on acidity and was a comforting and fulfilling dish. Portions are large here. On a previous occasion I had the linguine with white clam sauce. It was chock full of clams and memorably good. The restaurant is very comfortable with a large bar, booths and tables throughout. Lifting the menu is a workout since they are back lit which is pretty entertaining when you are not suspecting it (sorry I ruined the surprise). Dining companions I was with mentioned they too really enjoyed their meal, especially a snapper special which did look very good indeed. For dessert, the chocolate cake/souffle was light, fluffy, rich and delicious. I like Bistro Mezzaluna and if it were a little less expensive I would eat there more often. However, it is nice for a special occasion and quality Italian food.
(3)
stephanie f.
I've lived in Fort Lauderdale for over 3 years, and have frequented many restaurants but somehow never made it to Bistro M. Right on 17th street, I can't even tell you how many times i drove by it unsuspecting. From the outside it looks like a regular, run of the mill, family italian restaurant in a shopping plaza. Looks can be deceiving. Inside, are plenty of awards including Zagat, in a small, warm atmosphere. To the left is a nice bar and to the right are the tables. Service was a bit slow, but the food was great. The menu literally lights up upon opening it. Cool, but i would rather save a few dollars on my meal. The menu is small but everything looked good. We were going to order the special, but they came back after they had run out. On to the food Tomato Basil Soup: Thick, creamy goodness with Homemade croutons in the middle. Thumbs Up. Seabass: Nothing beats seabass in my opinion. And this was great. Lemon Swordfish (sorry can't remember the name of it exactly) I think was even better than the Seabass which is hard to do. I can't wait to come back to this little place. I have to make up for the 3 years i didn't see it.
(4)
Richard S.
Had dinner here the other night and I realize that now I don't have to leave Ft Lauderdale for really bad pseudo Italian food. I ordered a monstrosity called penne with chicken, sausage, broccoli rabe in some kind of horrid balsamic sauce. The penne was really rigatoni and the overcooked boneless chicken chunks were a challenge to chew. The rest of it looked and tasted awful. I truly regret not sending it back. The service was adequate but I'm not sure who our waiter was as we had several during the course of dinner. It ranged from indifferent to obsequious, but everything came out promptly. That night hasn't changed my opinion that Ft Lauderdale has the most mediocre to terrible, bordering on criminal fraud, overpriced eateries anywhere in South Florida. Broward County food seems to be at best, pizza, burgers, wings, and burritos and not much else unless you want to take a big expensive risk. For good restaurant experience and sophisticated menus, high quality, and professional service, go to Miami, Delray Beach, or Boca. I do.
I am so disappointed we went to this place when there are so many great places around but I have to say that this is maybe the NASTIEST place I have been in my whole life, and I have been in many. Everything about this place is bad. This is the place for you if you are over 70 years old and you have a nasty attitude towards people around you, then you will fit perfectly in the place. Some of the people working at the bar should be working in a prison instead of doing hospitality. (specially the curly blond older woman) Not to mention the place taking the public parking space that is in front of the building so that way you have to do a ridiculous valet parking. I wonder if this is even legal? This is a great place to take your worst enemy...I mean REALLY!
(1)
Kim B.
My roommate and I went to Bistro Mezzaluna, very nice restaurant. The service was very professional. I tried the Pan Roasted Yellow Tail Snapper and it was delicious. The asparagus was tender and the mozzarella was fresh tasting. The fish, delicate and moist. I would highly recommend this restaurant for a quaint dinning atmosphere.
(5)
Mike W.
Great food great service! Love the new location.
(5)
Luis M.
This unsuspecting location is one that I've sadly passed by countless times on the way to the beach. A friend tipped me off to Mezzaluna, and I'm for sure coming back. The meals were inexplicably sultry, decadent, passionate. Just sexy. A place like this might get the unlayable laid. And like a high end hooker, it'll cost ya. My gf and I celebrated Valentines Day a week early and I decided, why not go all out? I want to show her I love her, I'll probably even buy her a pepsi. She was pleased. The mood lighting and simple, romantic, decor was just right for the occasion. drink orders were taken, and steamy delicious rolls were served. we couldnt get enough. Ally ordered the salmon (30 bucks) and I ordered the 20 oz ribeye (45). Our meals were promptly served, and we dug in after bouts of beach-induced hunger pangs. My ribeye really hit the spot. I literally said out loud that it was the best cooked piece of meat I had ever had, juicy slobbery, thick and bloody... and that includes counteless rounds at Texas De Brazil. Mashed potatoes were fresh and just like i love them, and I was even more pleased when the waiter brought me the "tobacco onion rings" I had asked about. They were delicious strings of oniony goodness. My girl's salmon was also cooked to perfection. Still moist over fresh arrugula with goat cheese. The service was also phenomenal, very kind, polite, and attentive. And the GF enjoyed her pepsi too.
(4)
Brooke K.
Don't let the location fool you as this restaurant will satisfy the more discerning of palates. Had the pleasure of enjoying the personality and skills of Executive Chef, Brian Rutherford at a local cooking school in town and decided to once again visit the restaurant. We were referred our first time about six months ago, took guests the second time and each visit was totally enjoyable. Ask for "Waz" for your waiter and do try the fabulous bread pudding or flourless chocolate cake for dessert.
(4)
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Address :1821 SE 10th Ave
Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Dressy Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
Susan H.
One of the best restaurants around. The food is over the top great, service is phenomenal, atmosphere is good, and one of the best happy hours with half off drinks from 3:-7pm and bites. Both lunch and dinner choices are excellent. For dinner, I had the Lamb, buttermilk potatoes, and asparagus which was delightful. The house Cab wine is good. The bread pudding and apple pie desserts along with cappuccino was outstanding. I highly recommend Bistro Mezzaluna for a 100% guarantee great meal.
(5)S F.
This is by far the best italian I have had since leaving nj 8 years ago. I started with the arugula salad and then the chicken (left off the sausage) and rigatoni with balsamic. I am not a huge balsamic person but this was delicious!! I will be back!!!!
(5)Ryan O.
Had an awful experience here a few months back. Live a stones throw away and had never come here. My gf and I met a couple at the Grateful Palate earlier in the evening and they raved about the happy hour here. Considering its a few blocks away we figured we'd give it a quick try. My drink preferences are, many times, classic cocktails and unfortunately it's very hard to find anyone who knows how to properly make them. That being said I am always more than willing to instruct them how to make them. Most take no longer than a martini. So we sit down and I ask her if she knows how to make a sidecar and she says yes. I see her go over to her phone to look it up which I'm fine with... It's only 3 ingredients and it is only to be served up. She served it to me on the rocks. I courteously corrected her and asked her to just strain out the ice and put it in a cocktail glass. A server who was just standing around says, mind you I'm a good 20-25 feet away, "Maybe he should learn how to order his drink!" Holy sweet heavens did that infuriate me!! Another example of the epitome of god awful hospitality workers that are somehow employed in South Florida. Instead of going to a manager I went to speak to the bartender and this server privately to try to resolve the situation. Bartender was pleasant throughout. The server literally laughed in my face. I tried giving her a chance to redeem herself and I'm not standing for anymore of that BS so I asked for the GM and explained what happened. He comped us our drinks, I left the bartender a very generous tip and didn't care to stick around for what was to happen to the server but I sure hope they fired her. I've never been so offended at a restaurant.
(2)Joshua B.
lobster bisque - awesome. Black grouper n green beans - awesome. Great wine - even better.
(5)Holly G.
Food is always a winner, bartenders lovely, However why oh why the need for the new larger place.. its lost its ambience, I so miss the other place, this is stark, boring and too much like a cheap banquet hall, the parking lot reminds me of a macaroni grill, when its a class act all the way..i miss the old days
(5)Elizabeth P.
Came here last night for dinner and it was superb! The food was very well prepared and seasoned and our waiter paid very close attention to all the needs of everyone there.
(5)Ziva A.
This place has the best Oyster Happy Hour deal ever! A dozen was only $12- they were a buck each!!! Super fresh and normally double the price. Its a very elegant restaurant that offers a fine dining experience. We sat at the bar and received excellent service from the bartender; she was very sweet and attentive. The shrimp in buffalo sauce was very delicious. This restaurant is pricey but the best time to go is during HH so you get the rocking deal!
(5)Courtney C.
LOVED this place. We live within walking distance and have been waiting for an occasion to try it out. We stopped in on 4th of July before heading out to catch the fireworks. It was empty when we arrived (likely due to the holiday) but we had the back patio to ourselves (and our pup). Service was fantastic- our waiter Alex was great. We ordered the buffalo shrimp to start, which was so outstanding, that my boyfriend ordered a second plate. For our entrees, we chose the lobster humedor special and the yellow snapper. No kidding, the lobster humedor was one of the most exquisite dishes I've ever eaten. Complete with two lobster tails, sauteed spinach, mushrooms, and fresh pasta, I am still dreaming about it.
(5)Susan J.
Awesome place !! The food is so good it melts in your mouth the staff is awesome . Place is gorgeous ask for Waz !!!
(5)Kinjal K.
I went to this restaurant for happy hour with my friends. It was fairly crowded when we arrived. We were seated at a long table arrangement next to the bar. The service was a little slow because they only had two people working the bar. One was steadily behind the bar and the other was going to all the tables taking orders. There were way too many people there. She should have had help. I first ordered the meatballs. The portion was small and they lacked in flavor. I was not satisfied and decided to try the baked brie. That was okay, but I was not a fan of the nuts inside. I finally decided to try the Maryland crab cake. That was actually pretty good!! I was not a fan of the basil martini I ordered, and I decided not to order anymore from the bar. All in all, I don't think I'll be returning to this restaurant. The service was too slow, and the food was not worth the prices. Trying all those dishes and not finding one I liked left me craving something simple, like a burger.
(3)Kerri Y.
Exceptional Dining experience, great place for date night. I went here the suggestion of the hotel and they did not steer me wrong. As other reviews say the restuarnt is clean, classy and just fantastic service. The backlit menus were a great touch. The wine and food are beyond excellent. We started with the Homemade meatballs on suggestion of the waiter and they were scrumptious. We both had steak and both were excellent peices of meat. After dinner we hit the piano bar for some after dinner port. The atmosphere was more casual and the crowd that hung around was on the older side. Overall still great. It was a little pricey- but what you would expect to pay at any higher quality restaurant. I would recommend this place to any one visiting Ft. Lauderdale.
(5)Mr. H.
Came in for a quick meal and the food was so delicious and the staff was perfect. I ordered the free range organic chicken with potatoes and salad and I would definitely order that again.!!
(5)Jo W.
First impressions - a nice restaurant that caters to the sophisticated! Once inside, it was a little dark (considering it was not dark outside yet), but still a pleasant ambiance nonetheless. To compensate for the dark atmosphere, the presented menus light up so that you are able to see it. Thoughtful choice, but did the lighted menus come about as a result of having a poorly lit restaurant, or did they make the restaurant dark because they thought lighted menus would be cool? Regardless, after looking over the menu and struggling to decided what to get, I ceased the day and ordered the Pan Roasted Yellowtail Snapper that comes with a white wine sauces, lump crab, capers and a side of mashed potatoes and sautéed asparagus. White sauces scare me because they just look tasteless but I was pleasantly surprise by a delectable piece of flaky fish and a slightly tangy, but tasty sauce. My fiancé had the Skirt Steak with Arugula Salad, Frites and Chimichurri Sauce, a pretty standard meal in South Florida. The Arugula Salad left something to be desired, but the marvelous steak and accompanying Frites and Chimichurri Sauce more than compensated for that. The steak was a great, tender cut of meat. After having such a satisfying meal, dessert was a no brainer. We took up the offer to try the Chef's Special Chocolate Bread Pudding and it was quite impressive. It was the right consistency, the right amount of sweetness and oh so good. I didn't leave without trying one of their cocktails. At the waiter's suggestion, I tried a Raspberry Mojito. It was strong and fresh. They are known for their Happy Hour, so at the discounted price, it would definitely worth it. The food and drinks was amazing, but it is good to know that service was exceptional as well. We got really lucky and got a very friendly, upbeat server who was not only professional but engaging and equally as wonderful as well. All around dinner was great I would definitely come again.
(4)Morris M.
Sorry, but I felt a bit uncomfortable in this restaurant. It's just too stuffy and full of over-privileged rich folk. Kind of looks like a hotel lobby really. The food is quite expensive, but to their credit it is tasty and fresh. This may be something you do for an anniversary perhaps, but not every day.
(3)Jesus R.
This place exudes class. It's intimate, with lovely lighting and smooth melodies traveling from the piano bar adding to the charm. The service is impeccable. The waitstaff has the right mix of charm and professionalism. This is the type of place you take your lady to, wine her, dine her, ask the piano player to play a Donnie Hathaway song and slow dance with her as if no one is watching. Of course, everyone will, but that's still what you should do, dammit!
(4)Dara B.
Off the beaten path of 17th Street Causeway, is this quaint place. Excellent happy hour 4-7pm. The bar area gets packed during those times but lingers away after 7. I highly recommend the baked brie!!!
(5)Heidi M.
First impressions mean everything... The restaurant is very classy and pristine. Low lighting and menus that light up . Dress up or come in slacks and a nice top,just dress classy. Service: 4 table staff. One gave our menus and told us the special. As well as took our orders for drinks and appetizers. Another gave us our bread. Another was our bus boy and a 4th took our main order. I was a bit confused as to who our main waiter was. Unfortunately it was the later who seemed unfriendly, abrupt and would walk away before I could finish my sentence. Rarely smiled and seemed annoyed. Food: You receive a basket of bread and delicious wheat and grain crackers. I ordered the seafood pasta ($39) full of seafood , 1/2 lobster tail, sea scallops, clams, shrimp and calamari all cooked to perfection. BUT the pasta was overcooked. A bit too soft almost mushy. The sauce was delicious. Our other meal was the special, Halibut ($39) in a white mild lemon butter sauce ..absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection. It was offered with risotto but and asparagus. Dessert key lime pie with a raspberry sauce yummy ($10) and I had a glass of Chianti ($10) and a cocktail ($12) I would give the wait staff 5 stars if it were not for the waiter we ended up with and the confusion of who was our waiter. I give 4 stars Food 4 stars due to over cooked pasta, it really should be slightly aldente. Otherwise food was Delicious. Bathrooms 2stars, bring your night goggles. It is so dark in the bathrooms that I barely could see my lips close up to the mirror as I tried to put some lip gloss on. Truthfully with what we pay for dinner they surely can afford a few light fixtures in the ladies room so we can see how we look let alone the soap and faucet. Over all 4 stars... They would have had 5 if not for the pasta and unfriendly waiter. Would I go back. Yes on a special occasion. And would avoid the pasta and that waitor
(4)Jean F.
