'MUD' is the latest restaurant created by Filippo di Bartola in radical-chic Pietrasanta. The place is fashionable and Thomas Cecere is a London-experienced, well prepared bartender; he keeps a bottle or two of gin in the freezer, then he mixes the Martini following the customer's desire, which is always commendable. The stem glass is appropriate; so far, so good. The Bankes, however, is one of the cheapest gins on sale in Italy and only 40%; one would expect a better selection in a place that nurtures high expectations in this sector. (The alternative, regarding the bottles kept in the freezer, was the equally 'common' stock Tanqueray). Anyway, although the presentation was missing the little amenities that usually go with a Martini (toasts, canapés etc), replaced by some nuts and unjustifiable birdseed, the aperitif was quite amenable.

I can't say the same of the dinner: the less I say about it, the better. Being offered a Trebbiano when one asks for a glass of light white wine along the lines of a Gewürztraminer is in my mind akin to entering a Porsche dealership with a 911 in mind and being offered a VW Up! instead.... I can anyway testify that the butter was very good, the waiters were all exceptionally courteous and, despite their young age, very professional. 'Nuff said.