It has been a few years since I have been here, so now it is time to do a review. This place is located smack in the middle of downtown. Parking is really hard, so preferably take an uber or park at the conventiom center or Hilton. Its only a 10 min from there to the restaurant and super easy access to get put of downtown. I really like this place because the ambiance is like being in Spain, DJ and Live Latin Music until around 1am. Decor is like being in a Spaniard "Bar" and it is usually pretty busy. Full bar, good cocktails, wine list and a great variety type of Cold and Hot Tapas to share. Their signature dish for me Is the Black Seafood Paella made with the squid's black ink. Lively music and there is an area where you can dance if you are up to the mood Great place to gather with friends, they do take reservations or you can also walk in and sit at the bar if the tables are busy. There is like a second floor with tables to be a little bit more separate from the music. Ladies bathroom, very interesting decor with pics of cute famous Spanish and Latin Actors. The only thing is that there was no a/c in the restroom so it was super hot there even if were there for 2 minutes. Service was average. Not out of this world. I think our waiter was taking care of too many tables at the same time and he was always in a hurry. We had to hunt him down to get our orders taken and even for the bill. This left a lot to desire for the restaurant quality. But still a good option for dinner, fun, laughs and dance. read more

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Top Spanish tapas and paella spot Been to this spot multiple times but finally remembered to write a review after doing the Taste of Gaslamp food tour. Great spot after the game or just strolling around The "all in" paella and both the white and red sangrias are phenomenal. You can also get all the classic tapas, jamon Iberia, etc here making it a little taste of Spain by the ballpark They also have a pretty popular salsa dancing club downstairs that I've been meaning to check out read more

Cafe Sevilla - Paella - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

3.5 stars, really. Pretty good service, but the food is a little overpriced. My friend and I ordered the 5 course la familia, which was good, but not outstanding. I'd try something else next time. On the night that a friend and I dined, there was live music from a duo playing guitar and something else. Restrooms are up stairs, and I don't think there is an elevator. There is dining upstairs, and that might be the more fun place to sit, to have a great view over the entire front end of the restaurant. read more

Had a wonderful experience at Sevilla in Downtown San Diego! The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was excellent--friendly, attentive, and welcoming. I loved the atmosphere, with beautiful Spanish-inspired decor and lively Latino music that created such a fun and inviting vibe. They also have live music after 10 PM, which made the evening even more enjoyable. Definitely a great spot for delicious food, great service, and a fun night out! read more

Cafe Sevilla - Beef empanadas and Datiles Rellenos - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

Food is always amazing! Every Comic-Con I always come to get their infamous black seafood paella!! To die for! And their Calamares Fritos! This year my husband tried the lamb chops and it's super good he loved it! I tried their hibiscus mocktail not very fond of it but is good. Service the hostess can improve a bit she sat us down without menu. But they're busy I guess l. Our hostess was amazing and very attentive! Ambiance is superb! read more

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First time visiting. Was down in the area for an event and girlfriend had always wanted to visit and try it. Stopped by after the event about 930. It was pretty full but got a seat pretty quickly. Got great service from a gentleman that was on point! He made the experience better. Paella was delicious and sangria were very good. Thx for making it a great memory for her read more

Cafe Sevilla - Paella Valenciana Single - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

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We had a lovely evening at Café Sevilla! We tried the marinara paella and the meat paella. I preferred the marinara, as the lamb flavor in the meat paella was a little too strong for my taste, but overall, the food was good--I'd give it a 4 out of 5. The sangria was also delicious! Our server, Aro, was very kind and welcoming and made the experience even better. The atmosphere was lovely and really reminded me of Spain! read more

Cafe Sevilla - Paella marinara and meat - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

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Friends and I went here during their happy hour! I absolutely love that some of the tapas were 50%. I do miss it when ALL the tapas were 50% off. But nonetheless, it's still very delicious!! I love everything that we got! Our server was also super attentive! He was very quick to answer questions and bring out our food! We had an amazing time! ALSO, I love the girls restroom LOL!! It was funny ! read more