Valentine's Day at Mezzaluna was a romantic evening. We sat on the terrace which was lovely and warmed with heated lamps. Maryland crab cakes where delicious. Our server was very helpful explaining the specials. We had prime rib which was cooked to perfection and a very ample portion. My husband loved the yellow snapper, the sauce was rich without being overpowering, tarragon and capers what a great combination. I'm embarrassed to say our plates were practically licked cleaned. The flour less chocolate cake we paired with the coconut sorbet, just yummy! The bill was hefty, but well worth it for an extra special evening.
(5)Joe B.
Top notch ambiance, food and service! Valet or park yourself and walk in from close in front. Italian style seafood and steaks made to perfection. great service and presentation. Real hand drying towels in the bathroom and over the top touch. A couples dream date dinner place for sure.
(5)Richard A.
Wonderful food, service and atmosphere. Every year we dine there when visiting Ft Lauderdale. Even though we miss the old location because of its energy and jammed dining atmosphere, the consistant fantastic food makes the more open and elegant new venue make us forget. So many good things. But I love their Caesar, bisque and veal.
(4)Adrianna U.
So.... i don't get to experience restaurants like this often, so is it too hard to expect an extraordinary meal? I guess that was my problem. I expected to be really satisfied and all i got was good, but not great... ya feelz me? I went with a group and sampled many of the appetizers. this included shrimp Spring Rolls, which weren't too bad. I also tried the crab cakes which were pretty tasty. For my meal, i had the Fra Diavolo, but I also got to try the seafood pasta. First off, I couldn't really tell the difference between the two. I understand the Fra is supposed to be spicier, but they seriously tasted like they came from the same sauce. Maybe it's my unsophisticated palete xD Pasta was fine. Not the best thing I tasted, so it was kind of a let down when you're paying almost $40 dollars for it. It didn't have too much sauce and it's flavors weren't too on point. Not terrible, of course, or anything unbearable to eat. Just not even close to the best pasta i've had. Switching subjects, the ambiance is very nice. Inside is like a little mansion/house. Bathrooms are very classy. They had cloth napkins, and I wasn't even sure where to put them when i was done xD We sat on the outside with nice sparkling lights. Makes you feel like your in a European city, until you realize your in a meh area of Ft. Lauderdale.
(3)Mark S.
Went in for dinner with my family while on vacation. After seated we were greeted by Phil our waiter. He was so knowledgable and passionate about the menu, and his personal favorites. He started us with wine which was very nice. Then to a Wedge salad and a shrimp cocktail with shrimp the size of my hand that was excellent. Our main dishes were Free Range Chicken, veal parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs and I had a Ribeye steak. I have eaten at some of the best steakhouses in NY and this was probably the best ribeye I ever had. For dessert we had Apple crumb, NY cheesecake, flourless chocolate cake and the special berry pie. All were outstanding. The price was not cheap but well worth it for the exquisite meal that we had. Thanks Phil for the great service. Your NY friends. PS the light up menus were awesome
(5)Gary L.
Great service even right at closing time. Had wedge salad with a great dressing along with special of the day fish. Martinis were mixed to perfection. For those on a budget, go to outback. Four in our party and with tax and tip, tab was $300.00. Will be back!
(5)Marqus R.
Oh yeah! Now we're talking about a really great place. It's really a class act place. I've been going to Bistro Mezzaluna for a number of years, starting off at their prior location over on 17th Causeway. Now they've moved into what was formerly Rio, a big, sumptuous, elegant facility. They have a beautiful lobby, bar/lounge area, inside dinning room and shaded outside patio with a nice fountain which when seated with older men I tend to avoid because of what seems to be the resultant effects of running water seems to have on their enlarged prostates. Excuse me for pointing that out, but some people really do need to know about that. The service is professional, totally top notch and the food, though somewhat on the pricey sides is top quality, properly prepared, elegantly presented and generally worth it. One thing that they have that most other restaurants do not have is high tech background illuminating menus. So, no matter the lighting and even if you have poor vision, the menus are easily read.
(4)Bruce K.
I let my friend the Internet millionaire choose and I was sorta hoping that he might spring for the check. Oh well. It was still an absolutely top notch excellent meal. I had a beer in the bar while I waited for my friend to show up. We were then shown to a nice table outside (it was only 75, so it was cool). Another table had the buffalo mozzarella salad and it looked excellent, so I had that to start. A good choice. Some big pieces of fresh beefsteak tomatoes and slices of creamy mozzarella cheese with three big roasted peppers. It was enough for two. For my main, I had the chicken and sausage pasta. Lots of thin sliced pamesan on top, it had an excellent rich flavor and a really yummy brothy sauce mixed through. So much, I ended up taking half of it home to leave room for dessert. A piece of key lime pie. The side was let down a bit here - it was nice and creamy, but it wasn't as tart as I would have liked. The crust was good - I ate all of that and maybe a third of the pie. As Michelle mentions, a great place for a date. Good ambiance and good service and good food. You can skip the valet parking - the lot is plenty big. Note: The map pin is slightly off. East of Federal Highway on 17th Street, turn right (south) onto Tenth Avenue.
(4)Caitlin I.
The Oysters Rockefeller are on point! They have a frothy creamy heavenly whip on top that will be part of my last meal. I had the Chilean seabass, it was amazing but then again Chilean seabass is always amazing, IMO. Boyfriend had Mahi topped with crabmeat, I think. To be perfectly honest my seabass was my only concern, it was THAT good. The portion was large! I was stuffed, everyone enjoyed their food. Bathrooms had cloth napkins...soooo fancyyyyy. The menus cracked me up, my dad, who is older loved them, it's the only place I haven't seen him turn his phone flashlight on to read the menu (they light up when you open them). Service was great and our waiter had some input on what dishes to try. This place is pricy, I'd only come for a special occasion because I'm a poor twenty-something but it's worth coming at least once!
(4)Juan T.
We were in Lauderdale on business last week and thought we would try their new location as we had eaten at the old location in the past. The new place is really big but beautiful. I saw several of the old waiters that were at the old location. They have a really nice bar with live music. We had steaks and pasta. Both dishes were prepared perfectly. I had the chocolate soufflé and it was wonderful. The service is flawless and they also have a great wine selection. Can't wait to return.
(5)Don S.
Still as good as ever with excellent food, atmosphere and service. Loved it. Jerry is an excellent manager as well. Bar hops on weekend evenings.
(5)Carolyn C.
Loved this place!!! Our meal was extraordinary, service was top notch and the food was so amazing... Our waiter Robert clearly loved his job... His eyes sparkled when he described the specials... He took great care of our crew. Enjoyed the ambiance, the menus even lit up so you could see them! From appetizers, to drinks, main dishes and desserts...they were all great in my book. Not a single complaint from our visit. I would love to visit here again.
(5)Chuck L.
Would have like to have given them four and one-half stars...so consider this review four and one-half stars! Eight-fifteen reservations for Friday night (my new sweetheart's 60th birthday...and a babe to boot!) Arrived at approximately 7:45PM. Greeted by enthusiastic valet service! Go figure! Not kids, but real valet gentlemen who started off the evening perfectly! Short trip to the front desk, verified reservations and mentioned that we would be sitting at the bar for a cocktail before dinner. "No problem, make sure you enjoy and I'll come and get you later'. No 15 minutes, no 10 minutes, but just 'later'! Perfect. I'm quite comfortable already. By the way, the place is magnificently beautiful. Very friendly bartenders who were clad in nondescript clothing i.e. no uniforms, but rather clothing that suggested I was at someones home for a party. Very comfortable atmosphere! Well stocked bar by the way! About 25 minutes later, a young lady came by to let us know our table was ready if 'we were ready'...Nice! no push no rush....and the place was NOT empty...they didn't have to do this! On the way over to the table the hostess mentioned that she was taking us to a very quiet table where we could converse without yelling at each other....noise level was moderate and conducive to conversation, yet our table was extra special! I mentioned when making reservations that it was a 'special' occasion ....it did not fall on deaf ears! Waiter strolled by about 3 minutes later and in a very friendly fashion asked if our drinks were OK and if we needed refills....would be back to discuss menu...very polite, friendly and good natured! Kudos to him! Waiter returned with our drinks (we asked to have them refreshed) and explained the specials...upon his return, my date needed clarification and was offered such. She decided upon the Maryland crab cakes and I ordered the yellow snapper. A mozzarella caprese appetizer was order and arrived with perfect timing. Excellent cheese...tomatoes were so so, but that seems par for the course as of late. No blame here! Dinner arrived perfectly timed and discretely without fanfare...polite and professional and 'light'...no pretense here...serious yet very friendly! Dinner was good...my date raved about the crab cakes and were everything the waiter claimed....my fish was OK...nothing overly special but NO complaints...when you're in love, food is not going under the microscope although in all seriousness, it was quite good. A shared cheesecake (HUGH slice!) was enjoyed by the both of us.... A trip to the lounge for a last drink and some music. GREAT piano player with a great voice and a great lounge 'repertoire' made a great finale to our evening! The piano player even stopped mid-lyrics to call out 'good night' to us! What a fantastic touch to a great evening! Whenever a special event is taking place in your life, this is the place to celebrate...yet I will return for those 'special' dinners with my 'special' someone in the very near future! Thank you for a great evening not soon forgotten!
(5)Rocki R.
one of my fav restaurants. Food is always good, Service is always great. When they first moved to the much larger new location i thought they may lose their quality and coziness but they didn't. We usually get the filet and seabass but have tried most everything on the menu and never been disappointed.
(5)Diana N.
Very classy, almost looks like you re walking into a nice hotel. Unfortunately I ordered a lobster roll which i thought was terrible. I'd like to go back to order a different dish. I feel like this place deserves another try.
(2)Maryann C.
The decor is beautiful, the lighted menus a wonderful idea, our server Waz was amazing...first class! Parts of the food were great...oysters, Caesar salad, flour less chocolate cake (to die for) the fish was good, spinach great a nice meal, yes, pricey. The music after dinner at the bar was the perfect touch to a beautiful anniversary evening.
(4)S K.
A quiet night for the restaurant on a Sunday at 7:30pm. Exceptional service and four excellent dinners plus appetizers. Great crab cakes, porterhouse, calamari, lobster bisque. All was delicious. Lovely atmosphere.
(5)Umar G.
The food at Mezzaluna can be described as lush. The best ingredients, not too overworked ... cooked just enough to bring out their ... lusciousness. :) We started with the spring rolls and the calamari. The spring rolls were not greasy and had a nice mango salsa accompaniement. The calamari had been coated with a tempura rice batter (I think) and so the breading was airy and crisp and complemented soft chewiness of the rings. Our salad was a caeser with garlic croutons. The lettuce was crisp, the salad was not overly dressed and had generous, thick shavings of a nutty reggiano. My main course was the filet mignon as was my partners. I had mine rare and he had his medium rare. Both came out done to perfection. The sides (usually mushy) were well seasoned and the home fries were crisp chunks of potato elevated to a higher level. Finally we come to the piece de resistance. Ina Garten says everybody remembers dessert and she was spot on in this case. My cheesecake was to die for! The filling was light and airy and not overly sweet. The crust was crisp enough to provide a nice contrast, and if one's bite got too creamy, there was a schmear of raspberry sauce on the plate to provide just enough tart to want to continue eating the cake. All in all Mezzaluna delivers. It seems to be that their credo may be that if you get the best ingredients and treat them just right, they'll treat you right in return. If you have a special night coming up, give this one a try.
(4)Night Ryder I.
Classy place. Great food. Half pound Bistro Burger looked small but was very filling, sweet roasted pepper relish was delicious. Luv the thin fries. Cool lighted menu. Pamper yourself with a visit to this establishment.
(5)Diane S.
Went here for our anniversary dinner. We sat at the bar when we first got there and they seemed to have a decent happy hour crowd and drink prices were good. We were seated for dinner and service and food was just mediocre. I ordered the scallops and my bf ordered rack of lamb. Very pricy and we were not impressed.
(3)Howard N.
They have gotten too big. This was the second year that it wasn't very good. In fact, this year it was terrible. We were a party of eight and after a little over two hours we left after the waiter announced he had forgotten to submit our order. Not good.
(2)Sarah P.
I like this place, I do. HOWEVER, the food is overpriced for what it is (one colossal shrimp for the shrimp cocktail is $6.75). I don't judge by price alone, but the taste of the food we ordered didn't totally "wow" me. I give the service 5 stars, and the atmosphere and wine menu 4 stars. They have live music (piano and singer) on weekend nights and the bar area is really comfortable in an old school way. It is definitely an older crowd, but not in a creepy meet-market sort of way. It just offers a slower pace for a Friday or Saturday night if that's what you're in the mood for. They serve lunch as well, and have a private room upstairs for corporate or social events. I agree with some of the other reviewers that it's a great "meet the parents" sort of restaurant, and the LED light up menus save my boyfriend the embarrassment of asking to use the Flashlight app on my phone:)
(3)Thomas R.
Love this place. Great happy hour love the food. We eat dinner out 7 nights a week and this is one of our favs. Love the oysters and the seafood appetizer salad.
(5)rachel u.
I've heard Bistro Mezzaluna mentioned many times, and was excited to check it out for myself! I got a one-a-day deal for a $50 for 25. We ordered the arugula salad, simple, but good. I was disappointed by the meatballs, figured a place like Mezzaluna would have out-of-this-world meatballs. They were good, but not amazing. The sauce they were in was delicious though, wish the meatballs had met the perfection of their sauce... For dinner, rack of lamb with mashed potato, sauteed spinach, and roasted tomatoes topped with goat cheese. These tomatoes made the dish, the mild goat cheese with the tomato went perfectly with the perfectly prepared lamb. Chocolate cake was awesome and a scoop of coffee/mocha chip ice cream served on the side was good, too. Good service, although a bit slow, I'm pretty sure he was over compensating for not making us feel rushed. They were booked for 9pm reservations, so we went in at 930.
(4)Lorraine U.
Wonderful meal there last night. Arugala salad and truffle mac and cheese to die! Will be back.
(5)Louise H.
I have to admit I wasn't expecting to enjoy Mezzaluna- its in my neighborhood and I've always heard it was for the 40+ crowd and a meat market for Ft. Laud's aging bachelors, however the food was so outstanding that I can ignore it. I went with my family and was very impressed by the huge portions that I feel justify the pricey ticket prices. We had the oysters, which apparently sell for a $1 each during happy hour (we missed it) and a beautiful and entree-sized heirloom salad, which was a tad overdressed. My father had the lobster mac'n'cheese, which is his usual and I was pleasantly surprised at the hugeness of the dish and that it wasn't too rich- I was expecting a little cast iron skillet oozing with fat a la Rok Burger. My stepmother and friend had the seafood pasta which is honestly about 3lbs of spaghetti, biggest scallops I've ever seen, clams, lobster and shrimp- plenty of leftovers for the next week! Trying to keep with my "diet" I had the yellowtail snapper with capers, tomatoes and crab meat and substituted the mashed potatoes for extra asparagus and spinach. Very lovely and light although I felt the crab didn't do anything to the dish. Would definetly go back- lovely evening.
