Ribster — Restaurant in Budapest

I haven eaten here 3 times now and all 3 times I had mixed feelings about it afterwards. It's really a bit like having the craving to get some McDonalds, but after you're finished with it you feel disgusted. It's a bit the same with this TGI, only then not food-wise, but overall experience-wise.

In all honesty, the food is quite decent and I don't have too negative remarks about it. It tastes pretty good and has a good consistent quality.

The thing that makes this place stand out negatively are the terrible incompetent waiters. When entering the venue you can expect to wait a full 10 minutes before even getting notices by someone to direct you to a table (place is half empty most of the time, but still you need to wait to be directed). Don't expect any friendliness with that, it'll cost you extra at the end. Once you're finally seated you can expect the same incompetence in taking your order.. make sure you ar-ti-cu-late slowly and clearly as if you would talk to a 4 year old and preferrably point to the item on the menu that you wish. It is not because of their lack of English speaking skills, but rather the lack of attention for you. In their heads they are some place else far away from their guests, the most unwelcome people at that moment. This is alright if it happens once, but all those 3 times the staff was simply uninterested, uncaring and unable to fullfill waiter tasks.

Topping it off with a great memory to confirm the above, and the last nail in the coffin that made me not come there ever anymore: The last time we went out for dinner there after again experiencing poor service of course, we asked for the bill which was around (e.g.) HUF11.750. I usually tip a little bit out of habbit, but that day I didn't really feel like it, but still.. I said "make it 12.000". Not really a worthmentioning tip, but still for this bad experience that should be receiving nothing, zero, nada. Instead of saying "thank you"... the worst-in-my-life-waiter replied with "can we apply the 10%-rule?".... I was so flabbergasted and speechless that I agreed like a zombie. How does anyone in this world have the nerve to request this from a guest, especially when there is no tipping policy in that TGI location?! Till this day...

Got it, let's rewind and set the scene for an evening setting. Imagine this: two evenings at TGI Fridays at Oktogon in Budapest, each with its own flavor and story.

The adventure began on a balmy evening, the city's energy pulsating around us as we stepped into the familiar, lively space of TGI Fridays. The ambiance was just right for an evening out – vibrant, yet cozy enough to settle down for a nice meal.

The food, I have to say, was decent but didn't quite leap off the plate. It was like a solid background track – enjoyable but not the main hit. But then came the highlight: the drinks. I opted for a Mojito, and it was a masterpiece! It had the perfect balance, refreshing with a kick, transporting me momentarily to a breezy Caribbean beach.

Encouraged by this delightful Mojito experience, we returned the next evening, eager for another round. But, surprisingly, despite the place not appearing too busy, we found the doors metaphorically closed to us. We weren't allowed in, not even for just a cocktail. It was an unexpected downer, especially after the previous night's pleasant experience.

So, looking back at those two evenings at TGI Fridays Oktogon, it feels like a tale of two cities. The drinks were a high note, especially that outstanding Mojito. But the inconsistency in the service left a bit of a sour taste. It's a spot with some great potential, especially for evening drinks, but be prepared for a bit of unpredictability. If you do decide to visit, here's hoping your experience is smooth from...

Great location at the Oktogon - one of the busiest part of the ring road (nagykörút).

American style restaurant, that was the main reason I settled there for a dinner with friends. Music is not really matched with the atmosphere especially in the background something European sport was on! Should give a go with some American country music - even if only at dinner time!

I had half rack of pork ribs with prawns, chips and ‘American Coleslaw’. Overall the best ribs have been served there in Budapest! Really tasty, cooked/ grilled perfectly. Shrimps were buttered- unfortunately the butter had no any special flavour. I like the chips in the skin, gives some homemade flavour and outcome. Coleslaw was (for me) too sweet, missed that tiny drop of vinegar in - otherwise it was great!

Service was SLOW. It wasn’t busy at all, and no one came to lead us to the table. Once we were settled, needed nearly 10 minutes before the waiter recognised us.

Food after we ordered came about in 25 minutes. Not complaining, we had time and been really excited about our orders.

Once finished and asked for the bill, needed over 10 minutes to pay. These are not big issues but not everyone has time.

Overall, highly recommend this place. Lovely food and drinks. Reasonable prices- definitely worth every penny as the portions are...