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Ultimate club place if you are just dance and let lose is the shit especially the food is not even that great doesn't is OK but the dancing is the best. They have a band they have a club. I love it here. read more

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For a restaurant that has been part of the dining landscape in San Diego for more than 30 years, this space still has remarkable presence. There is an enduring charm to it that feels earned rather than manufactured, and from the moment you walk in, it is clear why it has lasted. Service was gracious and polished. The staff was friendly, attentive, and accommodating throughout the meal. I began with a mocktail Old Fashioned, followed by another mocktail, and both were exceptionally well done. Balance, texture, dilution, and presentation were all handled with care. My bartender showed real technique, which is not always the case with spirit-free cocktails. The seafood paella was, in many respects, quite good. The shellfish and seafood were cooked properly, which matters immensely in a dish like this where timing can fall apart quickly. The shrimp were succulent, and the clams and mussels were well executed. The flavor in the rice was there, but the texture leaned softer than I would have preferred. In a proper paella, I look for grains that retain more individual definition and structure rather than reading as overly softened. The seasoning and depth were appealing, but the rice itself did not quite deliver the textural precision I was hoping for. I also ordered the scallops with black squid ink rice. The scallops had a nice exterior sear, but on this visit they were slightly underdone in the center, a touch too salty, and arrived below the ideal serving temperature. The squid ink rice, however, was excellent. It had the more distinct, granular consistency I had wanted from the paella, and it was deeply satisfying from both a textural and compositional standpoint. Overall, this is still a very worthwhile dining room with real character, strong hospitality, and a kitchen that shows clear capability. Even with a few execution issues, there was more than enough here to warrant a return visit. read more

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Sevilla Valentine's Day Edition: Pardon the delay, amigos! It's been a lengthy week! But I digress! You're here for the deets! Like every boyfriend who wants to show his adoration for his gorgeous girlfriend, I planned this event a few weeks ago. Commitment & dedication are key. Flamenco Show, 3 course dinner for two, AND dancing after?! Yeah, your amigo has it covered! This package is available on their website, and not only on Valentine's. But this day does make it more romantic! A minor 5-10 minute wait as we stepped out of our Uber to the front entrance of the club adjacent to the restaurant. Our lovely hostess greeted us & escorted us downstairs to pick our table. There were no specific table reservations, but all seats are good, as it's a small venue. The Love Gods smiled upon us and granted a table close to the front with an awesome view of the stage. Perfect table for the perfect date! Starters set the tone. What's this? A Welcome Charcuterie Platter?! It appears out of nowhere as our server takes our drink orders. The service here is impeccable! Impressive spread of cheesy, meaty goodness! The Shaved Jamón Serrano Ensalada Sevillana has a wonderfully zesty citrus vinaigrette that makes you clack your castanets! Ole!! Cocktails for the cute couple! A Oaxacan Flower for my Monterrey Mami! My gal loves her some mezcal! I opted for El Matador Margarita, because I know what I want...tequila! Plus the cucumber counts as healthy! I will die on this hill! The Main Course is the star of the show. And in full diva fashion, the Lobster Paella Valenciana stole the spotlight! A masterfully, monstrous mix of meat & seafood, all on top of some bomb-a** Saffron Bomba Rice! There's even a lobster tail in case you're still hungry! Queue the Flamenco show. The two dancers were elegant, the music was powerful, the singer sublime! Enjoy your dinner to a phenomenal 2 part show put on by very talented artists! We got to meet them after the show, as they personally thanked practically every guest! Elegant as their artform! Lest we forget the dessert! The Flourless Chocolate Cake was just the right amount of sweetness to cap off the dinner & show, as we shared our own sweet nothings. Love & Chocolate, a perfect combo, just like my beloved beauty & her humble narrator. As the performers were packing up & saying their final goodbyes, the staff was clearing the space for the last part of our adventure...dancing! A brief 15ish minute wait back outside & back inside we went! Got a great spot up front by the stage, but be aware the only sitting will be done by the VIP section. I believe it's bottle service only, but you can ask. We didn't, as we did not intend to sit at all! We boogied down, baby! The DJ did a great job keeping the vibe alive. Perfect ending to a perfect night. *Caveat - The dinner menu has other options & several a la carte items, if you so choose. Check their website for specific package info. You cannot go wrong. TL:DR - Never give up on love! read more

