I took my wife of four years to this restaurant, a place I usually love because the food is always delicious. Unfortunately, that is the only positive aspect I can mention. Having worked in the hospitality industry for over 30 years, I can honestly say that poor service is something I absolutely cannot stand. During my career, I always emphasized to my staff that even the best food in the world can't make up for bad service--because if the service is lacking, guest won't come back to experience that food again.
On Friday, June 6th, I arrived at 4:30 pm to drop off an anniversary gift, hoping they could bring it out with dessert for my wife. An older lady setting up outside told me rudely that they didn't open until 5 pm. I understood and said I'd return. When I came back at 5 pm, I spoke with what appeared to be the manager or maître d', who was pleasant. I left my gift and explained that I would like it brought out with dessert, and that they could choose the dessert.
Fast forward to 9:30 pm, and we are seated at our table. Our first server was a lady I remembered from my previous visit, when she was a bartender. We ordered drinks--a glass of wine for my wife and a beer for me. The wine arrived quickly, but my beer took five more minutes. We also ordered olives as an appetizer, which, I am not exaggerating, took a full 30 minutes to arrive. For those unfamiliar with proper timing, appetizers should typically be served within 5-7 minutes, and mains within 10-12 minutes.
We then asked the server when our mains would arrive. She explained that the chicken and fish dishes we ordered take longer to prepare. At this point, we had been there for 52 minutes, and still, no mains. I ordered another round of drinks. While my wife's wine was brought out promptly, I had to wait another five minutes for mine, despite seeing it sitting at the bar.
I understand that no restaurant can be perfect every time, but it was disappointing that the staff, knowing it was our anniversary, chose to provide such poor service. As someone who has owned restaurants and managed some of the biggest establishments in NYC, I always made sure our guests knew they were appreciated--whether it was with a glass of champagne, a small gesture, or acknowledgment.
It's not about expecting freebies but about setting your establishment apart. Unfortunately, after mentioning our special day to the server, she did not improve her service. At the end of our meal, she brought out my wife's gift, but no dessert was offered.
Honestly, I don't see myself returning, and I doubt the owners or managers even care about the experience we had. It's a shame because this place has was one of my favorites but the poor service marred the entire evening. read more