The following letter was sent to the manager at the new Mezzaluna. It pretty well summarizes how my first visit went. The total bill for near $300.00 (including tip) for 5 people. Manager Mezzaluna 9901 North Capital of Texas Hwy. Suite 150 Austin, TX 78759 Dear Sir/Madam: Yesterday evening, I came to your establishment with a party of five. I have eaten at your downtown location several times but this was our first visit to your location. While you have a very attractive venue and the service was very good, I have a few things that I would like to bring to your attention that left me feeling a bit disappointed. My first problem was the wine. I ordered the 1995 Carneros Creek Pinot Noir. The waiter brought it and presented it as usual. But after it was served and he left the table, I noticed that we had received a 1996 vintage. I realize that I should have been paying attention when the presentation was made but sometimes it is difficult when many people in one’s party are speaking to you. I never said anything about it at the time because I didn’t want to make a fuss in front of my guests. However, I would like to bring this to your attention. My partner and I ordered one of your evening specials, the veal tenderloin and lobster. While the presentation was very nicely done, we were left a little wanting from the minuscule portions we received. I would have hoped for a larger serving given the $27.00 price tag. The coup de gras was the espressos we had with dessert. A thimble would have been a more appropriate serving container rather than the demitasses which contained them. In closing, I would like to summarize by saying that overall, I feel the $60 per person charge was excessive for what we received. I would compare the food quality at Mezzaluna to that I have received from Castle Hill Cafe; however, their portions are larger and their food and wine prices more equitable. In addition, I feel it is inappropriate to charge a party of five an 18% gratuity. Perhaps a party of six or more but only 15% since that is the accepted amount at this time. Anything over 15% should be at the discretion of the customer. At this point, we have decided to forgo any further visits to Mezzaluna. Perhaps it is just our tastes or perhaps we are not alone in our perception of value for one’s money. Thank you for taking the time to read my comments.
Austin, TX