Here we go...
I've been to Asia Roma no less than at least thirty times. It's always been a place that I've found to be void of pretension, and filled with folks who represent "old" New York - a true hodge-podge of folks that exude a "Cheers" vibe. While some complain about the service, I've never had an issue till this past Friday.
I had a group of about ten who wanted to meet after work, and I suggested this spot, because I thought it was a place we could indulge and chat without breaking the bank. I'm no cheapskate, but I refuse to pay $15 for well cocktail drinks. Anyhoo, as the first to arrive, I walk in and greet the bartender with a "Hey. What's up?" He (the first male bartender I've ever encountered here) responded with a defensive "What!?" You know, the kind of "What!?" that implies I said something offensive. "I just said what's up, that's all," I replied, and he then, still with a stank attitude, said "Uh, OK, What's up?" I then decide to let it go, and start anew. I order a margarita ($7.50) that was not only horrible, but came in a rocks glass, which is the bane of my existence when going to a bar and ordering a mixed drink. One sip, and I knew I'd switch to a Corona. I pay in cash, and the bartender cavalierly places the money in front of me with absolutely nothing in his body language that indicated he was interested in being kind. As the time approaches for me to order my Corona ($6.50), I noticed that a gentleman next to me ordered a Coors Lite [I know, I know "domestic" versus "imported" ($3.50)]. Again, with an absolute cold demeanor, he takes the money from the pile on the bar, and without even turning around, tosses the change back on the bar. Now, I'm starting to fume. To reinforce my memory, I go to their website to double-check what their happy hour consists of, and then to triple-check, I ask this fool what happy hour consists of. While the prices I was charged were completely reasonable, they were wholly inconsistent with A) The Website; B) The Menu; and C) His Reply. I point this out to him, and with and increasingly bitter tone tells me that what he charged are happy hour prices. Son, you just said "Oh, happy hour is basically 2-3 dollars off stuff." OK, maybe you don't think I don't understand basic arithmetic? I then tell him I've been here countless times (backing up a little, the owner Mae had arrived between the margarita and Corona), and I think he has a shitty attitude. "What do you want me to do, sit and chat with you?" No, asshole! I expect you to treat me like a human. I reminded him that a great attitude and a smile is always appreciated, and goes a long way to ensuring a great tip. Anyhoo, I text my friends to tell them we're meeting at another spot in the area - his loss.
Now, and I really don't like going here, but I noticed his entire bar were patrons of Asian descent. This was in stark contrast to the moments where the female bartenders are holding court. Even though I'm a quarter Chinese, I couldn't help but think this kat doesn't gel well with others who don't look like him.
In closing, I have NEVER not tipped, but I grabbed my inconsequentially tossed change, and bounced. My friends and I had a great time at La Lito on Bayard. I will return to Asia Roma, but only if this asshole isn't there. read more