(4)Brittany M.
No way around it...this place is amazing! Definitely a slightly older crowd (I'm 24 so older than me but not necessarily old old) but that could be because it is very pricey. Portions are huge though and so fresh/delcious. Linguine and clams are out of this world! This is a great place to take your parents when they come in town for a visit. Took mine and my boyfriend's parents and everyone raved the whole time!
(5)Douglas C.
I have only eaten here a couple of times as there are other on par Italian dining options at similar or lower prices in the Fort Lauderdale area. However, I have been very pleased whenever I dine here. Most recently, I started off with a very tasty caesar salad and then had their rigatoni bolognese, upon the recommendation of our friendly and gregarious waiter. The rigatoni was cooked al dente and the meat sauce, consisting of a mixture of veal, pork and beef was sweet, low on acidity and was a comforting and fulfilling dish. Portions are large here. On a previous occasion I had the linguine with white clam sauce. It was chock full of clams and memorably good. The restaurant is very comfortable with a large bar, booths and tables throughout. Lifting the menu is a workout since they are back lit which is pretty entertaining when you are not suspecting it (sorry I ruined the surprise). Dining companions I was with mentioned they too really enjoyed their meal, especially a snapper special which did look very good indeed. For dessert, the chocolate cake/souffle was light, fluffy, rich and delicious. I like Bistro Mezzaluna and if it were a little less expensive I would eat there more often. However, it is nice for a special occasion and quality Italian food.
(3)Frank D.
TIRAMISU is as good as it gets - period after a show at the broward center for the performing arts this past sunday the early evening lounge here was surprisingly active - i was actually expecting an empty restaurant since it isn't yet season the point of my visit was to have a night-cap (DRAMBUIE) and discuss the performance (LAST CALL with terri girvens) and also to show my daughter the light-up menus plus have dessert (TIRAMISU) i cannot tell you what else they offer BUT to come only for dessert is worth the trip
(5)Elliott L.
Excellent decor, food and service. The light up menus were cute. We got the sesame crusted sear tuna and sea bass....both dishes were so fresh and perfectly seasoned. The apple pie was suggested for 2, it could have handled 4 so worth the price. No wait considering it was prime time on a Saturday night. I would revisit this place anytime I am in town.
(5)Kim B.
My roommate and I went to Bistro Mezzaluna, very nice restaurant. The service was very professional. I tried the Pan Roasted Yellow Tail Snapper and it was delicious. The asparagus was tender and the mozzarella was fresh tasting. The fish, delicate and moist. I would highly recommend this restaurant for a quaint dinning atmosphere.
(5)Mike W.
Great food great service! Love the new location.
(5)stephanie f.
I've lived in Fort Lauderdale for over 3 years, and have frequented many restaurants but somehow never made it to Bistro M. Right on 17th street, I can't even tell you how many times i drove by it unsuspecting. From the outside it looks like a regular, run of the mill, family italian restaurant in a shopping plaza. Looks can be deceiving. Inside, are plenty of awards including Zagat, in a small, warm atmosphere. To the left is a nice bar and to the right are the tables. Service was a bit slow, but the food was great. The menu literally lights up upon opening it. Cool, but i would rather save a few dollars on my meal. The menu is small but everything looked good. We were going to order the special, but they came back after they had run out. On to the food Tomato Basil Soup: Thick, creamy goodness with Homemade croutons in the middle. Thumbs Up. Seabass: Nothing beats seabass in my opinion. And this was great. Lemon Swordfish (sorry can't remember the name of it exactly) I think was even better than the Seabass which is hard to do. I can't wait to come back to this little place. I have to make up for the 3 years i didn't see it.
(4)Richard S.
Had dinner here the other night and I realize that now I don't have to leave Ft Lauderdale for really bad pseudo Italian food. I ordered a monstrosity called penne with chicken, sausage, broccoli rabe in some kind of horrid balsamic sauce. The penne was really rigatoni and the overcooked boneless chicken chunks were a challenge to chew. The rest of it looked and tasted awful. I truly regret not sending it back. The service was adequate but I'm not sure who our waiter was as we had several during the course of dinner. It ranged from indifferent to obsequious, but everything came out promptly. That night hasn't changed my opinion that Ft Lauderdale has the most mediocre to terrible, bordering on criminal fraud, overpriced eateries anywhere in South Florida. Broward County food seems to be at best, pizza, burgers, wings, and burritos and not much else unless you want to take a big expensive risk. For good restaurant experience and sophisticated menus, high quality, and professional service, go to Miami, Delray Beach, or Boca. I do.
(1)Michelle C.
Excellent place for a date! My boyfriend and I bought the groupon and had a great experience! Everyone was very attentive and the menus were out of the ordinary which were lit with LED lights! Their food was awesome! I ordered the pasta which was with a balsamic sauce and sausage that I promise would not be found no where. We also ordered the creme brûlée which was tasteful but too sweet for us. Great service and food!
(5)Damian R.
I am so disappointed we went to this place when there are so many great places around but I have to say that this is maybe the NASTIEST place I have been in my whole life, and I have been in many. Everything about this place is bad. This is the place for you if you are over 70 years old and you have a nasty attitude towards people around you, then you will fit perfectly in the place. Some of the people working at the bar should be working in a prison instead of doing hospitality. (specially the curly blond older woman) Not to mention the place taking the public parking space that is in front of the building so that way you have to do a ridiculous valet parking. I wonder if this is even legal? This is a great place to take your worst enemy...I mean REALLY!
(1)Luis M.
This unsuspecting location is one that I've sadly passed by countless times on the way to the beach. A friend tipped me off to Mezzaluna, and I'm for sure coming back. The meals were inexplicably sultry, decadent, passionate. Just sexy. A place like this might get the unlayable laid. And like a high end hooker, it'll cost ya. My gf and I celebrated Valentines Day a week early and I decided, why not go all out? I want to show her I love her, I'll probably even buy her a pepsi. She was pleased. The mood lighting and simple, romantic, decor was just right for the occasion. drink orders were taken, and steamy delicious rolls were served. we couldnt get enough. Ally ordered the salmon (30 bucks) and I ordered the 20 oz ribeye (45). Our meals were promptly served, and we dug in after bouts of beach-induced hunger pangs. My ribeye really hit the spot. I literally said out loud that it was the best cooked piece of meat I had ever had, juicy slobbery, thick and bloody... and that includes counteless rounds at Texas De Brazil. Mashed potatoes were fresh and just like i love them, and I was even more pleased when the waiter brought me the "tobacco onion rings" I had asked about. They were delicious strings of oniony goodness. My girl's salmon was also cooked to perfection. Still moist over fresh arrugula with goat cheese. The service was also phenomenal, very kind, polite, and attentive. And the GF enjoyed her pepsi too.
(4)Brooke K.
Don't let the location fool you as this restaurant will satisfy the more discerning of palates. Had the pleasure of enjoying the personality and skills of Executive Chef, Brian Rutherford at a local cooking school in town and decided to once again visit the restaurant. We were referred our first time about six months ago, took guests the second time and each visit was totally enjoyable. Ask for "Waz" for your waiter and do try the fabulous bread pudding or flourless chocolate cake for dessert.
(4)John C.
Bistro Mezzaluna has been around since before 1995 - a lifetime in restaurant years. For a while, it was one of a few "see and be seen" eateries where local movers & shakers would vie for preferred seating. Although that is still somewhat the case, the addition of more options, including Casa D'Angelo, Jacksons and Riley McDermiitt's has made it possible to walk in to Mezzaluna on a Satiurday night without a reservation and be immediately seated, which is exactly what I did last night with three friends. I must say that the service was absolutely impeccable. Our server, Phillip had great suggestions and never made us feel rushed. He timed the courses perfectly and the dishes (sea bass, yellowtail, pasta puttenesca) were evenly good with one exception. The seafood pasta, which the server mentioned was his favorite dish on the menu, consisted of large sea scallops, shrimp, clams and lobster, served over a light, fresh tomato and olive oil sauce and garnished with a large bunch of fresh basil neded the kick provided by the crushed red pepper that the server brought on the side. More importantly, the lobster tail had been previously frozen and was impossible to remove from the shell. When I brought this the the server's attention, he offered to bring a freshly cooked tail, but that also had been previously frozen and stuck to the shell, although somewhat less so. For the price ($39.00) Mezzaluna should be using fresh lobster tail in this dish. The reality is that the dish would have been just as good without the lobster, which didn't contribute much flavor. Other than that one misstep from the kitchen, we thouroughly enjoyed our Saturday night Mezzaluna experience. The restaurant is visually very appealing, with warm natural woods and fabrics, and the lighting is perfect, with pendant lamps lighting the booths and candles on the tables. Competition is good for restaurant patrons, and now that Mezzaluna is not one of the only high-end games in town, they seemed to truly appreciate our business. If you go, ask to be seated at one of Phillip's tables. He is one of the best waiters I have experienced anywhere. Parking note: Mezzaluna is located in a strip mall. Bypass the valet. Self-parking is plentiful in the lot directly in front of the restaurant..
(4)Alex S.
I've eaten here - and done take out - several times and their pasta is really really good. I usually get the rigatoni bolognese, which is great. A little lighter than a typical bolognese, not creamy, but it's delicious. Their pasta servings are huge. They can seriously feed at leasat two and maybe three people as an entree. They are expensive too. Personally, I'd rather pay half the price for half the food, but at least you'll be left with great leftovers.
(4)Shelby C.
Wonderful meal! Great service, ambiance, and the food was excellent! The best Chilean sea bass I ever had in my life. We visited late night during the week....off season...so we were seated right away (no reservations) We heard that it can be a long wait at other times. Can't wait to go back!!
(5)Susan E.
Great bar and Happy Hour with piano and terrific appetizers! Restaurant and bar have nice ambience as well as good food. Good place for lunch too!
(4)narisa s.
This restaurant is amazing. The service is so professional and the ambiance is sophisticated and private. Food is to die for. Reccomend for sure
(5)Darryn T.
Once again, full disclosure, I am a vegetarian (eggs and cheese) and Italian food is a great go to. Normally. Nearly zero choices on the menu. No eggplant parmigiana, nothing. When I told my server I expected more vegetarian selections at an Italian restaurant her response was, "Oh, we are northern Italian." Okay, fair enough. Dark and noisy with the ambiance of, and another reviewer already mentioned it, a hotel lobby. Perhaps the food would have been okay, I'll never know. Good luck.
(2)Astrid S.
Went there for lunch. The place looks amazing, the decor is beautiful. It's perfect for business lunches as well as date night. I had the Mahi Mahi - one of the best meals I've had in months. Absolutely delicious. The husband had Rigatoni with Bolognese - he loved his dish as well. The only thing, the service was a bit slow, they seemed very understaffed. But otherwise great experience, I will definitely be back.
(5)Ralphie M.
Great upper casual atmosphere with relaxed dining. Excellent service and authentic Italian food.
(5)Wendy S.
I had been at the old location many years ago, loved it, and when we were in the area and saw the new location, we decided to go again. We did not have a reservation on a friday night, so they pressed us to go outside. I was hesitant, but it was beautiful out, so when they said " just check it out.", I am glad we did! Charming covered patio with a big fountain that was not too loud and with t he small white lights everywhere it was charming. Our server was great. Very attentive amd made sure I always had water. That is a pet peeve of mine, so I enjoyed that. The LED menus are fun, as it is dim outside (and inside) so really necessary. The menu was varied, and i ended up with the veal piccata and BF had the Pasta Bolognese. Mine was good. It was a bit salty, and the broccolini sauteed with garlic and olive oil was a bit bitter, but the veal was tender and perfectly cooked. It came with roasted potatoes. A nice meal, but more a $26-27 meal, not $32. BF liked his pasta bolognese, good mix of beef, pork and veal in the sauce. But more of a $21-22 dish than a $24. Side salad was $10, which i think is pretty high for a garden salad. Desserts looked really good,but we passed. I remember it being amazing, and it is still good, but really no different than a lot of other nice Italian restaurants. But the covered pation is beautiful!
(3)Jim D.
Went there tonight with Master Yelper Marqus R. and as you enter it's like walking into someone's home. The hostess greets you with a smile and escorts you to your table. It is nice and the Restaurant is very confortable,not formal or stuffy. You are handed the menu which is about a ton because the whole menu lights up, something I have never seen. I had the scallops which were good, and a shrimp appetizer also very good. . The service was very fast and Alex was very helpful our waiter. Good food, good drink , and good company. you can't go bad with that combination for the noise well there must have been a lot of New Yorkers there. Last month I ate dinner at John's Pizzeria near Times Square. it was like rush hour at Grand Central Station
(4)Larry D.
We are on town on business and were informed of this restaurant by some friends. We got there after 9 pm. And they still had some business. The bar was lively and they had a booth in there available. We listened to the live music and had a great dinner. The place has great service and the food was as good as I have had in this town. We will eat here next time in town
(5)Ashley D.
Try the firecracker shrimp that is on their happy hour menu! They are amazing! My boyfriend loves the king crab legs and I love their steaks with the bourdelais sauce and a side of mushrooms!
(5)Douglas C.
I have only eaten here a couple of times as there are other on par Italian dining options at similar or lower prices in the Fort Lauderdale area. However, I have been very pleased whenever I dine here. Most recently, I started off with a very tasty caesar salad and then had their rigatoni bolognese, upon the recommendation of our friendly and gregarious waiter. The rigatoni was cooked al dente and the meat sauce, consisting of a mixture of veal, pork and beef was sweet, low on acidity and was a comforting and fulfilling dish. Portions are large here. On a previous occasion I had the linguine with white clam sauce. It was chock full of clams and memorably good. The restaurant is very comfortable with a large bar, booths and tables throughout. Lifting the menu is a workout since they are back lit which is pretty entertaining when you are not suspecting it (sorry I ruined the surprise). Dining companions I was with mentioned they too really enjoyed their meal, especially a snapper special which did look very good indeed. For dessert, the chocolate cake/souffle was light, fluffy, rich and delicious. I like Bistro Mezzaluna and if it were a little less expensive I would eat there more often. However, it is nice for a special occasion and quality Italian food.
(3)Frank D.
TIRAMISU is as good as it gets - period after a show at the broward center for the performing arts this past sunday the early evening lounge here was surprisingly active - i was actually expecting an empty restaurant since it isn't yet season the point of my visit was to have a night-cap (DRAMBUIE) and discuss the performance (LAST CALL with terri girvens) and also to show my daughter the light-up menus plus have dessert (TIRAMISU) i cannot tell you what else they offer BUT to come only for dessert is worth the trip
(5)Elliott L.
