Bistro La Plume — Restaurant in Haarlem

When arrived, a friendly waiter told us that our table wasn't ready yet and invited us to sit on 2 stools at a high table.After less than 10 minutes, we were invited to take our seats at our table: it was a beautiful location near a window overlooking the cathedral, with outdoor lights on the trees and the sky lit by the warm lights of sunset. We ordered 1 appetizer (Holtkamp bitterballen, recommended by the waiter), 2 main dishes (Tournedos su poivre and Steak sambal), a glass of wine, and a drink. After the appetizer, we waited over an hour for the main dishes, even after complaining to a waitress (diners from 2 nearby tables arrived later and started eating before us). The waitress said there was a mix-up in the kitchen.The food was good, but the service was slow. We decided to order 2 desserts (Eclair de noisette and Tatin tart), and again, we had to wait 15 minutes; after that we told the waitress that we wanted to pay the bill and that we didn't want the desserts we had ordered. The waitress admitted that there was a problem in the kitchen and brought us the bill. In summary, the restaurant has a beautiful location and ambiance, with a good vibe and good food. However, the service is bad because the staff is disorganized (especially in the kitchen) and the quality of the service does not...

THE VERY UNFRIENDLY HEAD WAITER alias "Floor Manager" ++

We were for an University event at Amsterdam for three nights a Haarlem and tested (so to say) ML bistro, La Plume and finally Café Colette. If we were asked on the place "not to return to", we would opt for "La plume". And a lot of the low critics I have seen are justified.

We came without a reservation and should be placed outside, but then a cancellation came in and we were offered a table "inside". However : The table was very close to the men's toilet and to the "retour of the used dishes", what we coulld not see from the outskirt. On request, the head waiter bluntly refused another table (for two), despite the fact that other tables for two were free and at least one table was staying free all the time we were present. The main dish took close to one hour, and it became evident that staff capacity was unsufficent. Namely a lot of people eating outside on the terrasse. And the loud music, badly choosen, was hardly acceptable. At least, compliment to the kitchen, my confit de canard was as good as in France. And the lady waiters were kind. However, overall, considering the head waiter (better let him go), this "spoilt" the place. A restaurant tester would have given a...

Nice location, with the view of the St.-Bavokerk Cathedral. Food very tasty and ballanced in flavors. I had sea bas and usually I do not eat the skin. This skin was crispy and crunchie , make me try and ate it all. The sauce and the chive mash potato was complimenting and compleeting the dish. The staff Ise (only 17 years old) made my experience very uniques. She was very friendly and attentive. I was asked several times if I am happy with my meal and service. She display a positive body language smiling and having open gestures. I observe her with other customers and she is consistent in delivering in seeking 100% satisfaction. Weather was not very friendly as the wind was strong, cold and was raining for a minute every 7-10 min. She was constantly outside paying attention to everyone and attenting customers imediatelly. I am impressed . I work in customer service more than 20 years, 13 spent as crew for a big airlines. I wish I had her in my team in every flight ! Ise genuinely make great efforts to anticipate customers needs and meet...