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The sangria & tapas were great, but our server Carmella made it amazing! Lovely patio in a lively area. read more

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Looking for good Spanish food? This is the place you should go if you are in San Diego..The sangria is very close to what you can get from Spain. The croquet de quest is ver6 flavorful. The empanada is so good for your tapas order. We missed the iberico so we ordered that instead of the black paella. The jamon os soon good. The service from Andy is amazing. Ambience is perfect with live music. For this experience I will rate them 4.6 read more

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It was a nice place to celebrate my nephew's birthday. Great food, service was quick and courteous. We also enjoyed the music.

Came here on a recommendation from a friend who is always in SD for conventions. We just wanted a little to eat in between meetings and receptions for our conference. I ordered beef empanadas and got chorizo and cheese. This was a happy accident. Best ever. The tacos were also good. My friend enjoyed her ceviche. I wish they had gazpacho. Otherwise i recommend! read more

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Service, food and ambience......all good. Recommend the Black Seafood Paella. It was excellent.....mussels, shrimp, squid, clams and fish with peas and dots of a cream sauce over black ink rice. So tasty. We also had the halibut and shrimp ceviche and the skewered vegetables. All delicious. We arrived at 5:30 pm and it wasn't busy, but by 6:20, it was picking up. I had one of the Rioja's from Tempranillo. If you're interested, I noticed after ordering, that they offered a flight of wines from the Tempranillo region. We really enjoyed our first dinner in San Diego. Would recommend Sevilla. read more

Cafe Sevilla - Halibut and Halibut & Shrimp Ceviche - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

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Having been to Spain, I was looking forward to experiencing authentic Spanish Tapas and live music right in the heart of Gaslamp. As expected on a Friday evening, parking was a nightmare. Luckily, we had a prepaid parking spot and came early with over 30 minutes of buffer. After a small hiccup with our reservation, we were able to get seated with our group of four. Our table was on the first floor right in front of the live music. I was initially worried the live music would be too loud but was pleasantly surprised that it was just the right volume. The music was very good and the musicians took live requests from the patrons. Our server was enthusiastic and friendly and gave us a rundown of his favorite dishes. For food we ordered: Tapas: Papas Bravas: unfortunately the potatoes were not crispy like other bravas I've had. Was not a fan. Calamares Fritos: delicious - crispy and juicy in the inside with a wonderful garlic aioli Lamb Sliders: solid sliders with good flavor and not too much gaminess Grilled Pulpo Romesco: delicious octopus, tender, flavorful and with a bomb salad flavored with bits of ham - favorite dish Entree: Traditional Paella: very solid, seafood was good, rice flavor was good. Would have liked a bit more socarrat. Some notes: staff was a bit too aggressive with collecting plates and utensils from our table. At one point while I was scooping the last piece of food from a dish a staff member hovered right by our table and snatched the spoon and plate right from my hand. Additionally, our water was not refilled and we had to ask for more water at which we got a small pitcher we had to serve ourself. Overall was a good experience and our group had a good time. read more

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Came here for a friend's birthday! We had such a good time, the live music made it really fun, and we loved that they came over to sing happy birthday. My only suggestion would be being a bit more accommodating when it comes to splitting the bill. I know it's extra work, but with a larger group it can be tough when they only allow a couple of cards. It would be nice if everyone had the option to pay for their own plate, especially when choosing to dine here. Other than that, the food was good, just on the pricier side, and the drinks are definitely expensive too. read more

