First of all I'd like to address the alleged ""surliness"" of the staff - I've been going to 'Zu once a week for lunch for the past month and at least once a month for dinner for the past two years. I have never, EVER had a bad experience with any of the staff. Consider the amount of work they are doing before passing comments about their attitudes - and maybe check YOUR attitude at the door. If you want someone constantly bugging you every 2 minutes, you can always go to TGI Fridays, Applebee's, or some other establishment. That being said ...
If you like Italian joints that have pictures of the Rat Pack on the walls and a phony ""Italian"" atmosphere, ""Zu ain't for you ... It's ALL about the food here. And fresher food I have yet to find. And it's always perfectly prepared with the proper balance of seasoning. Prices are more than fair and reasonable, with the most expensive item being the lamb chops. And they are worth every penny.
The sweetbreads are borderline orgasmic.
As is every dish on the menu.
For what it's worth, I'm Italian and grew up in a HARD-core Italian Brooklyn neighborhood. We love our food.
I've eaten in exactly ONE place that gave 'Zu a run for the money, and the only edge they had was fresh, home made pasta.
Bottom Line: If you're into ""decor"" and generic ""Italian-American"" food, there are plenty of places in town for that. If you LOVE great food, Mamma 'Zu sets the standard.
Pros: Freshest fish I've EVER had, Authentic dishes, Fair prices.
Cons: Long wait if you hit it at the wrong time, but it's worth it
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