Excellent decor, food and service. The light up menus were cute. We got the sesame crusted sear tuna and sea bass....both dishes were so fresh and perfectly seasoned. The apple pie was suggested for 2, it could have handled 4 so worth the price. No wait considering it was prime time on a Saturday night. I would revisit this place anytime I am in town.
(5)stephanie f.
I've lived in Fort Lauderdale for over 3 years, and have frequented many restaurants but somehow never made it to Bistro M. Right on 17th street, I can't even tell you how many times i drove by it unsuspecting. From the outside it looks like a regular, run of the mill, family italian restaurant in a shopping plaza. Looks can be deceiving. Inside, are plenty of awards including Zagat, in a small, warm atmosphere. To the left is a nice bar and to the right are the tables. Service was a bit slow, but the food was great. The menu literally lights up upon opening it. Cool, but i would rather save a few dollars on my meal. The menu is small but everything looked good. We were going to order the special, but they came back after they had run out. On to the food Tomato Basil Soup: Thick, creamy goodness with Homemade croutons in the middle. Thumbs Up. Seabass: Nothing beats seabass in my opinion. And this was great. Lemon Swordfish (sorry can't remember the name of it exactly) I think was even better than the Seabass which is hard to do. I can't wait to come back to this little place. I have to make up for the 3 years i didn't see it.
(4)Mike W.
Great food great service! Love the new location.
(5)Michelle C.
Excellent place for a date! My boyfriend and I bought the groupon and had a great experience! Everyone was very attentive and the menus were out of the ordinary which were lit with LED lights! Their food was awesome! I ordered the pasta which was with a balsamic sauce and sausage that I promise would not be found no where. We also ordered the creme brûlée which was tasteful but too sweet for us. Great service and food!
(5)Courtney C.
LOVED this place. We live within walking distance and have been waiting for an occasion to try it out. We stopped in on 4th of July before heading out to catch the fireworks. It was empty when we arrived (likely due to the holiday) but we had the back patio to ourselves (and our pup). Service was fantastic- our waiter Alex was great. We ordered the buffalo shrimp to start, which was so outstanding, that my boyfriend ordered a second plate. For our entrees, we chose the lobster humedor special and the yellow snapper. No kidding, the lobster humedor was one of the most exquisite dishes I've ever eaten. Complete with two lobster tails, sauteed spinach, mushrooms, and fresh pasta, I am still dreaming about it.
(5)Susan J.
Awesome place !! The food is so good it melts in your mouth the staff is awesome . Place is gorgeous ask for Waz !!!
(5)Kinjal K.
I went to this restaurant for happy hour with my friends. It was fairly crowded when we arrived. We were seated at a long table arrangement next to the bar. The service was a little slow because they only had two people working the bar. One was steadily behind the bar and the other was going to all the tables taking orders. There were way too many people there. She should have had help. I first ordered the meatballs. The portion was small and they lacked in flavor. I was not satisfied and decided to try the baked brie. That was okay, but I was not a fan of the nuts inside. I finally decided to try the Maryland crab cake. That was actually pretty good!! I was not a fan of the basil martini I ordered, and I decided not to order anymore from the bar. All in all, I don't think I'll be returning to this restaurant. The service was too slow, and the food was not worth the prices. Trying all those dishes and not finding one I liked left me craving something simple, like a burger.
(3)Kerri Y.
Exceptional Dining experience, great place for date night. I went here the suggestion of the hotel and they did not steer me wrong. As other reviews say the restuarnt is clean, classy and just fantastic service. The backlit menus were a great touch. The wine and food are beyond excellent. We started with the Homemade meatballs on suggestion of the waiter and they were scrumptious. We both had steak and both were excellent peices of meat. After dinner we hit the piano bar for some after dinner port. The atmosphere was more casual and the crowd that hung around was on the older side. Overall still great. It was a little pricey- but what you would expect to pay at any higher quality restaurant. I would recommend this place to any one visiting Ft. Lauderdale.
(5)Joe B.
Top notch ambiance, food and service! Valet or park yourself and walk in from close in front. Italian style seafood and steaks made to perfection. great service and presentation. Real hand drying towels in the bathroom and over the top touch. A couples dream date dinner place for sure.
(5)Jo W.
First impressions - a nice restaurant that caters to the sophisticated! Once inside, it was a little dark (considering it was not dark outside yet), but still a pleasant ambiance nonetheless. To compensate for the dark atmosphere, the presented menus light up so that you are able to see it. Thoughtful choice, but did the lighted menus come about as a result of having a poorly lit restaurant, or did they make the restaurant dark because they thought lighted menus would be cool? Regardless, after looking over the menu and struggling to decided what to get, I ceased the day and ordered the Pan Roasted Yellowtail Snapper that comes with a white wine sauces, lump crab, capers and a side of mashed potatoes and sautéed asparagus. White sauces scare me because they just look tasteless but I was pleasantly surprise by a delectable piece of flaky fish and a slightly tangy, but tasty sauce. My fiancé had the Skirt Steak with Arugula Salad, Frites and Chimichurri Sauce, a pretty standard meal in South Florida. The Arugula Salad left something to be desired, but the marvelous steak and accompanying Frites and Chimichurri Sauce more than compensated for that. The steak was a great, tender cut of meat. After having such a satisfying meal, dessert was a no brainer. We took up the offer to try the Chef's Special Chocolate Bread Pudding and it was quite impressive. It was the right consistency, the right amount of sweetness and oh so good. I didn't leave without trying one of their cocktails. At the waiter's suggestion, I tried a Raspberry Mojito. It was strong and fresh. They are known for their Happy Hour, so at the discounted price, it would definitely worth it. The food and drinks was amazing, but it is good to know that service was exceptional as well. We got really lucky and got a very friendly, upbeat server who was not only professional but engaging and equally as wonderful as well. All around dinner was great I would definitely come again.
(4)Morris M.
Sorry, but I felt a bit uncomfortable in this restaurant. It's just too stuffy and full of over-privileged rich folk. Kind of looks like a hotel lobby really. The food is quite expensive, but to their credit it is tasty and fresh. This may be something you do for an anniversary perhaps, but not every day.
(3)Jesus R.
This place exudes class. It's intimate, with lovely lighting and smooth melodies traveling from the piano bar adding to the charm. The service is impeccable. The waitstaff has the right mix of charm and professionalism. This is the type of place you take your lady to, wine her, dine her, ask the piano player to play a Donnie Hathaway song and slow dance with her as if no one is watching. Of course, everyone will, but that's still what you should do, dammit!
(4)Dara B.
Off the beaten path of 17th Street Causeway, is this quaint place. Excellent happy hour 4-7pm. The bar area gets packed during those times but lingers away after 7. I highly recommend the baked brie!!!
(5)Damian R.
I am so disappointed we went to this place when there are so many great places around but I have to say that this is maybe the NASTIEST place I have been in my whole life, and I have been in many. Everything about this place is bad. This is the place for you if you are over 70 years old and you have a nasty attitude towards people around you, then you will fit perfectly in the place. Some of the people working at the bar should be working in a prison instead of doing hospitality. (specially the curly blond older woman) Not to mention the place taking the public parking space that is in front of the building so that way you have to do a ridiculous valet parking. I wonder if this is even legal? This is a great place to take your worst enemy...I mean REALLY!
(1)Kim B.
My roommate and I went to Bistro Mezzaluna, very nice restaurant. The service was very professional. I tried the Pan Roasted Yellow Tail Snapper and it was delicious. The asparagus was tender and the mozzarella was fresh tasting. The fish, delicate and moist. I would highly recommend this restaurant for a quaint dinning atmosphere.
(5)Luis M.
This unsuspecting location is one that I've sadly passed by countless times on the way to the beach. A friend tipped me off to Mezzaluna, and I'm for sure coming back. The meals were inexplicably sultry, decadent, passionate. Just sexy. A place like this might get the unlayable laid. And like a high end hooker, it'll cost ya. My gf and I celebrated Valentines Day a week early and I decided, why not go all out? I want to show her I love her, I'll probably even buy her a pepsi. She was pleased. The mood lighting and simple, romantic, decor was just right for the occasion. drink orders were taken, and steamy delicious rolls were served. we couldnt get enough. Ally ordered the salmon (30 bucks) and I ordered the 20 oz ribeye (45). Our meals were promptly served, and we dug in after bouts of beach-induced hunger pangs. My ribeye really hit the spot. I literally said out loud that it was the best cooked piece of meat I had ever had, juicy slobbery, thick and bloody... and that includes counteless rounds at Texas De Brazil. Mashed potatoes were fresh and just like i love them, and I was even more pleased when the waiter brought me the "tobacco onion rings" I had asked about. They were delicious strings of oniony goodness. My girl's salmon was also cooked to perfection. Still moist over fresh arrugula with goat cheese. The service was also phenomenal, very kind, polite, and attentive. And the GF enjoyed her pepsi too.
(4)Brooke K.
Don't let the location fool you as this restaurant will satisfy the more discerning of palates. Had the pleasure of enjoying the personality and skills of Executive Chef, Brian Rutherford at a local cooking school in town and decided to once again visit the restaurant. We were referred our first time about six months ago, took guests the second time and each visit was totally enjoyable. Ask for "Waz" for your waiter and do try the fabulous bread pudding or flourless chocolate cake for dessert.
(4)John C.
Bistro Mezzaluna has been around since before 1995 - a lifetime in restaurant years. For a while, it was one of a few "see and be seen" eateries where local movers & shakers would vie for preferred seating. Although that is still somewhat the case, the addition of more options, including Casa D'Angelo, Jacksons and Riley McDermiitt's has made it possible to walk in to Mezzaluna on a Satiurday night without a reservation and be immediately seated, which is exactly what I did last night with three friends. I must say that the service was absolutely impeccable. Our server, Phillip had great suggestions and never made us feel rushed. He timed the courses perfectly and the dishes (sea bass, yellowtail, pasta puttenesca) were evenly good with one exception. The seafood pasta, which the server mentioned was his favorite dish on the menu, consisted of large sea scallops, shrimp, clams and lobster, served over a light, fresh tomato and olive oil sauce and garnished with a large bunch of fresh basil neded the kick provided by the crushed red pepper that the server brought on the side. More importantly, the lobster tail had been previously frozen and was impossible to remove from the shell. When I brought this the the server's attention, he offered to bring a freshly cooked tail, but that also had been previously frozen and stuck to the shell, although somewhat less so. For the price ($39.00) Mezzaluna should be using fresh lobster tail in this dish. The reality is that the dish would have been just as good without the lobster, which didn't contribute much flavor. Other than that one misstep from the kitchen, we thouroughly enjoyed our Saturday night Mezzaluna experience. The restaurant is visually very appealing, with warm natural woods and fabrics, and the lighting is perfect, with pendant lamps lighting the booths and candles on the tables. Competition is good for restaurant patrons, and now that Mezzaluna is not one of the only high-end games in town, they seemed to truly appreciate our business. If you go, ask to be seated at one of Phillip's tables. He is one of the best waiters I have experienced anywhere. Parking note: Mezzaluna is located in a strip mall. Bypass the valet. Self-parking is plentiful in the lot directly in front of the restaurant..
(4)Alex S.
I've eaten here - and done take out - several times and their pasta is really really good. I usually get the rigatoni bolognese, which is great. A little lighter than a typical bolognese, not creamy, but it's delicious. Their pasta servings are huge. They can seriously feed at leasat two and maybe three people as an entree. They are expensive too. Personally, I'd rather pay half the price for half the food, but at least you'll be left with great leftovers.
(4)Shelby C.
Wonderful meal! Great service, ambiance, and the food was excellent! The best Chilean sea bass I ever had in my life. We visited late night during the week....off season...so we were seated right away (no reservations) We heard that it can be a long wait at other times. Can't wait to go back!!
(5)Ashley D.
Try the firecracker shrimp that is on their happy hour menu! They are amazing! My boyfriend loves the king crab legs and I love their steaks with the bourdelais sauce and a side of mushrooms!
(5)Elizabeth P.
Came here last night for dinner and it was superb! The food was very well prepared and seasoned and our waiter paid very close attention to all the needs of everyone there.
(5)Heidi M.
First impressions mean everything... The restaurant is very classy and pristine. Low lighting and menus that light up . Dress up or come in slacks and a nice top,just dress classy. Service: 4 table staff. One gave our menus and told us the special. As well as took our orders for drinks and appetizers. Another gave us our bread. Another was our bus boy and a 4th took our main order. I was a bit confused as to who our main waiter was. Unfortunately it was the later who seemed unfriendly, abrupt and would walk away before I could finish my sentence. Rarely smiled and seemed annoyed. Food: You receive a basket of bread and delicious wheat and grain crackers. I ordered the seafood pasta ($39) full of seafood , 1/2 lobster tail, sea scallops, clams, shrimp and calamari all cooked to perfection. BUT the pasta was overcooked. A bit too soft almost mushy. The sauce was delicious. Our other meal was the special, Halibut ($39) in a white mild lemon butter sauce ..absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection. It was offered with risotto but and asparagus. Dessert key lime pie with a raspberry sauce yummy ($10) and I had a glass of Chianti ($10) and a cocktail ($12) I would give the wait staff 5 stars if it were not for the waiter we ended up with and the confusion of who was our waiter. I give 4 stars Food 4 stars due to over cooked pasta, it really should be slightly aldente. Otherwise food was Delicious. Bathrooms 2stars, bring your night goggles. It is so dark in the bathrooms that I barely could see my lips close up to the mirror as I tried to put some lip gloss on. Truthfully with what we pay for dinner they surely can afford a few light fixtures in the ladies room so we can see how we look let alone the soap and faucet. Over all 4 stars... They would have had 5 if not for the pasta and unfriendly waiter. Would I go back. Yes on a special occasion. And would avoid the pasta and that waitor
(4)Jean F.
Valentine's Day at Mezzaluna was a romantic evening. We sat on the terrace which was lovely and warmed with heated lamps. Maryland crab cakes where delicious. Our server was very helpful explaining the specials. We had prime rib which was cooked to perfection and a very ample portion. My husband loved the yellow snapper, the sauce was rich without being overpowering, tarragon and capers what a great combination. I'm embarrassed to say our plates were practically licked cleaned. The flour less chocolate cake we paired with the coconut sorbet, just yummy! The bill was hefty, but well worth it for an extra special evening.
(5)Mr. H.
Came in for a quick meal and the food was so delicious and the staff was perfect. I ordered the free range organic chicken with potatoes and salad and I would definitely order that again.!!
(5)Richard S.