You want to have a fun night-out with a live Bands (plural) at different times, dancing included and some of tapas are delicious. Be there late, between 0900 and midnight for a great time. Its very busy later and dancing getting very tied. read more

I did really enjoy this place! I went for restaurant week and I got a lot of things. The service was amazing, the ambiance and live music were also fun. I'm not sure if I had really bad paella in Spain but I liked this more than the ones I got in Spain, it wasn't too soupy and the rice was all cooked well. Alsoooo great protein portion The tiramisu cream brûlée was also to die for, would go back just for that! read more

Cafe Sevilla - Paella - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

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This was a tough review to write because the food was good. Service was awful, but kinda at no fault of their own (I will elaborate). We sat outside on the patio and the vibes were lovely. There is live music. But it essentially becomes a club-ish vibe inside, even though there is a club downstairs. I grabbed dinner with a girlfriend and it took more time to get a glass of water than our first course. Literally, had to ask the runner for glasses of water that dropped our food. All of a sudden on our tiny 2 person table, courses 2 and 3 show up before we have had a second to enjoy course 1. Meanwhile, there was a kind couple to next to us that not a single person checked on. We became dinner pals and had to point the service to them if they needed something. I think this review is more about my frustration for this older couple. We selected different courses (so no, we were not accidentally give their food). They were given course 1 and then 4, when someone finally asked what they wanted for 5 they had to express that they were not given 2 and 3. This couple was then bombarded with their missing food, were there longer than us, and not a single person came to apologize to them. There was a course that was boxed for us and then another where we were brought random paper boxes and did it ourselves? When I went to use the restroom I sorta, kinda understood the service because the staff is having to "excuse me" and "pardon me" through a crowd of dancing people. Mind you, our reservation was for 7p....it wasn't late night but there was no protected clear path for them to service tables with food. read more

Cafe Sevilla - 5 Tapa Meal Deal - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

Oops!!! They did it again!!! AMAZING, amazing Paella from the many regions of Spain!!! Zaa atPaella is a Spanish rice dish from the Valencia region, traditionally cooked in a wide, shallow pan called a "paellera" over an open fire. It features short-grain rice, saffron for its signature golden color and aroma, and a variety of ingredients like chicken, rabbit, seafood, and vegetables. While the original Valencian paella included local ingredients like rabbit (BUT NO RABBIT HERE) and beans, modern variations are diverse, with popular types including seafood paella, mixed paella, and vegetarian options. We got the latter, the more MODERN VERSION of Paella. It's a must on the TASTE OF THE GASLAMP, we look forward to it every year!!! Inside of the restaurant, it's beautiful. SERVING IN THE BACK, and sitting at the tables. I have to say that the food and the staff, BOTH ARE GREAT!!! read more

