Disastrous Experience at Gypsea, Goa - Calangute (1st Jan 2025), special mention to the waiter Sahil and not so manager Shashank
Our visit to Gypsea in Calangute on 1st January 2025 was nothing short of a nightmare, and I feel compelled to share this experience in the hope that others avoid the same disappointment. What was supposed to be a relaxing evening with friends turned into a series of frustrating encounters, primarily due to the appalling service and unprofessional staff.
From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was cold and unwelcoming. The tables were mostly empty, yet we were told that they were “reserved.” However, not a single table had a reserved tag, nor were we given any clear reason for this. When we pressed the issue, the staff casually mentioned that the tables were reserved for their own friends. This gave us an immediate sense of being unwelcome and second-class guests, as if we weren’t worth their time.
The rooftop seating, which is often advertised as one of the major attractions of the place, was off-limits. We asked a waiter if we could at least go up and take a few pictures. The waiter initially said it was fine, but no sooner had we reached the rooftop than the manager came storming up, shouting at us and claiming the area was “closed.” We tried to explain that the waiter had given us permission, but he dismissed us, stating that the staff were "new" and clearly “ill-informed.” To top it off, he had the audacity to accuse us of lying. This lack of accountability from management was infuriating.
We then found a table that appeared to be available, and after asking if we could sit there, the response was once again that it was "reserved." However, just moments later, the same table was given to a group that arrived after us. This blatant inconsistency in how they manage reservations was not only frustrating but also highly unprofessional.
What stood out the most during our time at Gypsea was the sheer incompetence and rudeness of the staff. Every member of the team seemed to think they were the manager, yet none of them had the basic hospitality skills needed to make customers feel valued. There was zero patience, and not a single person seemed interested in addressing our concerns or offering any kind of solution. Instead, they were more focused on defending their own lack of professionalism and proving that we were at fault.
After enduring such poor treatment, we decided to leave. To our surprise, when we informed the staff that we were leaving, the bill was already waiting for us—clearly, they had anticipated our departure. We hadn’t even placed a significant order, just some water and a few starters, but the staff couldn’t have cared less about the experience. It was clear they were more interested in pushing us out than providing a solution or improving our experience.
The washrooms are also not usable.
In summary, Gypsea in Calangute is a textbook example of how a restaurant can ruin a guest's experience with a combination of poor management, rude staff, and a complete lack of basic hospitality. It’s truly a shame, as the location has great potential, but the people running it seem to have no idea how to treat their customers. I would strongly advise anyone thinking about visiting Gypsea to look elsewhere for a more enjoyable experience. Save your time, money, and, most importantly,...
Read moreTLDR : Horrible, overrated, understaffed, & underwhelming experience. 2/10 recommended For management, please read this below and try to do better.. Maybe SOBO or SODO kids would like this place because of some non existent "vibe" this place offers, but this was definitely not for me. We were charged around 2k per person just for entry, because there was supposed to be a techno music fest and fire show. These were not cover charges, just entry fees. Firstly, it took us 2 hours just to get inside the club, we waited from 11PM to 1AM, that too when we had bought the tickets a day prior, I wonder how much time it took for folks who were trying to buy them on the spot. Secondly, there was just not enough space in the indoor section of the club. Too packed and club is just not spacious enough to handle this kind of crowd that too in office season. Seems like they didn't put a limit on the number of guests that can enter the club based on their own staff's availability and club size. Outdoor section was just as pathetic, no ACs, barely enough table fans for such a big crowd, a lot of long queues just to get a drink, recharge your card and even washrooms. There was no fireshow, as promised while buying the tickets, the outdoor music fest started 3 hours late. Was supposed to start at 2:30ish AM,started after 5AM. And the worst thing happened amidst all this. A female friend of mine was resting on one of the sofas in outdoor section, when a drunk/high af guy came and tried touching her face. The first time he didn't succeed because she guaged it and dodged it, but second time he came in more aggressively. Before it would turn ugly, the people around him started apologizing to us for his behaviour and he went back and sat in his chair. We contacted the club's staff asap, some manager guy in black suit. He assured us that that guy would get escorted out right away. 45 mins passed by, neither the manager came back with bouncers, not that perpetrator stayed for them. When we spotted the manager and confronted him about his professionalism he replied that he's really sorry but because of so many guests and all he just couldn't come in time. Need I say more...
Read moreGypsea is truly a hidden gem that offers an unforgettable dining experience. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with an incredible vibe that sets the tone for a perfect evening. The ambiance is a beautiful blend of coastal charm and vibrant energy, making it ideal for both relaxed dinners and lively gatherings.
The food is nothing short of exceptional—every dish we tried was bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. Whether you're a fan of seafood, traditional favorites, or creative fusion dishes, Gypsea has something to delight every palate.
One of the standout highlights of the evening was the spectacular fire show by talented artists. It was mesmerizing to watch and added such a unique and exciting element to the night. It’s not just dinner—it’s a full experience.
The service was another major highlight. We were looked after by Vikas, Abhishek, and Mehak, who went above and beyond to ensure we had a great time. They were attentive, friendly, and made excellent recommendations that enhanced our meal even more.
All in all, Gypsea exceeded expectations on every level—ambiance, entertainment, food, and service. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again. Truly and wholeheartedly...
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