Mediterraneo
1260 2nd Avenue (at 66th)

This UES eatery always seem to get bad reviews, and I can see what could drive people crazy at this über-busy place (especially its coveted outdoor tables). Nevertheless, me and my returning girlfriend (it's been months!) finally managed to meet and catch up. Surprisingly, despite the crowd, we managed to get a nice outside table and had a pretty good meal.

We had a nice chat and despite the noise on 2nd Avenue (especially when the damn trucks use their horns and air brakes, it's bloody loud!), it was a nice environment for conversation. The staff, at first stiff, was very good as the evening went along.

For a starter I enjoyed the grilled calamari, which was pretty good -- more like a salad though. The portion was rather large, which was good. My girlfriend enjoyed one of the specials, the goat cheese ravioli (which wasn't bad either).

The main courses were actually too large! The grilled lamb chops were huge, and I could barely finish half of it. It was a bit overcooked, but they were good pieces of meat. We skipped dessert as it was late and headed out soon.

Mediterraneo may be maligned by its rush and lack of a reservations policy, but when it works out, it's a good place to be -- especially on a warm evening outside.

Food: B
Atmosphere: B+
For Lone Diners: C+ (*)