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I'd wanted to try this place since I'd walked past it, and heard two flamenco guitarists burning up the stage... the music is always live, and changes every night. Plus, tapas, which I adore, and seldom get to indulge in my passion for. The place, with its wonderful warm ambience, tchotchkes and posters from the Seville bull fights, and delicious aromas, filled up early; His Goatness and I sat at the bar (which I ended up up loving, because our bartender was great, and we still got white tablecloth service). Drinks were perfectly balanced, bright and fresh and delicious. Between us, we ended up trying the caipirinha, which was made perfectly, the tamarindo margarita (I love that tart, tamarind punch in the mouth), and the barbacoa margarita (smoky, with a lovely Spanish sausage and fresh pineapple garnish). I wanted to try the hibiscus cucumber margarita as well, but ran out of room in my tummy... wish I could have tried the many sangrias, but I can no longer tolerate wine, to my everlasting sadness. His Goatness and I chose to indulge in the oJourney Through Spain" five-course dinner for two, featuring some of my favorite tapas and some excellent seafood paella. We chose the boquerones filet for the first course, which has always been a favorite of mine... delicate white fish filet in olive oil, over creamy avocado on crispy toast. The second course, the Salchichas a la Plancha, came with a show: the four piquant, smoky, flavorful sausages plus caramelized onions were flambeed in front of us in brandy, then doused with a delicious cider glaze. So good we practically licked the plate. Our croquettes de queso y jamón were perfectly crisp on the outside, creamy and cheesy and filled with tender smoky jamón Serrano on the inside. Melty and gooey and flawless. The paella Valenciana, with mussels, clams, calamari, shrimp, chicken, and more of the amazing Spanish sausages, was perfectly tender, perfectly spiced, and really satisfying (as well as filling). And we finished with the Basque cheesecake, which was just the perfect bite to share, to cap the amazing meal. It was so creamy, with the honeyed oranges and fresh berries to complement the richness... The band that evening played loud hispanic pop, which was a bit of a bummer -- it was too loud for the space, and killed conversation, although it was fun watching the table behind us singing along at the tops of their lungs. Need to return on another flamenco guitar night! read more

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We had always wanted to try Cafe Sevilla in Gaslamp, and we are glad that we had an opportunity today. We came for the Happy Hour and enjoyed some tapas (meatballs, tacos, fried calamari, lamb sliders) and sangria. The service was prompt and friendly, and the food and sangria were very tasty. Only wished that the food came out a bit hotter. We really liked Spanish decor in the restaurant. We can't wait to return to try the paella and to see the Flamenco dancers and live music one day. Very easy to make reservations via Yelp app. read more

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I like this place and try to come every year for my birthday. I really enjoy live music, diverse food and happy people... where's a better place! This location is in San Diego. I have been to Sevilla in Orange County as well but I don't remember eating there so I cannot speak on the food. I can only speak to the drink service. Seeing as this place is usually very crowded on weekends and even thursdays (with the weather permitting), I think patience is important to have. The servers are working hard and fast maintaining friendly attitudes. I think this is a great place for traveling tourists and couples for a night out on the town. read more

Horrible...Service, Food, Ambience. Our waiter didn't even try to make our experience positive. I've been here several times on the past and it was awesome. What happened? read more

Had the best time here with my parents. The place is lively, transporting you to Spain. The time we came, they had live music with a trio group, and they were amazing and definitely got the people up and dancing. Known for their paella, and for good reason - it's simply the best. You of course have to pair it with their sangria. Our server, Haliberto was great! Though he was taking care of many tables, he still took time to take a picture of us, and provided good service. The one thing I wish, is that they use their waitlist on Yelp consistently. There was an issue when I used it, so it never updated. It worked out at the end, and the hostess got us great seats next to the stage under these lights, that made it seem like we were under the stars. She definitely had her hands full throughout the night, but was still attentive. Definitely a place to visit when in Gaslamp and wanting a taste of Spain. read more

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Absolutely GREAT food! Great service! Energetic, romantic & wonderful location. One of our favorites!

Delicious food! I got Paella was great, lots of meat and cheese. Food came out very quick and service was great

I love coming here. The vibe is great, food is good. A little pricey but that is known.... the live entertainment is great if you get to sit inside and not behind a pillar lol Staff can be pretty mean when you're seated and God forbid you want to sit somewhere you can see. It's like you have to know someone ...pay someone. But ill still go because I do like the food and vibes for the most part. It's a great place for date night. Happy yelping mis amigos y amigas. Happy yelping mis amigos y amigas! read more

Great food, service, ambience, and live music and dancing. A great cultural experience with Spanish dishes and Latin music and dancing!