Had dinner here the other night and I realize that now I don't have to leave Ft Lauderdale for really bad pseudo Italian food. I ordered a monstrosity called penne with chicken, sausage, broccoli rabe in some kind of horrid balsamic sauce. The penne was really rigatoni and the overcooked boneless chicken chunks were a challenge to chew. The rest of it looked and tasted awful. I truly regret not sending it back. The service was adequate but I'm not sure who our waiter was as we had several during the course of dinner. It ranged from indifferent to obsequious, but everything came out promptly. That night hasn't changed my opinion that Ft Lauderdale has the most mediocre to terrible, bordering on criminal fraud, overpriced eateries anywhere in South Florida. Broward County food seems to be at best, pizza, burgers, wings, and burritos and not much else unless you want to take a big expensive risk. For good restaurant experience and sophisticated menus, high quality, and professional service, go to Miami, Delray Beach, or Boca. I do.
(1)Adrianna U.
So.... i don't get to experience restaurants like this often, so is it too hard to expect an extraordinary meal? I guess that was my problem. I expected to be really satisfied and all i got was good, but not great... ya feelz me? I went with a group and sampled many of the appetizers. this included shrimp Spring Rolls, which weren't too bad. I also tried the crab cakes which were pretty tasty. For my meal, i had the Fra Diavolo, but I also got to try the seafood pasta. First off, I couldn't really tell the difference between the two. I understand the Fra is supposed to be spicier, but they seriously tasted like they came from the same sauce. Maybe it's my unsophisticated palete xD Pasta was fine. Not the best thing I tasted, so it was kind of a let down when you're paying almost $40 dollars for it. It didn't have too much sauce and it's flavors weren't too on point. Not terrible, of course, or anything unbearable to eat. Just not even close to the best pasta i've had. Switching subjects, the ambiance is very nice. Inside is like a little mansion/house. Bathrooms are very classy. They had cloth napkins, and I wasn't even sure where to put them when i was done xD We sat on the outside with nice sparkling lights. Makes you feel like your in a European city, until you realize your in a meh area of Ft. Lauderdale.
(3)Mark S.
Went in for dinner with my family while on vacation. After seated we were greeted by Phil our waiter. He was so knowledgable and passionate about the menu, and his personal favorites. He started us with wine which was very nice. Then to a Wedge salad and a shrimp cocktail with shrimp the size of my hand that was excellent. Our main dishes were Free Range Chicken, veal parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs and I had a Ribeye steak. I have eaten at some of the best steakhouses in NY and this was probably the best ribeye I ever had. For dessert we had Apple crumb, NY cheesecake, flourless chocolate cake and the special berry pie. All were outstanding. The price was not cheap but well worth it for the exquisite meal that we had. Thanks Phil for the great service. Your NY friends. PS the light up menus were awesome
(5)Gary L.
Great service even right at closing time. Had wedge salad with a great dressing along with special of the day fish. Martinis were mixed to perfection. For those on a budget, go to outback. Four in our party and with tax and tip, tab was $300.00. Will be back!
(5)Marqus R.
Oh yeah! Now we're talking about a really great place. It's really a class act place. I've been going to Bistro Mezzaluna for a number of years, starting off at their prior location over on 17th Causeway. Now they've moved into what was formerly Rio, a big, sumptuous, elegant facility. They have a beautiful lobby, bar/lounge area, inside dinning room and shaded outside patio with a nice fountain which when seated with older men I tend to avoid because of what seems to be the resultant effects of running water seems to have on their enlarged prostates. Excuse me for pointing that out, but some people really do need to know about that. The service is professional, totally top notch and the food, though somewhat on the pricey sides is top quality, properly prepared, elegantly presented and generally worth it. One thing that they have that most other restaurants do not have is high tech background illuminating menus. So, no matter the lighting and even if you have poor vision, the menus are easily read.
(4)Bruce K.
I let my friend the Internet millionaire choose and I was sorta hoping that he might spring for the check. Oh well. It was still an absolutely top notch excellent meal. I had a beer in the bar while I waited for my friend to show up. We were then shown to a nice table outside (it was only 75, so it was cool). Another table had the buffalo mozzarella salad and it looked excellent, so I had that to start. A good choice. Some big pieces of fresh beefsteak tomatoes and slices of creamy mozzarella cheese with three big roasted peppers. It was enough for two. For my main, I had the chicken and sausage pasta. Lots of thin sliced pamesan on top, it had an excellent rich flavor and a really yummy brothy sauce mixed through. So much, I ended up taking half of it home to leave room for dessert. A piece of key lime pie. The side was let down a bit here - it was nice and creamy, but it wasn't as tart as I would have liked. The crust was good - I ate all of that and maybe a third of the pie. As Michelle mentions, a great place for a date. Good ambiance and good service and good food. You can skip the valet parking - the lot is plenty big. Note: The map pin is slightly off. East of Federal Highway on 17th Street, turn right (south) onto Tenth Avenue.
(4)Caitlin I.
The Oysters Rockefeller are on point! They have a frothy creamy heavenly whip on top that will be part of my last meal. I had the Chilean seabass, it was amazing but then again Chilean seabass is always amazing, IMO. Boyfriend had Mahi topped with crabmeat, I think. To be perfectly honest my seabass was my only concern, it was THAT good. The portion was large! I was stuffed, everyone enjoyed their food. Bathrooms had cloth napkins...soooo fancyyyyy. The menus cracked me up, my dad, who is older loved them, it's the only place I haven't seen him turn his phone flashlight on to read the menu (they light up when you open them). Service was great and our waiter had some input on what dishes to try. This place is pricy, I'd only come for a special occasion because I'm a poor twenty-something but it's worth coming at least once!
(4)Juan T.
We were in Lauderdale on business last week and thought we would try their new location as we had eaten at the old location in the past. The new place is really big but beautiful. I saw several of the old waiters that were at the old location. They have a really nice bar with live music. We had steaks and pasta. Both dishes were prepared perfectly. I had the chocolate soufflé and it was wonderful. The service is flawless and they also have a great wine selection. Can't wait to return.
(5)Don S.
Still as good as ever with excellent food, atmosphere and service. Loved it. Jerry is an excellent manager as well. Bar hops on weekend evenings.
(5)Carolyn C.
Loved this place!!! Our meal was extraordinary, service was top notch and the food was so amazing... Our waiter Robert clearly loved his job... His eyes sparkled when he described the specials... He took great care of our crew. Enjoyed the ambiance, the menus even lit up so you could see them! From appetizers, to drinks, main dishes and desserts...they were all great in my book. Not a single complaint from our visit. I would love to visit here again.
(5)Chuck L.
Would have like to have given them four and one-half stars...so consider this review four and one-half stars! Eight-fifteen reservations for Friday night (my new sweetheart's 60th birthday...and a babe to boot!) Arrived at approximately 7:45PM. Greeted by enthusiastic valet service! Go figure! Not kids, but real valet gentlemen who started off the evening perfectly! Short trip to the front desk, verified reservations and mentioned that we would be sitting at the bar for a cocktail before dinner. "No problem, make sure you enjoy and I'll come and get you later'. No 15 minutes, no 10 minutes, but just 'later'! Perfect. I'm quite comfortable already. By the way, the place is magnificently beautiful. Very friendly bartenders who were clad in nondescript clothing i.e. no uniforms, but rather clothing that suggested I was at someones home for a party. Very comfortable atmosphere! Well stocked bar by the way! About 25 minutes later, a young lady came by to let us know our table was ready if 'we were ready'...Nice! no push no rush....and the place was NOT empty...they didn't have to do this! On the way over to the table the hostess mentioned that she was taking us to a very quiet table where we could converse without yelling at each other....noise level was moderate and conducive to conversation, yet our table was extra special! I mentioned when making reservations that it was a 'special' occasion ....it did not fall on deaf ears! Waiter strolled by about 3 minutes later and in a very friendly fashion asked if our drinks were OK and if we needed refills....would be back to discuss menu...very polite, friendly and good natured! Kudos to him! Waiter returned with our drinks (we asked to have them refreshed) and explained the specials...upon his return, my date needed clarification and was offered such. She decided upon the Maryland crab cakes and I ordered the yellow snapper. A mozzarella caprese appetizer was order and arrived with perfect timing. Excellent cheese...tomatoes were so so, but that seems par for the course as of late. No blame here! Dinner arrived perfectly timed and discretely without fanfare...polite and professional and 'light'...no pretense here...serious yet very friendly! Dinner was good...my date raved about the crab cakes and were everything the waiter claimed....my fish was OK...nothing overly special but NO complaints...when you're in love, food is not going under the microscope although in all seriousness, it was quite good. A shared cheesecake (HUGH slice!) was enjoyed by the both of us.... A trip to the lounge for a last drink and some music. GREAT piano player with a great voice and a great lounge 'repertoire' made a great finale to our evening! The piano player even stopped mid-lyrics to call out 'good night' to us! What a fantastic touch to a great evening! Whenever a special event is taking place in your life, this is the place to celebrate...yet I will return for those 'special' dinners with my 'special' someone in the very near future! Thank you for a great evening not soon forgotten!
(5)Rocki R.
one of my fav restaurants. Food is always good, Service is always great. When they first moved to the much larger new location i thought they may lose their quality and coziness but they didn't. We usually get the filet and seabass but have tried most everything on the menu and never been disappointed.
(5)Diana N.
Very classy, almost looks like you re walking into a nice hotel. Unfortunately I ordered a lobster roll which i thought was terrible. I'd like to go back to order a different dish. I feel like this place deserves another try.
(2)Richard A.
Wonderful food, service and atmosphere. Every year we dine there when visiting Ft Lauderdale. Even though we miss the old location because of its energy and jammed dining atmosphere, the consistant fantastic food makes the more open and elegant new venue make us forget. So many good things. But I love their Caesar, bisque and veal.
(4)Susan H.
One of the best restaurants around. The food is over the top great, service is phenomenal, atmosphere is good, and one of the best happy hours with half off drinks from 3:-7pm and bites. Both lunch and dinner choices are excellent. For dinner, I had the Lamb, buttermilk potatoes, and asparagus which was delightful. The house Cab wine is good. The bread pudding and apple pie desserts along with cappuccino was outstanding. I highly recommend Bistro Mezzaluna for a 100% guarantee great meal.
(5)Ziva A.
This place has the best Oyster Happy Hour deal ever! A dozen was only $12- they were a buck each!!! Super fresh and normally double the price. Its a very elegant restaurant that offers a fine dining experience. We sat at the bar and received excellent service from the bartender; she was very sweet and attentive. The shrimp in buffalo sauce was very delicious. This restaurant is pricey but the best time to go is during HH so you get the rocking deal!
(5)S F.
This is by far the best italian I have had since leaving nj 8 years ago. I started with the arugula salad and then the chicken (left off the sausage) and rigatoni with balsamic. I am not a huge balsamic person but this was delicious!! I will be back!!!!
(5)Susan E.
Great bar and Happy Hour with piano and terrific appetizers! Restaurant and bar have nice ambience as well as good food. Good place for lunch too!
(4)narisa s.
This restaurant is amazing. The service is so professional and the ambiance is sophisticated and private. Food is to die for. Reccomend for sure
(5)Ryan O.
Had an awful experience here a few months back. Live a stones throw away and had never come here. My gf and I met a couple at the Grateful Palate earlier in the evening and they raved about the happy hour here. Considering its a few blocks away we figured we'd give it a quick try. My drink preferences are, many times, classic cocktails and unfortunately it's very hard to find anyone who knows how to properly make them. That being said I am always more than willing to instruct them how to make them. Most take no longer than a martini. So we sit down and I ask her if she knows how to make a sidecar and she says yes. I see her go over to her phone to look it up which I'm fine with... It's only 3 ingredients and it is only to be served up. She served it to me on the rocks. I courteously corrected her and asked her to just strain out the ice and put it in a cocktail glass. A server who was just standing around says, mind you I'm a good 20-25 feet away, "Maybe he should learn how to order his drink!" Holy sweet heavens did that infuriate me!! Another example of the epitome of god awful hospitality workers that are somehow employed in South Florida. Instead of going to a manager I went to speak to the bartender and this server privately to try to resolve the situation. Bartender was pleasant throughout. The server literally laughed in my face. I tried giving her a chance to redeem herself and I'm not standing for anymore of that BS so I asked for the GM and explained what happened. He comped us our drinks, I left the bartender a very generous tip and didn't care to stick around for what was to happen to the server but I sure hope they fired her. I've never been so offended at a restaurant.
(2)Joshua B.
lobster bisque - awesome. Black grouper n green beans - awesome. Great wine - even better.
(5)Holly G.
Food is always a winner, bartenders lovely, However why oh why the need for the new larger place.. its lost its ambience, I so miss the other place, this is stark, boring and too much like a cheap banquet hall, the parking lot reminds me of a macaroni grill, when its a class act all the way..i miss the old days
(5)Darryn T.
Once again, full disclosure, I am a vegetarian (eggs and cheese) and Italian food is a great go to. Normally. Nearly zero choices on the menu. No eggplant parmigiana, nothing. When I told my server I expected more vegetarian selections at an Italian restaurant her response was, "Oh, we are northern Italian." Okay, fair enough. Dark and noisy with the ambiance of, and another reviewer already mentioned it, a hotel lobby. Perhaps the food would have been okay, I'll never know. Good luck.
(2)Astrid S.
Went there for lunch. The place looks amazing, the decor is beautiful. It's perfect for business lunches as well as date night. I had the Mahi Mahi - one of the best meals I've had in months. Absolutely delicious. The husband had Rigatoni with Bolognese - he loved his dish as well. The only thing, the service was a bit slow, they seemed very understaffed. But otherwise great experience, I will definitely be back.
(5)Ralphie M.
Great upper casual atmosphere with relaxed dining. Excellent service and authentic Italian food.
(5)Wendy S.
I had been at the old location many years ago, loved it, and when we were in the area and saw the new location, we decided to go again. We did not have a reservation on a friday night, so they pressed us to go outside. I was hesitant, but it was beautiful out, so when they said " just check it out.", I am glad we did! Charming covered patio with a big fountain that was not too loud and with t he small white lights everywhere it was charming. Our server was great. Very attentive amd made sure I always had water. That is a pet peeve of mine, so I enjoyed that. The LED menus are fun, as it is dim outside (and inside) so really necessary. The menu was varied, and i ended up with the veal piccata and BF had the Pasta Bolognese. Mine was good. It was a bit salty, and the broccolini sauteed with garlic and olive oil was a bit bitter, but the veal was tender and perfectly cooked. It came with roasted potatoes. A nice meal, but more a $26-27 meal, not $32. BF liked his pasta bolognese, good mix of beef, pork and veal in the sauce. But more of a $21-22 dish than a $24. Side salad was $10, which i think is pretty high for a garden salad. Desserts looked really good,but we passed. I remember it being amazing, and it is still good, but really no different than a lot of other nice Italian restaurants. But the covered pation is beautiful!
(3)Jim D.
