Since moving to Forest Hills in March 2007, Mardi Gras has quickly become my favorite restaurant in the area. I have eaten there at least 5 times and I'm going tonight to make it 6. The food is incredible - the mussels are a must-have! Also worth trying off the appetizer menu is the shrimp bisque (regular special) and the calamari. Everything is a little spicy so if you do not like spicy, beware. The blackened chicken and shrimp special that they have quite often is one of the best entrees I've ever tasted. Also try the stuffed shrimp, Mardi Gras salmon and the seafood pasta. Obviously, you have to like seafood! \r
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As for the service, it can be on and off. I've been there a few times and been seated promptly and had a great waiter. There have also been times I have encountered problems. The service can be slow sometimes and the waiters not very friendly. But on a good night, everything is perfect and I couldn't ask for a better dinner. It is worth the risk. The place is much less crowded on weekdays but even on weekends I have not had to wait long for a table. They do take reservations for dinner before 6pm (although you probably don't need them that early). From my experience, it does not get crowded until around 8pm on any night. But it can sometimes feel crowded even when it isn't because the tables are small and very close together. \r
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All in all, even with my few negative comments, it is still my favorite restaurant in Forest Hills (maybe even ever) and it is always worth it just to eat those mussels!!!
Pros: FOOD!!!! Everything I've eaten is amazing!!!
Cons: Service can be good or bad depending on the night. Tables are sometimes too close together and very cramped.
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