Bistro di Marino 492 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, NJ 08108

"According to Einstein’s definition of insanity, I am certifiable with this restaurant. This used to be my go-to place for any special occasion, the one I would cite as my favorite place to eat out on a rare date night. However, it has become a shell of its former self in the last year. A few months ago, they were over booked and left us in the freezing cold to wait for our reservation for over an hour (we ended up leaving and going elsewhere). Maybe it was just a one-off? Maybe it was a sign of how the restaurant was returning to its former greatness? Sadly, no to both questions. When my husband and I went last night on an early valentines dinner, we were seated at the table with tattered fall menus. Then, the waiter informed us that there were no specials, they were out of veal, and 5 other menu items. While my husband and I chewed on burnt toast that passed for a bread basket, he finally decided on the salmon, only to be informed that they sold the last dish moments ago. In short, I feel sorry for the staff who work here, the gullible patrons trying this place out for the first time, and the idiots like me who come back from time to time hoping things will be different. And while I admire the manager for personally greeting every table and offering her apologies last night, I think the damage was already done. I’m officially breaking up with this place and trying out many of the other wonderful Italian restaurants that Collingswood has to offer."

"The restaurant vibe is nice, tables are spread, noise level is low and we were seated at a nice table by the window. The service was very good and our server was attentive and all dishes served in a timely manner. We started with caesar and arugula salad which were good, the arugula was a better choice (caesar had a lot of croutons and could have had crisper lettuce) and they were able to split it for two of us. Their bread is very good and they serve it with a pesto dipping oil. For entrees their gnocchi options are endless and that seems to be what they are famous for, lobster gnocchi was delicious and a large portion. Their pasta and crab pasta was flavorful but only 3 shrimp and small bite size pieces of crab so it just was more like a large bowl of pasta. Their Chicken nona was good, a little to much cheese but also a large portion. Its a BYOB so we brought out favorite wine and had espresso afterward but were to full for dessert. There are a lot of options on the menu and some seasonal variety changes. Allow yourself time to find street parking if its a weekend night as the town can be crowded."

"I can’t praise this location any more than top tier service and food. Christa and Steve, our lead and assistant servers respectively, went above and beyond for us. Our bartender Blaine was on point and knew how to exactly to get the party going! Tony our busser was super responsive and respectful and kept the restaurant tidy while the kids caused chaos :). Thank you all for your hard work to make this moment memorable."

"My bridal shower was hosted here just yesterday and I couldn't of been happier! The shower was outside in their courtyard area that was reserved for just us. With plenty of greenery, space, and shade, everyone was able to relax and enjoy their time! The food was amazing! We had their calamari, bacon wrapped shrimp, and eggplant rollitini for appetizers. For the main course, we had two different salads, chicken parm, eggplant, vegetable orecchiette, and their pesto gnocchii(my fav)! With the ample amount of food, the option to bring in your own cake and alcohol, it was affordable for what you get!"

"This is a great spot for a date night! The Eats: From the yummy bread and oil mixture, to the delicious freshly made gnocchi, to the steak and crab, and finally the cannolis - SUPERB! The Service: Prompt and attentive! The Atmosphere: Romantic and surprisingly quiet with how busy they were. Note: they are BYOB, and they have great space if you want to have an event. Collingswood is an awesome place to walk around before and after dinner. I highly recommend coming here (again and again)!"