WTN: A disappointing meal at Baldoria, Rao's in the theater district.

WTN: We had dinner at Baldoria, the Rao theater district clone and were very disappointed. It's not at all in Babbo's league; we found it expensive and uninspiring.

$149 for Veal Scaloppine, Penne Sicilian, two desserts with coffee and two house wines: Merlot and Pinot Grigio at $10 a glass. [Both wines were flabby and almost tasteless. 2*.] "A knife, a fork, a bottle and a cork … that's the way we spell New York." We've read so much about Rao's on the far upper east side – more of a semi-public club than a restaurant one can make a reservation for. Based on the various sauces on sale at Market Basket, and this experience, I'm not sure I'm missing much.

Regards, Bob

Don't you just hate that?

And Rao's is touted to sainthood in the New York City foodie world.

Bob - I could have warned you. We were there more than a year ago with the most un-foodie like friends you could imagine - they loved it. If they love a place, you can bet I will be disappointed. This was no exception.

I don't think that Rao's is considered a foodie's paradise. It's got the hype because it is practically impossible to get a table...unless, of course, you know someone who is a regular and you get invited.

Forget about the restaurants, and buy the cookbook. The recipes are very good, and the pictures of the Rao family are a scream.

I wish I had asked, Diane. I agree with you completely. Regards, Bob