The Italian Pantry Deli-Cafe

I’ve eaten here before and only been disappointed by the indifference of the wait staff. Today was different.
I ordered the caprese salad and a cappuccino. I only ordered the salad after enquiring about the tomatoes. I was assured that they were yummy, heirloom tomatoes. Someone was lying. I was lied to.
The salad arrived on a small plate, undressed. At $ 15, I expected a more appealing presentation. It was accompanied by a duo of oil and vinegar.
The menu board promised fresh tomato slices, buffalo mozzarella and basil, drizzled with Partanna EVO and balsamic.
There were four or five very sad basil leaves. One of the two tomatoes used had flavour. The other tasted like mushy cardboard. And the mozzarella– well, it was neither rich, nor creamy. Not elastic. Just dull, grainy like a bad, poorly made cheese curd.
And the cappuccino was weak, with way too much milk and chocolate on top.

This place was buzzing when we walked in, which is always a good sign.
We ordered ice coffees, which are not on the menu, and the barista happily made them for us!
Open and light atmosphere. The coffee was delicious, and the food looked fresh.