Went there tonight with Master Yelper Marqus R. and as you enter it's like walking into someone's home. The hostess greets you with a smile and escorts you to your table. It is nice and the Restaurant is very confortable,not formal or stuffy. You are handed the menu which is about a ton because the whole menu lights up, something I have never seen. I had the scallops which were good, and a shrimp appetizer also very good. . The service was very fast and Alex was very helpful our waiter. Good food, good drink , and good company. you can't go bad with that combination for the noise well there must have been a lot of New Yorkers there. Last month I ate dinner at John's Pizzeria near Times Square. it was like rush hour at Grand Central Station
(4)Larry D.
We are on town on business and were informed of this restaurant by some friends. We got there after 9 pm. And they still had some business. The bar was lively and they had a booth in there available. We listened to the live music and had a great dinner. The place has great service and the food was as good as I have had in this town. We will eat here next time in town
(5)Maryann C.
The decor is beautiful, the lighted menus a wonderful idea, our server Waz was amazing...first class! Parts of the food were great...oysters, Caesar salad, flour less chocolate cake (to die for) the fish was good, spinach great a nice meal, yes, pricey. The music after dinner at the bar was the perfect touch to a beautiful anniversary evening.
(4)S K.
A quiet night for the restaurant on a Sunday at 7:30pm. Exceptional service and four excellent dinners plus appetizers. Great crab cakes, porterhouse, calamari, lobster bisque. All was delicious. Lovely atmosphere.
(5)Thomas R.
Love this place. Great happy hour love the food. We eat dinner out 7 nights a week and this is one of our favs. Love the oysters and the seafood appetizer salad.
(5)Umar G.
The food at Mezzaluna can be described as lush. The best ingredients, not too overworked ... cooked just enough to bring out their ... lusciousness. :) We started with the spring rolls and the calamari. The spring rolls were not greasy and had a nice mango salsa accompaniement. The calamari had been coated with a tempura rice batter (I think) and so the breading was airy and crisp and complemented soft chewiness of the rings. Our salad was a caeser with garlic croutons. The lettuce was crisp, the salad was not overly dressed and had generous, thick shavings of a nutty reggiano. My main course was the filet mignon as was my partners. I had mine rare and he had his medium rare. Both came out done to perfection. The sides (usually mushy) were well seasoned and the home fries were crisp chunks of potato elevated to a higher level. Finally we come to the piece de resistance. Ina Garten says everybody remembers dessert and she was spot on in this case. My cheesecake was to die for! The filling was light and airy and not overly sweet. The crust was crisp enough to provide a nice contrast, and if one's bite got too creamy, there was a schmear of raspberry sauce on the plate to provide just enough tart to want to continue eating the cake. All in all Mezzaluna delivers. It seems to be that their credo may be that if you get the best ingredients and treat them just right, they'll treat you right in return. If you have a special night coming up, give this one a try.
(4)Night Ryder I.
Classy place. Great food. Half pound Bistro Burger looked small but was very filling, sweet roasted pepper relish was delicious. Luv the thin fries. Cool lighted menu. Pamper yourself with a visit to this establishment.
(5)Diane S.
Went here for our anniversary dinner. We sat at the bar when we first got there and they seemed to have a decent happy hour crowd and drink prices were good. We were seated for dinner and service and food was just mediocre. I ordered the scallops and my bf ordered rack of lamb. Very pricy and we were not impressed.
(3)Howard N.
They have gotten too big. This was the second year that it wasn't very good. In fact, this year it was terrible. We were a party of eight and after a little over two hours we left after the waiter announced he had forgotten to submit our order. Not good.
(2)Sarah P.
I like this place, I do. HOWEVER, the food is overpriced for what it is (one colossal shrimp for the shrimp cocktail is $6.75). I don't judge by price alone, but the taste of the food we ordered didn't totally "wow" me. I give the service 5 stars, and the atmosphere and wine menu 4 stars. They have live music (piano and singer) on weekend nights and the bar area is really comfortable in an old school way. It is definitely an older crowd, but not in a creepy meet-market sort of way. It just offers a slower pace for a Friday or Saturday night if that's what you're in the mood for. They serve lunch as well, and have a private room upstairs for corporate or social events. I agree with some of the other reviewers that it's a great "meet the parents" sort of restaurant, and the LED light up menus save my boyfriend the embarrassment of asking to use the Flashlight app on my phone:)
(3)rachel u.
I've heard Bistro Mezzaluna mentioned many times, and was excited to check it out for myself! I got a one-a-day deal for a $50 for 25. We ordered the arugula salad, simple, but good. I was disappointed by the meatballs, figured a place like Mezzaluna would have out-of-this-world meatballs. They were good, but not amazing. The sauce they were in was delicious though, wish the meatballs had met the perfection of their sauce... For dinner, rack of lamb with mashed potato, sauteed spinach, and roasted tomatoes topped with goat cheese. These tomatoes made the dish, the mild goat cheese with the tomato went perfectly with the perfectly prepared lamb. Chocolate cake was awesome and a scoop of coffee/mocha chip ice cream served on the side was good, too. Good service, although a bit slow, I'm pretty sure he was over compensating for not making us feel rushed. They were booked for 9pm reservations, so we went in at 930.
(4)Lorraine U.
Wonderful meal there last night. Arugala salad and truffle mac and cheese to die! Will be back.
(5)Louise H.
I have to admit I wasn't expecting to enjoy Mezzaluna- its in my neighborhood and I've always heard it was for the 40+ crowd and a meat market for Ft. Laud's aging bachelors, however the food was so outstanding that I can ignore it. I went with my family and was very impressed by the huge portions that I feel justify the pricey ticket prices. We had the oysters, which apparently sell for a $1 each during happy hour (we missed it) and a beautiful and entree-sized heirloom salad, which was a tad overdressed. My father had the lobster mac'n'cheese, which is his usual and I was pleasantly surprised at the hugeness of the dish and that it wasn't too rich- I was expecting a little cast iron skillet oozing with fat a la Rok Burger. My stepmother and friend had the seafood pasta which is honestly about 3lbs of spaghetti, biggest scallops I've ever seen, clams, lobster and shrimp- plenty of leftovers for the next week! Trying to keep with my "diet" I had the yellowtail snapper with capers, tomatoes and crab meat and substituted the mashed potatoes for extra asparagus and spinach. Very lovely and light although I felt the crab didn't do anything to the dish. Would definetly go back- lovely evening.
(4)Brittany M.
No way around it...this place is amazing! Definitely a slightly older crowd (I'm 24 so older than me but not necessarily old old) but that could be because it is very pricey. Portions are huge though and so fresh/delcious. Linguine and clams are out of this world! This is a great place to take your parents when they come in town for a visit. Took mine and my boyfriend's parents and everyone raved the whole time!
(5)Jo W.
First impressions - a nice restaurant that caters to the sophisticated! Once inside, it was a little dark (considering it was not dark outside yet), but still a pleasant ambiance nonetheless. To compensate for the dark atmosphere, the presented menus light up so that you are able to see it. Thoughtful choice, but did the lighted menus come about as a result of having a poorly lit restaurant, or did they make the restaurant dark because they thought lighted menus would be cool? Regardless, after looking over the menu and struggling to decided what to get, I ceased the day and ordered the Pan Roasted Yellowtail Snapper that comes with a white wine sauces, lump crab, capers and a side of mashed potatoes and sautéed asparagus. White sauces scare me because they just look tasteless but I was pleasantly surprise by a delectable piece of flaky fish and a slightly tangy, but tasty sauce. My fiancé had the Skirt Steak with Arugula Salad, Frites and Chimichurri Sauce, a pretty standard meal in South Florida. The Arugula Salad left something to be desired, but the marvelous steak and accompanying Frites and Chimichurri Sauce more than compensated for that. The steak was a great, tender cut of meat. After having such a satisfying meal, dessert was a no brainer. We took up the offer to try the Chef's Special Chocolate Bread Pudding and it was quite impressive. It was the right consistency, the right amount of sweetness and oh so good. I didn't leave without trying one of their cocktails. At the waiter's suggestion, I tried a Raspberry Mojito. It was strong and fresh. They are known for their Happy Hour, so at the discounted price, it would definitely worth it. The food and drinks was amazing, but it is good to know that service was exceptional as well. We got really lucky and got a very friendly, upbeat server who was not only professional but engaging and equally as wonderful as well. All around dinner was great I would definitely come again.
(4)Morris M.
Sorry, but I felt a bit uncomfortable in this restaurant. It's just too stuffy and full of over-privileged rich folk. Kind of looks like a hotel lobby really. The food is quite expensive, but to their credit it is tasty and fresh. This may be something you do for an anniversary perhaps, but not every day.
(3)Adrianna U.
So.... i don't get to experience restaurants like this often, so is it too hard to expect an extraordinary meal? I guess that was my problem. I expected to be really satisfied and all i got was good, but not great... ya feelz me? I went with a group and sampled many of the appetizers. this included shrimp Spring Rolls, which weren't too bad. I also tried the crab cakes which were pretty tasty. For my meal, i had the Fra Diavolo, but I also got to try the seafood pasta. First off, I couldn't really tell the difference between the two. I understand the Fra is supposed to be spicier, but they seriously tasted like they came from the same sauce. Maybe it's my unsophisticated palete xD Pasta was fine. Not the best thing I tasted, so it was kind of a let down when you're paying almost $40 dollars for it. It didn't have too much sauce and it's flavors weren't too on point. Not terrible, of course, or anything unbearable to eat. Just not even close to the best pasta i've had. Switching subjects, the ambiance is very nice. Inside is like a little mansion/house. Bathrooms are very classy. They had cloth napkins, and I wasn't even sure where to put them when i was done xD We sat on the outside with nice sparkling lights. Makes you feel like your in a European city, until you realize your in a meh area of Ft. Lauderdale.
(3)Marqus R.
Oh yeah! Now we're talking about a really great place. It's really a class act place. I've been going to Bistro Mezzaluna for a number of years, starting off at their prior location over on 17th Causeway. Now they've moved into what was formerly Rio, a big, sumptuous, elegant facility. They have a beautiful lobby, bar/lounge area, inside dinning room and shaded outside patio with a nice fountain which when seated with older men I tend to avoid because of what seems to be the resultant effects of running water seems to have on their enlarged prostates. Excuse me for pointing that out, but some people really do need to know about that. The service is professional, totally top notch and the food, though somewhat on the pricey sides is top quality, properly prepared, elegantly presented and generally worth it. One thing that they have that most other restaurants do not have is high tech background illuminating menus. So, no matter the lighting and even if you have poor vision, the menus are easily read.
(4)Bruce K.
I let my friend the Internet millionaire choose and I was sorta hoping that he might spring for the check. Oh well. It was still an absolutely top notch excellent meal. I had a beer in the bar while I waited for my friend to show up. We were then shown to a nice table outside (it was only 75, so it was cool). Another table had the buffalo mozzarella salad and it looked excellent, so I had that to start. A good choice. Some big pieces of fresh beefsteak tomatoes and slices of creamy mozzarella cheese with three big roasted peppers. It was enough for two. For my main, I had the chicken and sausage pasta. Lots of thin sliced pamesan on top, it had an excellent rich flavor and a really yummy brothy sauce mixed through. So much, I ended up taking half of it home to leave room for dessert. A piece of key lime pie. The side was let down a bit here - it was nice and creamy, but it wasn't as tart as I would have liked. The crust was good - I ate all of that and maybe a third of the pie. As Michelle mentions, a great place for a date. Good ambiance and good service and good food. You can skip the valet parking - the lot is plenty big. Note: The map pin is slightly off. East of Federal Highway on 17th Street, turn right (south) onto Tenth Avenue.
(4)Astrid S.
Went there for lunch. The place looks amazing, the decor is beautiful. It's perfect for business lunches as well as date night. I had the Mahi Mahi - one of the best meals I've had in months. Absolutely delicious. The husband had Rigatoni with Bolognese - he loved his dish as well. The only thing, the service was a bit slow, they seemed very understaffed. But otherwise great experience, I will definitely be back.
(5)Ralphie M.
Great upper casual atmosphere with relaxed dining. Excellent service and authentic Italian food.
(5)Susan E.
Great bar and Happy Hour with piano and terrific appetizers! Restaurant and bar have nice ambience as well as good food. Good place for lunch too!
(4)narisa s.
This restaurant is amazing. The service is so professional and the ambiance is sophisticated and private. Food is to die for. Reccomend for sure
(5)Wendy S.
I had been at the old location many years ago, loved it, and when we were in the area and saw the new location, we decided to go again. We did not have a reservation on a friday night, so they pressed us to go outside. I was hesitant, but it was beautiful out, so when they said " just check it out.", I am glad we did! Charming covered patio with a big fountain that was not too loud and with t he small white lights everywhere it was charming. Our server was great. Very attentive amd made sure I always had water. That is a pet peeve of mine, so I enjoyed that. The LED menus are fun, as it is dim outside (and inside) so really necessary. The menu was varied, and i ended up with the veal piccata and BF had the Pasta Bolognese. Mine was good. It was a bit salty, and the broccolini sauteed with garlic and olive oil was a bit bitter, but the veal was tender and perfectly cooked. It came with roasted potatoes. A nice meal, but more a $26-27 meal, not $32. BF liked his pasta bolognese, good mix of beef, pork and veal in the sauce. But more of a $21-22 dish than a $24. Side salad was $10, which i think is pretty high for a garden salad. Desserts looked really good,but we passed. I remember it being amazing, and it is still good, but really no different than a lot of other nice Italian restaurants. But the covered pation is beautiful!
(3)Jim D.
Went there tonight with Master Yelper Marqus R. and as you enter it's like walking into someone's home. The hostess greets you with a smile and escorts you to your table. It is nice and the Restaurant is very confortable,not formal or stuffy. You are handed the menu which is about a ton because the whole menu lights up, something I have never seen. I had the scallops which were good, and a shrimp appetizer also very good. . The service was very fast and Alex was very helpful our waiter. Good food, good drink , and good company. you can't go bad with that combination for the noise well there must have been a lot of New Yorkers there. Last month I ate dinner at John's Pizzeria near Times Square. it was like rush hour at Grand Central Station
(4)Larry D.
We are on town on business and were informed of this restaurant by some friends. We got there after 9 pm. And they still had some business. The bar was lively and they had a booth in there available. We listened to the live music and had a great dinner. The place has great service and the food was as good as I have had in this town. We will eat here next time in town
(5)Darryn T.
Once again, full disclosure, I am a vegetarian (eggs and cheese) and Italian food is a great go to. Normally. Nearly zero choices on the menu. No eggplant parmigiana, nothing. When I told my server I expected more vegetarian selections at an Italian restaurant her response was, "Oh, we are northern Italian." Okay, fair enough. Dark and noisy with the ambiance of, and another reviewer already mentioned it, a hotel lobby. Perhaps the food would have been okay, I'll never know. Good luck.
