We’ve always felt the food is great, though it’s a bit pricey for the amount you get.
Besides that, we’ve never had such horrendous customer service. The man with the fake nice customer service voice has always given me a hard time every time I’ve ordered there. It got so bad that I stopped going alone and just started going with others to mix in with the group and not get his usual condescension and frustration with me. For some reason, when I’m with others, he’s not as bad. The woman who I believe is the owner also gave me a hard time once about asking for extra limes, but I always ignored it all as I thought the food was worth the shitty service. Not tonight.
Tonight they decided to randomly and arbitrarily enforce seating “rules”, even though there are no indications of how the seating is meant to work at this place and they had not consistently enforced those same rules all the previous times I’ve eaten here. I was with a tired child so when we walked in, I asked my husband to hold a table for us so she could sit as soon as we ordered. This is what we’ve done in the past and that’s how we missed out on tables here in the past, by not picking a table before ordering. At most places where you aren’t automatically seated, you see an open table and sit or you put something down on the table you want so you can go order, if you don’t plan to take the meal to go that is. What could’ve been a kind interaction to sort the misunderstanding was an extremely inappropriate situation where the same fake nice guy went ahead and yelled at my husband in front of everyone in the dining room to get up from the table to give it to other patrons (it was so unnecessarily dramatic that the patron at the next table turned their whole body to see the commotion). When we finally ordered we were going to just keep our mouths shut, but nope, he had to bring up his bullcrap and we tried to still stay courteous in response. He then proceeded to loudly make comments to the cooks after putting in our order about how we were upset and such. So, not only did they not handle the situation well in the first place, but the same terribly rude cashier went ahead and made sure the whole restaurant knew that we were apparently in the wrong. You don’t do that and then pretend like you want us to still eat there while everyone stares at us.
Same rude cashier made promises that tables would open up soon, but nobody looked close to being done and if that were really the case, they could have promised the next table to the other patrons that hadn’t sat down yet. But again, how is one to know who is dining in and who is going to take food to go from just looking at a line? How do we know you’re planning to sit at that open table and not the bar seating that was also open?
I’ve worked in customer service for many years in Las Vegas and grew up in a family that also worked in the service industry in Vegas. We know how to treat people and show pride in your work while making your employer look good regardless of the customer’s vibe. That man has been nothing but disgustingly unprofessional time after time, which in my previous jobs would have gotten him fired, but the owners don’t seem to care to even train him better even with other reviews complaining about (very likely) the same man. I hope they rectify his behavior, but regardless of that, we’re never going back. If you want to avoid such stupid petty interactions over tables in the future, formalize seating the system, make signs, do literally anything you can come up with to provide more pleasant ways for people to know the “rules” so they’re not stuck squabbling over the limited seating in your restaurant. Other people have figured out how to handle this at their restaurants, you can too.
I’ve also let my friends know about these repeated issues and the situation we faced tonight and they’re set on not going back either since I’m the one who recommended that place to them in the first place. I used to tell everyone to go to Ba’s, now I’ll send them elsewhere to avoid their...
Read moreNestled in the heart of Albany, Oregon, Ba’s Vietnamese Comfort Food offers an authentic and heartwarming dining experience that transports patrons straight to the vibrant streets of Vietnam. Located at 117 SE 1st Ave Ste 104, this charming eatery has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking genuine Vietnamese cuisine.
Ambiance and Atmosphere
Upon entering Ba’s, you’re immediately enveloped by a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant’s interior is thoughtfully decorated with soft, light decorations, murals, and happy little indoor plants, creating a warm and homely environment. The ambiance is further enhanced by the friendly and attentive staff, who make every guest feel welcome and well-cared-for.
Culinary Delights
Ba’s menu is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam, offering a variety of dishes that cater to diverse palates, including vegan options. Each dish is prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring an authentic and flavorful dining experience. • Pho: A standout on the menu, Ba’s pho features a rich and aromatic broth that has been simmered for 24 hours, resulting in a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. The soup is flavorful but not too salty, with perfectly balanced proportions of ingredients and high-quality meat. It’s a must-try for both pho enthusiasts and newcomers alike. • Banh Mi: The grilled pork banh mi is a delightful combination of tender, flavorful meat nestled in a crispy baguette, complemented by fresh vegetables and herbs. The balance of textures and flavors makes it one of the best sandwiches you’ll ever have. • Noodle Salads: The combination noodle salad is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, featuring fresh vegetables, tender noodles, and perfectly seasoned proteins. It’s a refreshing and satisfying option for those seeking a lighter meal. • Spring Rolls: Both the pork and shrimp salad rolls and the vegan spring rolls are crunchy and flavorful, showcasing the freshness of the ingredients and the skillful preparation. They’re perfect as appetizers or light bites.
Beverage Selection
Complementing the food menu, Ba’s offers a selection of beverages, including traditional Vietnamese coffee, tea, and boba drinks. These drinks are crafted with the same attention to detail and quality, providing a perfect accompaniment to your meal.
Service and Hospitality
The staff at Ba’s Vietnamese Comfort Food are consistently praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. They are knowledgeable about the menu and are more than willing to accommodate dietary preferences, including vegan options. The service is efficient, ensuring that guests have a pleasant and memorable dining experience.
Community Engagement
Ba’s has established itself as a cherished part of the Albany community, with patrons expressing their appreciation for the restaurant’s contribution to the local dining scene. The combination of authentic cuisine, warm ambiance, and exceptional service has earned Ba’s a loyal following and high ratings across various review platforms.
Conclusion
In a town like Albany, where culinary options can be limited, Ba’s Vietnamese Comfort Food stands out as a beacon of authentic and delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of pho, a flavorful banh mi, or fresh spring rolls, Ba’s delivers with excellence. The welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff make every visit a delightful experience. For anyone in or passing through Albany, a meal at Ba’s Vietnamese Comfort Food is highly...
Read moreExcellent sandwich. I ordered the pork Banh Mi with jalapenos and was not disappointed. The pork was extremely flavorful and well cooked, topped with their amazing secret sauce. The breast was nice and crunchy on the outside while being soft on the inside. The favors and textures were overall an amazing experience. I coupled it with an iced Vietnamese coffee and have to say it's some of the better coffee I've had. I typically don't care for coffee but with this was a pleasant experience. It was rich and creamy without the overwhelming dark coffee taste. I didn't even have to add any sugar or anything to it. The restaurant itself has amazing atmosphere with plenty of seating at tables and a long bar style table for people to work on laptops or enjoy each other's company. Being able to see over the counter and watch the cooks prepare your food in real time made it feel very authentic. The restaurant also had amazing portraits depicting who I assume to the family that owns the restaurant. Multiple generations that really give you the feeling they put their heart and soul into their amazing service. I can't speak highly enough about it. If you get a chance, swing by and get yourself some authentic and...
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