I visited Cafe Torre based on praise from a friend whose judgment I respect. Regretably I was disappointed and here is why: when I arrived I was not greeted with a hello or any welcoming gesture by the host/greeter--just a neutral stare which made me feel like an intruder. I spoke first indicating my name & reservation The host walked me to my table. First impressions are critical; if I was dining alone I might have decided this was not a good start and retreat but I was meeting a friend for a celebratory meal and good time. The awkward chill was evident in the table server too, had he just been spanked? Stiff upper lip and some. The mood felt slightly miltant so I behaved until my friend arrived. Two tables behind me a gregarious attorney barked orders to his office via cell phone; a conversation that appeared to have a half life of 5 hours. Definitely not a plus from my point of view, having just arrived from MY own 10 hour day of business. The estimable Counselor must be a regular patron; his table at C.Torre appeared to be his office away from office whoops, I mean bench, so I reckon he can cell phone yammer at will. So much for us simple folk desiring relief from the racket.\r
\r
Our waiter was professional, courteous but slightly stiff as well. Does anybody smile around here? Don't even think about a full bore belly laugh. Okay, okay, let's talk food. \r
\r
They offer an nice variety of entrees and an extensive, interesting array of wines too.\r
The Nicoise salad was very nice and attractively served; the pasta with mussels was average and the portions small. Not memorable. What is memorable is the odd ambience and that will icell any plan to return.
Pros: pleasant interior, nicely disposed for informal, chummy dining; great wines to sample and chose from.
Cons: awkward atmospherics; cool dispositions of staff. I had a feeling that I come here on an off night, I got tired of feelling like I came here on an off night.
more