While spending a few days in San Diego last week, we found this Spanish restaurant a couple blocks from our hotel. We both love paella which was on the menu. We showed up a few minutes early for our reservation and the hostess happily accommodated us right away. There were several items on the menu that sounded amazing but we decided on the paella valenciana which is our favorite. 2 sizes were available, a single or a family size. Our waiter advised us that a single serving would work for us to share and he suggested a couple of tapas selections (a potato/onion tart and a flatbread with tomatoes & jamón (ham). Both were delicious and the entire meal went very well with the Spanish wines our waiter suggested, a white Albariños and a red Marques de Riscal Tempranillo. Both were excellent wines. We would not hesitate to return here the next time we are in San Diego. read more

Cafe Sevilla - Paella Valenciana Paella Single - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

We sought out this spot for live music on Wednesday evening. I was impressed at how beautifully decorated it was. The band was on break when we arrived. I popped into the bathroom. I enjoyed all the incredible art on display as I made my way upstairs. Bathroom was surprisingly colorful. The sink was cool too. When I came back, he was at the bar with a Modelo Negro and the band was playing their set. We soaked in the music and ambiance and danced our way out after he finished his cervaza. I'd be interested to come back to try the food. Paella looked yummy from what I could see. read more

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The food was so delicious and flavorful. Our server was so nice and attentive. The paella and sangria were top notch. There was a live band playing and they were SO amazing. It was such a vibe. They played everything from Santana, to Selena, to Elvis. Just a good time overall. read more

Cafe Sevilla - Sangria - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

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First time dining here and it will definitely not be the last! I would pass on the meatballs for an appetizer. They were good but nothing phenomenal - the chorizo was delicious and would have been preferred in the meatballs themselves. The paella valenciana was so so delicious and definitely authentic. The papas bravas are a must order. Service was very attentive with water refills and polite. Very romantic atmosphere. read more

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Bartender woman (Alena) from 7/13 during PM shift yelled at us for sitting at the bar so we went to the other side with the guy bartender. I went to refresh at the ladies room and had a private conversation with my friend. The bartender woman went from the restroom to my partner downstairs and offered him a free drink telling him we do not deserve him and spoke very poorly about us. I come here often since I have friends working at the restaurant for YEARS. It was the worse experience with that woman on my birthday. I hope she get fired and management educates her on doing her job. I never thought I had an awful experience at this place. read more

I loved the ambience the moment I walked in. It felt like I was back in Madrid. I took advantage of happy hour and the restaurant week 3-course dinner menu. I tried： Halibut & Shrimp Ceviche Spanish Salchichas a la Plancha Croquetas de Queso y Jamon Salmon con Chorizo 16-hour Rioja Braised Short Ribs Basque Cheesecake Crema Catalana Sangria read more

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I stopped by during SD restaurant week back in January with a friend and we had a good dining experience. We sat outside at the front porch area. We were warmed up by the heaters they had setup on the cold night we dined there. The restaurant was very packed when we showed up and service was a bit on the slower side but the staff were friendly and apologized for the wait in between food courses coming out. We ordered several dishes including the paella, salchichas, croquetas, and basque cheesecake. All of the food was delicious with our favorite being the paella which came out piping hot on a huge pan. The croquetas had a good crunch on the outside with lots of cheesy filing with jambon on the inside. Watching the staff cook the salchichas at our table was awesome and they were tasty. The cheesecake was rich and creamy and a good way to end our meal. Overall, it's a decent spot for Spanish food and they have a good-sized menu with plenty of options to choose from. It can get crowded as a heads up and they also have a nightclub so it can get a little crazy on the weekends! Service is friendly and it's a great place for large parties or to celebrate a special occasion. read more

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Good service. Place was packed. The paella was burned on the bottom unfortunately but had good flavor. We danced until 12:30am! read more

Cafe Sevilla - Spanish Near Me - San Diego, California

Only 2 napkins My drinks arrived after my meal No eating utensils Small portions The food lacked flavor The salt I asked for to season my food arrived after I had already finished eating I asked for my drink without ice, but the glass was filled to the brim with it read more