Talk about hitting the nail on the head. Last time we sat outide we were ignored. And the prices!!! That's ok, we hightailed it to the Shamrock and they appreciated our business.

I used to go every Thurs with my friend because we liked to sit outside in the summer, we went at least fifteen times last year. I would say about 80% of the time service was bad. It is really sad, the martinis are great and worth the $11 (imho) the servers just have to pick it up a notch (or ten). Very disorganized. I've never had the ice cream because it did look oogy and frost bitten but the deserts and sandwiches were always good.

ps stay away from their mojitos (GROSS!) Cobblestones has the best in town.

Wow! I know all too well what you're talking about. I too was very excited when Cafe Paradiso opened its doors. Expectations were high. It turned out that the owner was in an eternal bad mood, which I'm guessing has had an effect on her moody staff. The martinis are way too expensive and not that great. The desserts are anything but fresh and the service is horrendous. I have gone back several times hoping that things would be different, however it just gets worse. Can anyone say new ownership...please!

This place does have its problems but what business dosen't. Don't forget what a dreary corner that was 4 years ago before Cafe Paradisio opened. The Cafe has been responsable for turning Palmer and Middle into the hot spot on any warm sumer evening.And a place to get out of the cold on a cold snowy day.(7 days a week!) As you can see Both Shamrock and Fortunato have followed suit with outside seating. The point is when a lot of businesses were fleeing the city and new businesses were failing left and right The Cafe picked Lowell and stuck with us. If there's any better reason to give them a second chance I can't think of one.

I recall when the Cafe Paradiso first opened and very few customers understood the concept of an European cafe. Myself included. However, over time the Cafe became popular not only as a cafe, but as a bar. I recall thinking that the cafe was a bit chaotic. The Austrian waiter, Ferdinand, told me to understand that this was an Italian cafe and all Italian cafes are chaotic. So, sit back, enjoy and take it all in.

This cafe has brought a flair to the downtown and will continue to do so. If the wait staff seems too busy then go to the bar and demand service. Simple.

My Rotary Club meets there on Tuesdays. We have enjoyed our time and indeed have increased membership due to our meeting there. The luncheons have been excellent and members mob the dessert selections.

Finally, one who is unhappy should speak up to the owner of the business. This gives owners a chance to review how things are done and to improve services.

I recommend trying the gelato at Cafe Aiello at 30 Gorham St: http://www.cafeaiello.com/ The coffee is also fabulous!

I have been there a few times and can relate to what some people say as the owner is rude and her staff even worse who act like they are doing you a big favor by waiting on you...i resent giving my hard earned money to a place thats way overpriced ,rude,and doesnt appreciate my bussiness when there are plenty of other places where the food and service are so much better.

for real gelato go to Swan Chocolates in Nashua NH. It is on the corner of Main st. and Temple st. They have real gelato. The European cafe's is instant gelato, they just add hot water. Gross.