(2)John C.
Bistro Mezzaluna has been around since before 1995 - a lifetime in restaurant years. For a while, it was one of a few "see and be seen" eateries where local movers & shakers would vie for preferred seating. Although that is still somewhat the case, the addition of more options, including Casa D'Angelo, Jacksons and Riley McDermiitt's has made it possible to walk in to Mezzaluna on a Satiurday night without a reservation and be immediately seated, which is exactly what I did last night with three friends. I must say that the service was absolutely impeccable. Our server, Phillip had great suggestions and never made us feel rushed. He timed the courses perfectly and the dishes (sea bass, yellowtail, pasta puttenesca) were evenly good with one exception. The seafood pasta, which the server mentioned was his favorite dish on the menu, consisted of large sea scallops, shrimp, clams and lobster, served over a light, fresh tomato and olive oil sauce and garnished with a large bunch of fresh basil neded the kick provided by the crushed red pepper that the server brought on the side. More importantly, the lobster tail had been previously frozen and was impossible to remove from the shell. When I brought this the the server's attention, he offered to bring a freshly cooked tail, but that also had been previously frozen and stuck to the shell, although somewhat less so. For the price ($39.00) Mezzaluna should be using fresh lobster tail in this dish. The reality is that the dish would have been just as good without the lobster, which didn't contribute much flavor. Other than that one misstep from the kitchen, we thouroughly enjoyed our Saturday night Mezzaluna experience. The restaurant is visually very appealing, with warm natural woods and fabrics, and the lighting is perfect, with pendant lamps lighting the booths and candles on the tables. Competition is good for restaurant patrons, and now that Mezzaluna is not one of the only high-end games in town, they seemed to truly appreciate our business. If you go, ask to be seated at one of Phillip's tables. He is one of the best waiters I have experienced anywhere. Parking note: Mezzaluna is located in a strip mall. Bypass the valet. Self-parking is plentiful in the lot directly in front of the restaurant..
(4)Alex S.
I've eaten here - and done take out - several times and their pasta is really really good. I usually get the rigatoni bolognese, which is great. A little lighter than a typical bolognese, not creamy, but it's delicious. Their pasta servings are huge. They can seriously feed at leasat two and maybe three people as an entree. They are expensive too. Personally, I'd rather pay half the price for half the food, but at least you'll be left with great leftovers.
(4)Shelby C.
Wonderful meal! Great service, ambiance, and the food was excellent! The best Chilean sea bass I ever had in my life. We visited late night during the week....off season...so we were seated right away (no reservations) We heard that it can be a long wait at other times. Can't wait to go back!!
(5)Ashley D.
Try the firecracker shrimp that is on their happy hour menu! They are amazing! My boyfriend loves the king crab legs and I love their steaks with the bourdelais sauce and a side of mushrooms!
(5)Rocki R.
one of my fav restaurants. Food is always good, Service is always great. When they first moved to the much larger new location i thought they may lose their quality and coziness but they didn't. We usually get the filet and seabass but have tried most everything on the menu and never been disappointed.
(5)Elizabeth P.
Came here last night for dinner and it was superb! The food was very well prepared and seasoned and our waiter paid very close attention to all the needs of everyone there.
(5)Courtney C.
LOVED this place. We live within walking distance and have been waiting for an occasion to try it out. We stopped in on 4th of July before heading out to catch the fireworks. It was empty when we arrived (likely due to the holiday) but we had the back patio to ourselves (and our pup). Service was fantastic- our waiter Alex was great. We ordered the buffalo shrimp to start, which was so outstanding, that my boyfriend ordered a second plate. For our entrees, we chose the lobster humedor special and the yellow snapper. No kidding, the lobster humedor was one of the most exquisite dishes I've ever eaten. Complete with two lobster tails, sauteed spinach, mushrooms, and fresh pasta, I am still dreaming about it.
(5)Susan J.
Awesome place !! The food is so good it melts in your mouth the staff is awesome . Place is gorgeous ask for Waz !!!
(5)Kinjal K.
I went to this restaurant for happy hour with my friends. It was fairly crowded when we arrived. We were seated at a long table arrangement next to the bar. The service was a little slow because they only had two people working the bar. One was steadily behind the bar and the other was going to all the tables taking orders. There were way too many people there. She should have had help. I first ordered the meatballs. The portion was small and they lacked in flavor. I was not satisfied and decided to try the baked brie. That was okay, but I was not a fan of the nuts inside. I finally decided to try the Maryland crab cake. That was actually pretty good!! I was not a fan of the basil martini I ordered, and I decided not to order anymore from the bar. All in all, I don't think I'll be returning to this restaurant. The service was too slow, and the food was not worth the prices. Trying all those dishes and not finding one I liked left me craving something simple, like a burger.
(3)Caitlin I.
The Oysters Rockefeller are on point! They have a frothy creamy heavenly whip on top that will be part of my last meal. I had the Chilean seabass, it was amazing but then again Chilean seabass is always amazing, IMO. Boyfriend had Mahi topped with crabmeat, I think. To be perfectly honest my seabass was my only concern, it was THAT good. The portion was large! I was stuffed, everyone enjoyed their food. Bathrooms had cloth napkins...soooo fancyyyyy. The menus cracked me up, my dad, who is older loved them, it's the only place I haven't seen him turn his phone flashlight on to read the menu (they light up when you open them). Service was great and our waiter had some input on what dishes to try. This place is pricy, I'd only come for a special occasion because I'm a poor twenty-something but it's worth coming at least once!
(4)Juan T.
We were in Lauderdale on business last week and thought we would try their new location as we had eaten at the old location in the past. The new place is really big but beautiful. I saw several of the old waiters that were at the old location. They have a really nice bar with live music. We had steaks and pasta. Both dishes were prepared perfectly. I had the chocolate soufflé and it was wonderful. The service is flawless and they also have a great wine selection. Can't wait to return.
(5)Don S.
Still as good as ever with excellent food, atmosphere and service. Loved it. Jerry is an excellent manager as well. Bar hops on weekend evenings.
(5)Kerri Y.
Exceptional Dining experience, great place for date night. I went here the suggestion of the hotel and they did not steer me wrong. As other reviews say the restuarnt is clean, classy and just fantastic service. The backlit menus were a great touch. The wine and food are beyond excellent. We started with the Homemade meatballs on suggestion of the waiter and they were scrumptious. We both had steak and both were excellent peices of meat. After dinner we hit the piano bar for some after dinner port. The atmosphere was more casual and the crowd that hung around was on the older side. Overall still great. It was a little pricey- but what you would expect to pay at any higher quality restaurant. I would recommend this place to any one visiting Ft. Lauderdale.
(5)Mr. H.
Came in for a quick meal and the food was so delicious and the staff was perfect. I ordered the free range organic chicken with potatoes and salad and I would definitely order that again.!!
(5)Heidi M.
First impressions mean everything... The restaurant is very classy and pristine. Low lighting and menus that light up . Dress up or come in slacks and a nice top,just dress classy. Service: 4 table staff. One gave our menus and told us the special. As well as took our orders for drinks and appetizers. Another gave us our bread. Another was our bus boy and a 4th took our main order. I was a bit confused as to who our main waiter was. Unfortunately it was the later who seemed unfriendly, abrupt and would walk away before I could finish my sentence. Rarely smiled and seemed annoyed. Food: You receive a basket of bread and delicious wheat and grain crackers. I ordered the seafood pasta ($39) full of seafood , 1/2 lobster tail, sea scallops, clams, shrimp and calamari all cooked to perfection. BUT the pasta was overcooked. A bit too soft almost mushy. The sauce was delicious. Our other meal was the special, Halibut ($39) in a white mild lemon butter sauce ..absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection. It was offered with risotto but and asparagus. Dessert key lime pie with a raspberry sauce yummy ($10) and I had a glass of Chianti ($10) and a cocktail ($12) I would give the wait staff 5 stars if it were not for the waiter we ended up with and the confusion of who was our waiter. I give 4 stars Food 4 stars due to over cooked pasta, it really should be slightly aldente. Otherwise food was Delicious. Bathrooms 2stars, bring your night goggles. It is so dark in the bathrooms that I barely could see my lips close up to the mirror as I tried to put some lip gloss on. Truthfully with what we pay for dinner they surely can afford a few light fixtures in the ladies room so we can see how we look let alone the soap and faucet. Over all 4 stars... They would have had 5 if not for the pasta and unfriendly waiter. Would I go back. Yes on a special occasion. And would avoid the pasta and that waitor
(4)Jean F.
Valentine's Day at Mezzaluna was a romantic evening. We sat on the terrace which was lovely and warmed with heated lamps. Maryland crab cakes where delicious. Our server was very helpful explaining the specials. We had prime rib which was cooked to perfection and a very ample portion. My husband loved the yellow snapper, the sauce was rich without being overpowering, tarragon and capers what a great combination. I'm embarrassed to say our plates were practically licked cleaned. The flour less chocolate cake we paired with the coconut sorbet, just yummy! The bill was hefty, but well worth it for an extra special evening.
(5)Joe B.
Top notch ambiance, food and service! Valet or park yourself and walk in from close in front. Italian style seafood and steaks made to perfection. great service and presentation. Real hand drying towels in the bathroom and over the top touch. A couples dream date dinner place for sure.
(5)Richard A.
Wonderful food, service and atmosphere. Every year we dine there when visiting Ft Lauderdale. Even though we miss the old location because of its energy and jammed dining atmosphere, the consistant fantastic food makes the more open and elegant new venue make us forget. So many good things. But I love their Caesar, bisque and veal.
(4)Carolyn C.
Loved this place!!! Our meal was extraordinary, service was top notch and the food was so amazing... Our waiter Robert clearly loved his job... His eyes sparkled when he described the specials... He took great care of our crew. Enjoyed the ambiance, the menus even lit up so you could see them! From appetizers, to drinks, main dishes and desserts...they were all great in my book. Not a single complaint from our visit. I would love to visit here again.
(5)Chuck L.
Would have like to have given them four and one-half stars...so consider this review four and one-half stars! Eight-fifteen reservations for Friday night (my new sweetheart's 60th birthday...and a babe to boot!) Arrived at approximately 7:45PM. Greeted by enthusiastic valet service! Go figure! Not kids, but real valet gentlemen who started off the evening perfectly! Short trip to the front desk, verified reservations and mentioned that we would be sitting at the bar for a cocktail before dinner. "No problem, make sure you enjoy and I'll come and get you later'. No 15 minutes, no 10 minutes, but just 'later'! Perfect. I'm quite comfortable already. By the way, the place is magnificently beautiful. Very friendly bartenders who were clad in nondescript clothing i.e. no uniforms, but rather clothing that suggested I was at someones home for a party. Very comfortable atmosphere! Well stocked bar by the way! About 25 minutes later, a young lady came by to let us know our table was ready if 'we were ready'...Nice! no push no rush....and the place was NOT empty...they didn't have to do this! On the way over to the table the hostess mentioned that she was taking us to a very quiet table where we could converse without yelling at each other....noise level was moderate and conducive to conversation, yet our table was extra special! I mentioned when making reservations that it was a 'special' occasion ....it did not fall on deaf ears! Waiter strolled by about 3 minutes later and in a very friendly fashion asked if our drinks were OK and if we needed refills....would be back to discuss menu...very polite, friendly and good natured! Kudos to him! Waiter returned with our drinks (we asked to have them refreshed) and explained the specials...upon his return, my date needed clarification and was offered such. She decided upon the Maryland crab cakes and I ordered the yellow snapper. A mozzarella caprese appetizer was order and arrived with perfect timing. Excellent cheese...tomatoes were so so, but that seems par for the course as of late. No blame here! Dinner arrived perfectly timed and discretely without fanfare...polite and professional and 'light'...no pretense here...serious yet very friendly! Dinner was good...my date raved about the crab cakes and were everything the waiter claimed....my fish was OK...nothing overly special but NO complaints...when you're in love, food is not going under the microscope although in all seriousness, it was quite good. A shared cheesecake (HUGH slice!) was enjoyed by the both of us.... A trip to the lounge for a last drink and some music. GREAT piano player with a great voice and a great lounge 'repertoire' made a great finale to our evening! The piano player even stopped mid-lyrics to call out 'good night' to us! What a fantastic touch to a great evening! Whenever a special event is taking place in your life, this is the place to celebrate...yet I will return for those 'special' dinners with my 'special' someone in the very near future! Thank you for a great evening not soon forgotten!
(5)Jesus R.
This place exudes class. It's intimate, with lovely lighting and smooth melodies traveling from the piano bar adding to the charm. The service is impeccable. The waitstaff has the right mix of charm and professionalism. This is the type of place you take your lady to, wine her, dine her, ask the piano player to play a Donnie Hathaway song and slow dance with her as if no one is watching. Of course, everyone will, but that's still what you should do, dammit!
(4)Dara B.
Off the beaten path of 17th Street Causeway, is this quaint place. Excellent happy hour 4-7pm. The bar area gets packed during those times but lingers away after 7. I highly recommend the baked brie!!!
(5)Mark S.
Went in for dinner with my family while on vacation. After seated we were greeted by Phil our waiter. He was so knowledgable and passionate about the menu, and his personal favorites. He started us with wine which was very nice. Then to a Wedge salad and a shrimp cocktail with shrimp the size of my hand that was excellent. Our main dishes were Free Range Chicken, veal parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs and I had a Ribeye steak. I have eaten at some of the best steakhouses in NY and this was probably the best ribeye I ever had. For dessert we had Apple crumb, NY cheesecake, flourless chocolate cake and the special berry pie. All were outstanding. The price was not cheap but well worth it for the exquisite meal that we had. Thanks Phil for the great service. Your NY friends. PS the light up menus were awesome
(5)Gary L.
Great service even right at closing time. Had wedge salad with a great dressing along with special of the day fish. Martinis were mixed to perfection. For those on a budget, go to outback. Four in our party and with tax and tip, tab was $300.00. Will be back!
(5)Diana N.
Very classy, almost looks like you re walking into a nice hotel. Unfortunately I ordered a lobster roll which i thought was terrible. I'd like to go back to order a different dish. I feel like this place deserves another try.
(2)Susan H.
One of the best restaurants around. The food is over the top great, service is phenomenal, atmosphere is good, and one of the best happy hours with half off drinks from 3:-7pm and bites. Both lunch and dinner choices are excellent. For dinner, I had the Lamb, buttermilk potatoes, and asparagus which was delightful. The house Cab wine is good. The bread pudding and apple pie desserts along with cappuccino was outstanding. I highly recommend Bistro Mezzaluna for a 100% guarantee great meal.
(5)Ziva A.
