Upon arriving at Maggie Mays on Botanic Avenue we were greeted with a 20 minute wait before even being acknowledged by staff. Despite the fact that multiple servers constantly walked by us, they decided to ignore us and not offer any greeting or explanation for the wait (which we would have readily accepted). We were only greeted by the staff when another patron had called us to their attention and told them that we had been waiting for a long time. A server wearing a red bandana explained that three open tables were booked for a party, which we happily accepted. However, this was followed by her returning to where her colleagues were gathered at the back of the restaurant and rolling her eyes and mouthing “Can you believe them?” All three members of my party currently work in the service industry and have for years, so we understand how stressful it can be and that venting to colleagues is an important way to vent. However, it is downright unprofessional to give off about customers waiting not only in front of the specific customers, but in full view of the entire restaurant.
After half an hour we were seated. Again, as we work in the service industry, we would have been very understanding of a long wait if we had been informed or even acknowledged at all. As soon as we were seated, our server with the red bandana stated that since we had such a long wait, we probably know what we wanted to eat and were ready to order. We would normally have appreciated such prompt service - however, we were not given a menu during our wait.
The rest of our meal was fine. The food was good as always. However, we expected better from Maggie Mays and were disappointed by the service in the...
Read moreMaggie May's is a culinary haven in Northern Ireland that left me utterly impressed during my visit. As an American exploring the local food scene, I found this gem to be a delightful mix of tradition and innovation. The menu, a fusion of local flavors and global influences, offered a culinary journey that was both adventurous and comforting.
The diverse range of dishes showcased the richness of Northern Irish cuisine, and each bite was a testament to the skillful preparation and attention to detail in the kitchen. From hearty stews to mouthwatering seafood, Maggie May's truly encapsulates the essence of the region's gastronomic tapestry.
Equally commendable was the impeccable service provided by the staff. They exuded warmth and hospitality, making me feel not just like a customer, but a welcomed guest. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to offer recommendations added a personal touch to the dining experience, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal.
The ambiance of Maggie May's was another highlight. The cozy yet vibrant atmosphere created the perfect setting for savoring the delicious fare. Whether it was the charming decor or the inviting aroma wafting from the kitchen, every element contributed to a memorable dining outing.
In summary, Maggie May's deserves a resounding five stars for both its exceptional food and stellar service. It's a must-visit for anyone eager to explore the culinary wonders of Northern Ireland, and my experience here will undoubtedly be a...
Read moreThis is for the Botanic location... The booths must have been made in Victorian times when people were half the size. I nearly broke my kneecaps on the table. Which is ironic because if you ate here a lot you soon wouldn't fit in the booths at all... The food is ultimate greasy spoon. Visited here a lot in my student days because it was cheap and you went home stuffed. Like everywhere, it's getting more expensive and the portion sizes are slowly reducing but it's a risky little game for a place that is renowned for its cheap slap up meals and cutlery/glasses that may or may not still have someone else's lipstick on them. Despite that, the food does taste good. If you're really hungry and just want a big feed it's a good choice. I go here for the milkshakes which are out of this world. Last time I visited there was a drunk guy leaning through the door singing a song about a menstruating woman. Eventually a member of staff casually herded him away in a manner I felt showed he'd had quite a bit of practice with this particular task. Anyway, that's Maggie May's... There's pros and cons but if they can manage avoiding price hikes we'll all continue to put up with the cons because the...
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