Centrolina - Washington, D.C.

Restaurant was pretty busy when we arrived. Food was meh in my opinion. The reginette was very seafood y. The portion was pretty small for the price only 3 pieces, but a decent amount of crab meat. I didn't really like the gnocchi as it was slightly bitter and I wasn't not sure why. Also no filling inside the gnocchi. The bread appetizer was pretty normal.

From start to finish, everything was perfect. We were running late, so we called to let them know and the host reassured us that it would be fine. She greeted us warmly and professionally. Did not rush us; unlike most other restaurants where I have no interaction with the hostess, I was able to get recommendation from Aylen. She walked us through the menu so by the time the server came around, we were able to order. Our server was also very attentive and professional. He

The environment and service are impeccable, no complain at all. But I think we have been deceived a little by the rave reviews here on Google Maps about this restaurant. Foods are not up to the mark of price, hype and ambiance. We were very hungry and jet-lagged, probably we did not ordered the right thing, but a restaurant of this price range should offer perfect meals throughout the entire menu, and there shouldn 't be any wrong order. That was not the case here.

We ordered one calamari appetizer and two pastas. The food was okay, but with this price I expected more generous portions or better taste. The big disappointment was that the bread was not complimentary (at an Italian restaurant! They tasted good, but it?s very surprising to me that they are not free, and the waiter did not mention this at all.

Nestled next to Hermes and Louis Vuitton, Centrolina, is in one of best central locations in Washington DC. The food is just as in Italy, tasty, fresh and with a modern twist. The fried mix was amazing, very light and fresh. The pappardelle were out of this world. But what really made the night was the best panna cotta ever!!!