152027 Wed May 18 19:03:26 -0700 2005 2 12 Boston Area 0 816270 Haven't been to Rialto for quite some time. Can anyone tell whether or not it deserves a repeat visit? Does the food and service live up to the accolades of Zagat? Wed May 18 19:03:26 -0700 2005 0 lippy 1 816326 We were just there Saturday night and had a great experience. I was with a bunch of picky eaters, several with severe food allergies, and the waitstaff handled everyone's issues with grace. I had a foie gras app that was fantastic, and also a greens soup with sorrel that was unusual and refreshing. The desserts are also interesting- they have an Israeli pastry chef who is creative and uses a lot of Middle Eastern influences in her desserts. The espresso float with homemade s'mores rocked the house. You should check it out, it's definitely worth a try. And I think they have a new small plates menu in their bar area in case you want to try it but don't want to spend a ton of money- I haven't had the small plates though, so I can't vouch for them. Thu May 19 10:47:07 -0700 2005 816270 0 Posenose 1 816421 Your suspicion of Zagat's reviews is well founded. But it's mighty handy for restaurant addresses and phone numbers. I rate Rialto among my very favorites in town for special occasions. It's not at that crazy-expensive level represented by places like L'Espalier, but it's very consistent and excellent in its less-elaborate, less-formal way. A fine bar, a fancy-but-not-stuffy room, great service, really lovely food (along the lines of No. 9 and Caffe Umbra, on a creative, not-exactly-French, not-exactly-Italian tip), great desserts, and top-tier service. My one quibble is my standard one for places at this level: not enough good wines for less than $80/bottle. Budget for this bit of gouging and I think you'll be very happy. Fri May 20 00:17:03 -0700 2005 816270 0 MC Slim JB