Gino's Restaurant — Restaurant in Baton Rouge

I love Gino's and hate to leave a bad review, but this situation needs to be addressed. We had a reservation for a decent-sized party celebrating a milestone birthday. We all arrived in time. The first guests were several minutes early and were told the table wasn't cleared yet. It was before our reservation, so no one thought much of it. After waiting 10 or 15 minutes past our reservation time, we asked if by "clear" they meant of dishes or diners. It was diners. The hostess went to look at the table and said they had their go boxes and everything on the table and were about to leave. 25 minutes AFTER our reservation time, one of us finally said to the group, "Do you want to leave and go somewhere else?"

Only then, when they heard us discussing options, did they rapidly and miraculously find other tables to put together for us. And the room they sent us to had at least 6 empty tables that could have been pushed together. Terribly unprofessional and something I would not expect from a restaurant that's been in business and enjoyed a good reputation in Baton Rouge for decades.

As we waited, a couple of people who were there the week before celebrating another birthday were telling us about their experience on the other end of the reservation situation. They had a very large party, and they were finishing dessert and had gotten their go boxes. The waiter came up and told them they had 10 minutes before other guests needed their table. (This after they had to wait 30 minutes before even their first appetizer came out.) I wouldn't have gone back after that, but they went for the birthday celebration.

Gino's needs to do something with their reservation system because neither option -- making guests with reservations wait or telling a large party of paying diners they have to leave -- is appropriate. Perhaps when reservations are made people can be told they have 90 minutes or two hours, whatever. Or say, "Your reservation is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. We look forward to seeing you." Something other than telling diners they have 10 minutes to leave or making the whole party stand in the foyer for 30 minutes in high heels and dress clothes while people (including the band with a drum set and other instruments) push past them to go in and out of the restaurant!

In all the time we stood there waiting (the whole group trying to fit in that tiny foyer and not block the door way -- everyone standing because there's only one small bench there. It was ridiculous.) not one single employee asked if we needed anything. We should have been asked if we wanted any Laurence bread or a drink or something while we waited. When that didn't happen, we DEFINITELY should have had the table's order of Laurence bread comped for our inconvenience at the very minimum. We did not get so much as an apology from anyone. NOTHING.

In addition, this alone wouldn't warrant a bad review, but I include it in light of the rest of the evening's debacles. The birthday dessert never happened. The person celebrating the birthday was even wearing a birthday sash and "tiara," but not a single birthday greeting was uttered or complimentary dessert offered. (Other birthday desserts and songs went on while we were there.)

The only reason I even gave three stars is because the food was good, as always, and the wait staff was decent (although I have to say collectively not as good as usual).

I find Gino's to be the only good Italian food in the area, but it will be a long while before I grace their establishment...

Gino's restaurant is simply amazing! From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. The food is top-notch, with a menu that offers a wide range of delicious options to satisfy any craving. Whether you're in the mood for a juicy steak, a fresh seafood dish, or a flavorful vegetarian meal, Gino's has it all.

The service at Gino's is outstanding. The staff is attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, always ready to provide recommendations and ensure that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional. They go above and beyond to make you feel welcome and cater to your every need.

And let's not forget about the drinks! Gino's boasts an impressive selection of beverages, from handcrafted cocktails to an extensive wine list. Whether you're in the mood for a classic favorite or want to try something new, their skilled bartenders will craft the perfect drink to complement your meal.

One of the things that sets Gino's apart is its rich history. Having been a loyal customer for 10 years, I've witnessed the restaurant's evolution and growth. It's fascinating to see how they have managed to maintain their high standards while embracing new culinary trends. Gino's has become a staple in the community, and its longevity speaks volumes about its quality and dedication to excellence.

Even after a decade of patronage, Gino's remains my favorite restaurant. The combination of amazing food, exceptional service, and a vibrant atmosphere keeps me coming back time and time again. If you're looking for a dining experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression, look no further than...

Just say NO to Gino's.

What is everyone's fascination with this restaurant? And how does it continue to win 225 awards?? About once a year someone wants to go to Gino's and I acquiesce. And I regret it every time. I've eaten here before Mama died, the night Mama died (as it were), and now, after Mama died, and my meals have been disappointing every time. On my most recent visit, I had the chicken parm. What came out looked and tasted like parboiled chicken covered in an oily red sauce and melted cheese. No breading was apparent on the chicken. The presentation was sloppy. The flavor was both lacking and odd. The chicken parm had a lot of bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, which is an atypical preparation for this dish, and doesn't work here. The red sauce looked more brown than red. I didn't even want to bring home the leftovers. Further, the price ($25 or so for the chicken parm) in no way justifies the quality of the food.

Also, the decor here is so tired, feels dusty, and like they're clinging to the late 80s/early 90s idea of "fancy." May be it impresses the co-eds who spend their week's paycheck from working in the student rec center to take their cutesy girlfriend out on date night, but I assure you, you can buy better Italian food almost anywhere, including the freezer case...