Circle Tavern At the Princeton — Restaurant in Avalon

Despite the high marks, I had a very mixed experience. The Hostess ( Older woman in long white skirt) did not listen to my request to join a party already there and was not the slightest bit interested in accomodating us. Her position, stated repeatedly, was "but they've already eaten". It was stated three times (at least). I told her that I understood that and was requesting that we all be able to sit together. Please note : the restaurant was no more than half occupied. I was ready to compensate someone up to $50 to seat our party (5) at a table for 8 so our relatives could join us. We found out that this was impossible - not logistically but because she would not have it happen. Whoever she is, she needs an immediate crash course in customer service. I'd happily return - and probably leave immediately if I were to encounter this uncooperative soul again. I urge you to remediate her resistant approach. Oh, unfortunately our wonderful Server Reese(sp?) was exposed and hopefully not infecred by...

The bar itself is pretty cool, but things with the staff were a little weird. We went on Sunday and were told we could not sit at any of the MANY open tables because they were reserved. The next day, we tried to call and make a reservation and they told us they don’t take reservations. I don’t know who was lying when, but it was very odd. The server asked us to cash out early so she could leave, but told us the bar was open until 2 am ( the hours posted online). At 12:30, the bar had about 25 people in it, and they kicked us all out because they were closing early. I work in the industry, and it is crazy to me that you would shut down a busy bar an hour and a half early. If I were the owner, I would not...

Excellent food but some of the worst service I've received in my life. After being seated outside by an unfriendly hostess, we waited for 15 minutes before being asked about beverages or apps. It was pulling teeth to get our waitress to come to our table to refill beverages (which are charged for) or to order more food. The task of obtaining more napkins took over 15 minutes to complete.

The kitchen staff would also walk out onto the dining patio area and stare at all of the guests eating. It was very odd and made a few members in our party uncomfortable.

All of this is a shame, because the food was quite good. 2 stars for the food alone, but will likely not return...