The Governor Hotel — Restaurant in Sydney

After a long hiatus, I found myself at the Governor Hotel a week ago. While the full menu downstairs is still not available, the exceptional service I received from Alice, Roon, and Mason completely blew me away.

It all started with Alice—a young woman who truly embodies customer service. She greeted me warmly, asked about my day, and inquired whether I had been to the hotel before. I shared how the Governor used to be my regular spot until they removed some crowd favorites—especially the deconstructed chicken tacos. I only returned because I had a meeting nearby. Alice listened attentively, apologized for the past changes, poured my drink, and led me to my table. I thought nothing more of it.

To my surprise, a few minutes later, Alice returned with a specially made serving of chicken tacos—on the house! She explained that she had spoken to the chef and the team, who were more than happy to oblige. I was genuinely taken aback. The fact that she not only remembered my story but also took the initiative to talk to the kitchen, and that the chef and his team went out of their way to make the dish just for me—that level of service is something I have never experienced in Australia in all my years here.

The tacos were delicious, but what impressed me most was their dedication to making one customer feel valued. It reminded me of the Governor Hotel’s old charm—the warmth and care they once had for their patrons.

Alice continued to serve us flawlessly, ensuring our glasses of wine were never empty, always wearing a genuine, heartfelt smile. She clearly takes pride in her work, and I have no doubt she will go far in her career.

A special thank you to Alice, Roon, and Mason—you guys are truly amazing.

To the Governor management: Do not lose Alice, Roon, and Mason. They are the reason I have returned four or five times in the past week and even brought my entire team for lunch last week.

Thank you for the outstanding service, delicious food, and for restoring my belief in true hospitality. I was there today, and you’ll be seeing a lot more of me from...

I honestly don't understand how on earth van this establishment have as good a rating as it does. From Parking to check in to good and service, I found it really hard to think of a positive to our recent experience.

Be prepared NOT to park at the hotel and instead having to find parking elsewhere. And when I say elsewhere, it won't be close. We booked the rooftop. To my disappointment it was completely lacking ambience. Music too low, lights too bright, staff unenthusiastic. If you expected beer on tap, too bad. NO BEER ON TAP Service was shocking. Staff talking to each other at the bar, and I was waiting on a queue for 10 minutes with only two groups in from of me with simple drink orders. My friend was gone for 15 minutes. They're were at least 4 stay at the bar but far more interested in their own banter than customer. Food took 1hr and the buzzer was never buzzed. I ordered sharing plate about which I asked at the bar whether it is an entree size or main size as it was priced same as pizza. The bartender clearly didn't have a clue as his answer what somewhat ambiguous although he did eventually day that they might by more an entree size. Well... The squid was 7 pieces - so yes, definitely an entree size. They were thick and chewy and underseasoned. The pizza was overloaded and a little soggy in the middle. Pricing of meals was out of proportion. Will absolutely not come back. The two stars are for good cleanliness...

I am writing feedback for my concern regarding an interaction I had with a staff member earlier today, at approximately 12:20 PM. I was looking at a menu. A staff member asked if I needed anything and I responded to her as well, "Do you need help with anything?". Her response I received was quite sharp and felt as though I was being sarcastic, which was certainly not my intention. I even asked, did anyone hurt you. When I expressed that the response seemed inappropriate given my simple question, the staff member's reaction remained defensive. This attempted to report this interaction to another staff member, but it appears there is no formal process for providing feedback on such incidents. My intention in offering help was purely to be considerate. I was surprised and disappointed by the dismissive and somewhat aggressive nature of the response I received from two staff members. I believe that fostering a welcoming and respectful environment for customers is important, and this interaction did not align with that. I would appreciate it if you could address this matter to ensure that all staff members understand the importance of polite and professional...