Natalie's, Ridgewood -- Pass on by

Just returned from Natalie's on Broad St. in Ridgewood. My Frutti da Mari (sp?) was nothing to rave about -- clams and mussels OK, shrimp and calamari definitely overcooked. My friend's chicken with penne, broccoli, sun-dried tomato she said was poor with overcooked, dry chicken. Too bad. It's a cute little place which I'd say has reasonable prices if the food were good. As it is, this will not get a return visit.

[GraydonCarter]

Closed January 2011

[tommy]

Didn't they just move across the street?

[menton1]

Marra's closed and Natalie's took the space. Natalie's closed their Mexican place that was in their original space. Natalie's is open, but I've heard that, even in the new space, it's a pretty forgettable experience.

[doxy216]

Unforgettable is an understatement . We gave it several trys. If they can only get their hostess or someone who works there to make eye contact. Usually you stand at the empty door and wait, no one notices you. Once seated the place can be empty, you never get attention. Once the food comes its mediocre. She should have stayed across the street in the cafe, much better suited. She is a great baker and all the desserts in Natalies are not made there, go figure. I miss her cafe. Sometimes staying small is better.

[Snorkelvik]

I miss the cafe too. We liked our homestyle favorites - broccoli rabe & sausage and capellini lisa & the red velvet cupcakes were out of this world. I haven't tried the Marra's version (b/c I hate that space & the ancient carpets) but the first one across the street didn't have the same appeal.

We're more inclined to hit Tre Voci when we want casual italian in Ridgewood.

I HAD LUNCH THERE LAST WEEK AND IT WAS FINE. MAYBE ITS BETTER FOR SALADS WRAPS AND SANDWICHES, NOT FOR DINNER. TRY MARRA'S ACROSS THE STREET FROM NATALIE'S FOR EXCELLENT ITALIAN DINNER. SOMEONE TOLD ME THEY ARE RELATED TO NATALIE'S.

Have been to Marra's many times, and it's excellent. This looked more casual, and neither of us had been there.