I usually enjoy an evening out at Piaza Firenze, unfortunately this evening was the exception. This visit was unnerving to say the least given the current pandemic.
The restaurant was busy when we arrived, but not so much that we didn’t comfortable. By the time...we left every table was in use, including ones that originally had tape on them, we assumed as a sign that they shouldn’t be used.
Throughout our meal the only thing dividing us from our neighbours was a stand with a flimsy cardboard framed piece of clear plastic, which was filthy & got knocked out of position every time someone at the next table got up. In short completely inadequate.
The staff were all wearing masks or visors, however, I use the term wearing loosely. I appreciate that it was very hot & undoubtedly uncomfortable, but one staff member approached our table with only their mouth covered & nose exposed. We witnessed another lift his visor to speak to the couple at the next table thus completely defeating the object of wearing it. Another had his mask under his chin for the duration of our visit.
When we were served our drinks I had to return my glass as it still had somebody’s lipstick around the rim. Bad enough on a normal day, but in the current climate indicates that things are not being cleaned or checked as thoroughly as they should be.
The food, which is normally amazing was not up to the usual standard either. The seafood in the risotto & pasta dishes was over cooked & tough, & the lasagne was dry. We all left around a third of our meals. Usually we would have stayed for a couple of drinks & maybe a dessert, but due to the general air of chaos & our increasing discomfort at the lack of social distancing we paid our bill within minutes of our table being cleared & left. Not before being forced to pass at least seven tables at close proximity & then squeeze past people queuing inside the door waiting to be seated.
All in all not a good experience. They are clearly trying to adhere to the current government guidelines, but failing. Safe to say we won’t be going back anytime soon.More