With its reputation as the best restaurant in Princeton and great location in Palmer Square, Mediterra is a natural for special occasions. My wife and I went there for New Year's Eve and were stunned by the indifferent service and poor value. We tried again on our most recent anniversary and were underwhelemed by the experience. (However, the hostess did bend some rules to get us on the terrace for our anniversary--much appreciated.) The food is tasty and imaginative, with fresh-grown vegetables from the Mediterra organic garden, but not plentiful. Prices are hard to justify. A summer film festival on the terrace is fun. Overall: overrated. For a really good meal at half the price, go around the corner to Teresa's. For a robust meal at a third the price, keep walking to Winberries.

Last Visited: June 2005

Starbucks is 20 paces away, couches empty on a typical afternoon, while the line snakes out to the sidewalk at Small World. And the eager faithful are likely to get their orders faster despite the long line. Small World is a great roaster (don't neglect the take-home bags of beans); their espresso drinks are the best I've ever had; and the no-frills atmosphere is great. Whenever I make an appointment in Princeton, it's always "Meet me at Small World."