tponti

Having just returned from Spain with Barcelona as our last stop, I must say I am not at all dissappointed to not have had dinner at Comerc24 - although prior to arrival I had anticipated it would be THE dining highlight while in BCN. This is most likely a result of the unbelievable lack of courtesy extended by Abellan's staff when I stopped by in person (at dinner opening time) to request a dinner reservation for either the following night (a Wednesday) or the night after that (it didn't matter to us which night). My Spanish skills may not be stellar, but one thing I have managed fairly well is the ability to courteously request a dinner reservation. The staff member didn't even make eye contact, and proceeded to ignore my inquiry in order to walk out the front door and initiate a conversation with someone who appeared to be kitchen staff standing on the sidewalk two doors down having a cigarette! The entire time he didn't even so much as offer a nod of acknowlegement. Let me also add that the restaurant was completely empty at the time (9:15 pm). He then spun on his heel, re-entered the restaurant, and walked away leaving us standing there with jaws dropped. My travel companion asked " THAT'S the place you've been saying we MUST have dinner at? Doesn't seem like a very good restaurant to me." What could I say to that? So, we ambled away, shellshocked, to take refuge in nearby Arrel del Born to lick our wounds. Dinner was not only spontaneous, it was fabulous. (Rather than post details here, I will post a separate topic.) Sated and recovered, we left and immediately called Cinc Sentits for dinner a reservation the following night (which was even better than Arrel). Needless to say, Comerc was not missed in the least.

I also love Carlo's shoes (and other items). Couldn't help but bring back 4 pairs on my last trip - wish I had bought more. There was a gorgeous lavendar leather jacket - soft as silk - that looked fabulous on my mother, but she passed it by and regrets it to this day. She considered having it shipped, but... I really enjoyed Ristoro di Lamole when we were there (a Diva recommendation). Not in Panzano - but high, high in the hills above it. I think lunch is best because the view is a wonderful as the food (and Filippo is such a cutie - kept flirting with my Mom). The drive up on the road passing by Vinmaggio was stressful - we came down the other way after lunch (through Panzano) - much better, even though it is not paved all the way. But back to the topic...the Lamole wine is obscure and delicious. I may be sheltered, but I have never seen it in any USA shops. Might be something different to add that you probably wouldn't find here?