Bistro Milano

Mirror-lined Bistro Milano would be an elegant space—if its glass facade and sidewalk cafe didn’t overlook a midtown parking lot. Sadly, the food and oblivious service are as disappointing as the view. Grilled octopus was mushy, and though garganelli pasta with cannellini beans and chunks of lobster was enjoyable, it was swimming in too much creamy tomato sauce. Desserts were disappointments too. Both a tiramisu and a ricotta cheesecake were frozen in the center, and garnished with canned whipped cream—not exactly something that makes claiming an alfresco table any more appealing.