HERE IS THE DEAL

Il Mulino is open. But they will be closing “a little before” July 1st. That comes straight from Joseph “Bada Bing” Palladino. “Joseph and Phillip” are going to keep the location, remodel, re-concept, and open after Labor Day. He wouldn’t say what the new place will be, but I get it’s going to be casual and involve steaks. Can’t wait. “Price point” was the reason given for Il Mulino’s decline. Due to a licensing agreement with Il Mulino NY, J&P couldn’t “dumb down” the Il Mulino concept by lowering prices. So there you have it. Chef Michael Abruzese is already making pizza down the street at Palladino’s new spot Coal Vines, another bad name from the company who gave you Oui/We, Fuddrucker’s, and Lobster Ranch: Home of the Bucking Lobster. Phil once told me he wanted to name the pizza joint Pasta Toots. Hey, he lives on Straight Lane and I don’t. Yet.