I was completely blown away last time I went to Montenapo (in the NY Times building on 41st between 7th and 8th). So much so, that I nominated it for the #4 meal of all of 2009.
They closed down for a few months when a new owner came on board. I’m not sure what they changed, however, I was so excited that it opened back up that I ordered take out. Very expensive take out to be exact.
I chose the Pappardelle alla Genovese (with braised pork, beef, and veal). It sounded great, but I was kinda bummed when I opened up the lid to find… this…
I mean, you pay $20 for pasta from a restaurant that you were blown away by last time, you expect more than this lump of goo. And it was fine… just… fine. Nothing even remotely interesting about it. I still had hope for Mike’s dish…
Linguine alle Vongole e Zucchine (with littleneck clams and zucchini). It was… fine. Fair… Okay it was boring.
And the side of sauteed spinach? Also… bland.
I was beyond disappointed. It was SO good in the restaurant before and this was just so bland. For a $50 delivery, I expect more to begin with, but to have such a great place turn to so boring just sucks. Maybe it was an off day… or maybe they just don’t do delivery well. I MAY try to give them another try by dining in… but this was so uninspired I might just throw this on the “give up” list. Bummer.
Total Nom Points: 5 out of 10