This place has the best Oyster Happy Hour deal ever! A dozen was only $12- they were a buck each!!! Super fresh and normally double the price. Its a very elegant restaurant that offers a fine dining experience. We sat at the bar and received excellent service from the bartender; she was very sweet and attentive. The shrimp in buffalo sauce was very delicious. This restaurant is pricey but the best time to go is during HH so you get the rocking deal!
(5)S F.
This is by far the best italian I have had since leaving nj 8 years ago. I started with the arugula salad and then the chicken (left off the sausage) and rigatoni with balsamic. I am not a huge balsamic person but this was delicious!! I will be back!!!!
(5)Ryan O.
Had an awful experience here a few months back. Live a stones throw away and had never come here. My gf and I met a couple at the Grateful Palate earlier in the evening and they raved about the happy hour here. Considering its a few blocks away we figured we'd give it a quick try. My drink preferences are, many times, classic cocktails and unfortunately it's very hard to find anyone who knows how to properly make them. That being said I am always more than willing to instruct them how to make them. Most take no longer than a martini. So we sit down and I ask her if she knows how to make a sidecar and she says yes. I see her go over to her phone to look it up which I'm fine with... It's only 3 ingredients and it is only to be served up. She served it to me on the rocks. I courteously corrected her and asked her to just strain out the ice and put it in a cocktail glass. A server who was just standing around says, mind you I'm a good 20-25 feet away, "Maybe he should learn how to order his drink!" Holy sweet heavens did that infuriate me!! Another example of the epitome of god awful hospitality workers that are somehow employed in South Florida. Instead of going to a manager I went to speak to the bartender and this server privately to try to resolve the situation. Bartender was pleasant throughout. The server literally laughed in my face. I tried giving her a chance to redeem herself and I'm not standing for anymore of that BS so I asked for the GM and explained what happened. He comped us our drinks, I left the bartender a very generous tip and didn't care to stick around for what was to happen to the server but I sure hope they fired her. I've never been so offended at a restaurant.
(2)Joshua B.
lobster bisque - awesome. Black grouper n green beans - awesome. Great wine - even better.
(5)Holly G.
Food is always a winner, bartenders lovely, However why oh why the need for the new larger place.. its lost its ambience, I so miss the other place, this is stark, boring and too much like a cheap banquet hall, the parking lot reminds me of a macaroni grill, when its a class act all the way..i miss the old days
(5)Maryann C.
The decor is beautiful, the lighted menus a wonderful idea, our server Waz was amazing...first class! Parts of the food were great...oysters, Caesar salad, flour less chocolate cake (to die for) the fish was good, spinach great a nice meal, yes, pricey. The music after dinner at the bar was the perfect touch to a beautiful anniversary evening.
(4)S K.
A quiet night for the restaurant on a Sunday at 7:30pm. Exceptional service and four excellent dinners plus appetizers. Great crab cakes, porterhouse, calamari, lobster bisque. All was delicious. Lovely atmosphere.
(5)Thomas R.
Love this place. Great happy hour love the food. We eat dinner out 7 nights a week and this is one of our favs. Love the oysters and the seafood appetizer salad.
(5)Umar G.
The food at Mezzaluna can be described as lush. The best ingredients, not too overworked ... cooked just enough to bring out their ... lusciousness. :) We started with the spring rolls and the calamari. The spring rolls were not greasy and had a nice mango salsa accompaniement. The calamari had been coated with a tempura rice batter (I think) and so the breading was airy and crisp and complemented soft chewiness of the rings. Our salad was a caeser with garlic croutons. The lettuce was crisp, the salad was not overly dressed and had generous, thick shavings of a nutty reggiano. My main course was the filet mignon as was my partners. I had mine rare and he had his medium rare. Both came out done to perfection. The sides (usually mushy) were well seasoned and the home fries were crisp chunks of potato elevated to a higher level. Finally we come to the piece de resistance. Ina Garten says everybody remembers dessert and she was spot on in this case. My cheesecake was to die for! The filling was light and airy and not overly sweet. The crust was crisp enough to provide a nice contrast, and if one's bite got too creamy, there was a schmear of raspberry sauce on the plate to provide just enough tart to want to continue eating the cake. All in all Mezzaluna delivers. It seems to be that their credo may be that if you get the best ingredients and treat them just right, they'll treat you right in return. If you have a special night coming up, give this one a try.
(4)Night Ryder I.
Classy place. Great food. Half pound Bistro Burger looked small but was very filling, sweet roasted pepper relish was delicious. Luv the thin fries. Cool lighted menu. Pamper yourself with a visit to this establishment.
(5)Diane S.
Went here for our anniversary dinner. We sat at the bar when we first got there and they seemed to have a decent happy hour crowd and drink prices were good. We were seated for dinner and service and food was just mediocre. I ordered the scallops and my bf ordered rack of lamb. Very pricy and we were not impressed.
(3)Howard N.
They have gotten too big. This was the second year that it wasn't very good. In fact, this year it was terrible. We were a party of eight and after a little over two hours we left after the waiter announced he had forgotten to submit our order. Not good.
(2)Sarah P.
I like this place, I do. HOWEVER, the food is overpriced for what it is (one colossal shrimp for the shrimp cocktail is $6.75). I don't judge by price alone, but the taste of the food we ordered didn't totally "wow" me. I give the service 5 stars, and the atmosphere and wine menu 4 stars. They have live music (piano and singer) on weekend nights and the bar area is really comfortable in an old school way. It is definitely an older crowd, but not in a creepy meet-market sort of way. It just offers a slower pace for a Friday or Saturday night if that's what you're in the mood for. They serve lunch as well, and have a private room upstairs for corporate or social events. I agree with some of the other reviewers that it's a great "meet the parents" sort of restaurant, and the LED light up menus save my boyfriend the embarrassment of asking to use the Flashlight app on my phone:)
(3)rachel u.
I've heard Bistro Mezzaluna mentioned many times, and was excited to check it out for myself! I got a one-a-day deal for a $50 for 25. We ordered the arugula salad, simple, but good. I was disappointed by the meatballs, figured a place like Mezzaluna would have out-of-this-world meatballs. They were good, but not amazing. The sauce they were in was delicious though, wish the meatballs had met the perfection of their sauce... For dinner, rack of lamb with mashed potato, sauteed spinach, and roasted tomatoes topped with goat cheese. These tomatoes made the dish, the mild goat cheese with the tomato went perfectly with the perfectly prepared lamb. Chocolate cake was awesome and a scoop of coffee/mocha chip ice cream served on the side was good, too. Good service, although a bit slow, I'm pretty sure he was over compensating for not making us feel rushed. They were booked for 9pm reservations, so we went in at 930.
(4)Lorraine U.
Wonderful meal there last night. Arugala salad and truffle mac and cheese to die! Will be back.
(5)Frank D.
TIRAMISU is as good as it gets - period after a show at the broward center for the performing arts this past sunday the early evening lounge here was surprisingly active - i was actually expecting an empty restaurant since it isn't yet season the point of my visit was to have a night-cap (DRAMBUIE) and discuss the performance (LAST CALL with terri girvens) and also to show my daughter the light-up menus plus have dessert (TIRAMISU) i cannot tell you what else they offer BUT to come only for dessert is worth the trip
(5)Elliott L.
Excellent decor, food and service. The light up menus were cute. We got the sesame crusted sear tuna and sea bass....both dishes were so fresh and perfectly seasoned. The apple pie was suggested for 2, it could have handled 4 so worth the price. No wait considering it was prime time on a Saturday night. I would revisit this place anytime I am in town.
(5)Louise H.
I have to admit I wasn't expecting to enjoy Mezzaluna- its in my neighborhood and I've always heard it was for the 40+ crowd and a meat market for Ft. Laud's aging bachelors, however the food was so outstanding that I can ignore it. I went with my family and was very impressed by the huge portions that I feel justify the pricey ticket prices. We had the oysters, which apparently sell for a $1 each during happy hour (we missed it) and a beautiful and entree-sized heirloom salad, which was a tad overdressed. My father had the lobster mac'n'cheese, which is his usual and I was pleasantly surprised at the hugeness of the dish and that it wasn't too rich- I was expecting a little cast iron skillet oozing with fat a la Rok Burger. My stepmother and friend had the seafood pasta which is honestly about 3lbs of spaghetti, biggest scallops I've ever seen, clams, lobster and shrimp- plenty of leftovers for the next week! Trying to keep with my "diet" I had the yellowtail snapper with capers, tomatoes and crab meat and substituted the mashed potatoes for extra asparagus and spinach. Very lovely and light although I felt the crab didn't do anything to the dish. Would definetly go back- lovely evening.
(4)Brittany M.
No way around it...this place is amazing! Definitely a slightly older crowd (I'm 24 so older than me but not necessarily old old) but that could be because it is very pricey. Portions are huge though and so fresh/delcious. Linguine and clams are out of this world! This is a great place to take your parents when they come in town for a visit. Took mine and my boyfriend's parents and everyone raved the whole time!
(5)Douglas C.
I have only eaten here a couple of times as there are other on par Italian dining options at similar or lower prices in the Fort Lauderdale area. However, I have been very pleased whenever I dine here. Most recently, I started off with a very tasty caesar salad and then had their rigatoni bolognese, upon the recommendation of our friendly and gregarious waiter. The rigatoni was cooked al dente and the meat sauce, consisting of a mixture of veal, pork and beef was sweet, low on acidity and was a comforting and fulfilling dish. Portions are large here. On a previous occasion I had the linguine with white clam sauce. It was chock full of clams and memorably good. The restaurant is very comfortable with a large bar, booths and tables throughout. Lifting the menu is a workout since they are back lit which is pretty entertaining when you are not suspecting it (sorry I ruined the surprise). Dining companions I was with mentioned they too really enjoyed their meal, especially a snapper special which did look very good indeed. For dessert, the chocolate cake/souffle was light, fluffy, rich and delicious. I like Bistro Mezzaluna and if it were a little less expensive I would eat there more often. However, it is nice for a special occasion and quality Italian food.
(3)stephanie f.
I've lived in Fort Lauderdale for over 3 years, and have frequented many restaurants but somehow never made it to Bistro M. Right on 17th street, I can't even tell you how many times i drove by it unsuspecting. From the outside it looks like a regular, run of the mill, family italian restaurant in a shopping plaza. Looks can be deceiving. Inside, are plenty of awards including Zagat, in a small, warm atmosphere. To the left is a nice bar and to the right are the tables. Service was a bit slow, but the food was great. The menu literally lights up upon opening it. Cool, but i would rather save a few dollars on my meal. The menu is small but everything looked good. We were going to order the special, but they came back after they had run out. On to the food Tomato Basil Soup: Thick, creamy goodness with Homemade croutons in the middle. Thumbs Up. Seabass: Nothing beats seabass in my opinion. And this was great. Lemon Swordfish (sorry can't remember the name of it exactly) I think was even better than the Seabass which is hard to do. I can't wait to come back to this little place. I have to make up for the 3 years i didn't see it.
(4)Richard S.
Had dinner here the other night and I realize that now I don't have to leave Ft Lauderdale for really bad pseudo Italian food. I ordered a monstrosity called penne with chicken, sausage, broccoli rabe in some kind of horrid balsamic sauce. The penne was really rigatoni and the overcooked boneless chicken chunks were a challenge to chew. The rest of it looked and tasted awful. I truly regret not sending it back. The service was adequate but I'm not sure who our waiter was as we had several during the course of dinner. It ranged from indifferent to obsequious, but everything came out promptly. That night hasn't changed my opinion that Ft Lauderdale has the most mediocre to terrible, bordering on criminal fraud, overpriced eateries anywhere in South Florida. Broward County food seems to be at best, pizza, burgers, wings, and burritos and not much else unless you want to take a big expensive risk. For good restaurant experience and sophisticated menus, high quality, and professional service, go to Miami, Delray Beach, or Boca. I do.
(1)Michelle C.
Excellent place for a date! My boyfriend and I bought the groupon and had a great experience! Everyone was very attentive and the menus were out of the ordinary which were lit with LED lights! Their food was awesome! I ordered the pasta which was with a balsamic sauce and sausage that I promise would not be found no where. We also ordered the creme brûlée which was tasteful but too sweet for us. Great service and food!
(5)Damian R.
I am so disappointed we went to this place when there are so many great places around but I have to say that this is maybe the NASTIEST place I have been in my whole life, and I have been in many. Everything about this place is bad. This is the place for you if you are over 70 years old and you have a nasty attitude towards people around you, then you will fit perfectly in the place. Some of the people working at the bar should be working in a prison instead of doing hospitality. (specially the curly blond older woman) Not to mention the place taking the public parking space that is in front of the building so that way you have to do a ridiculous valet parking. I wonder if this is even legal? This is a great place to take your worst enemy...I mean REALLY!
(1)Kim B.
My roommate and I went to Bistro Mezzaluna, very nice restaurant. The service was very professional. I tried the Pan Roasted Yellow Tail Snapper and it was delicious. The asparagus was tender and the mozzarella was fresh tasting. The fish, delicate and moist. I would highly recommend this restaurant for a quaint dinning atmosphere.
(5)Mike W.
Great food great service! Love the new location.
(5)Luis M.
This unsuspecting location is one that I've sadly passed by countless times on the way to the beach. A friend tipped me off to Mezzaluna, and I'm for sure coming back. The meals were inexplicably sultry, decadent, passionate. Just sexy. A place like this might get the unlayable laid. And like a high end hooker, it'll cost ya. My gf and I celebrated Valentines Day a week early and I decided, why not go all out? I want to show her I love her, I'll probably even buy her a pepsi. She was pleased. The mood lighting and simple, romantic, decor was just right for the occasion. drink orders were taken, and steamy delicious rolls were served. we couldnt get enough. Ally ordered the salmon (30 bucks) and I ordered the 20 oz ribeye (45). Our meals were promptly served, and we dug in after bouts of beach-induced hunger pangs. My ribeye really hit the spot. I literally said out loud that it was the best cooked piece of meat I had ever had, juicy slobbery, thick and bloody... and that includes counteless rounds at Texas De Brazil. Mashed potatoes were fresh and just like i love them, and I was even more pleased when the waiter brought me the "tobacco onion rings" I had asked about. They were delicious strings of oniony goodness. My girl's salmon was also cooked to perfection. Still moist over fresh arrugula with goat cheese. The service was also phenomenal, very kind, polite, and attentive. And the GF enjoyed her pepsi too.
(4)Brooke K.
Don't let the location fool you as this restaurant will satisfy the more discerning of palates. Had the pleasure of enjoying the personality and skills of Executive Chef, Brian Rutherford at a local cooking school in town and decided to once again visit the restaurant. We were referred our first time about six months ago, took guests the second time and each visit was totally enjoyable. Ask for "Waz" for your waiter and do try the fabulous bread pudding or flourless chocolate cake for dessert.
(4)