I hope this review helps prevent anyone else from having the experience I had dining at Bay Leaf five points south location. The night started well with my server... He brought my meal as requested. However towards the end of my meal the night went for a turn for the worse. This other server came to my table while I was on my phone talking with my wife and without saying excuse me ask if I was needed help getting "this". I assumed he was asking about my utensils and disposables since I was wrapping up my meal. However he meant the check. I asked were they closing he chuckled yes in sort of a statistic matter. Mind you they were at least 3 or for other tables still dining. Also I asked a question concerning my bill. The restaurant offered a special with one main, one appetizer, and naan bread for set price. I asked him why wasn't I charged that price if that was the special the restaurant offered. He said b/c I didn't say the exact words concerning the special I didn't qualify for it. I asked to speak to a manager b/c his attitude was very unprofessional at this point. I told my wife I'd call her back because I realize he was being contentious and I wanted to put my full attention on him. Surprisingly he was the manager(Patrick) and made emphasis with saying it by slapping his hand across his chest saying "I am the manager". By this point I asked him to back up and give me personal space, b/c he did this standing close to me on my right side. He backed up. I then asked for his full name to know who exactly I'm talking to and he said no angrily and walked to back to the back of the restaurant were only employees would go. I had to get up and go to the register and ask my original server(Jay). To confirm if he was the manager because It was a shocked to me his display of unprofessionalism. Jay answered politely but he said he couldn't do anything because he was not the manager. Their was also a young lady who was a customer at the bar who seemed to be a friend of Jay and of the staff who interjected herself in my conversation with Jay to explain the menu prices and legalities of the restaurant business like she was a employee. I even asked her was she a employee due to anxiousness to explain to me more about Bay leaf than the server and the manager, which was just rude. That made me feel like I was been isolated and attacked by staff and their friends. I normally don't right reviews.. However I was compelled to because the disrespect, unprofessionalism, and dinning experience was unpleasant. It ruined what was initially a decent meal. Bay Leaf owners of you read your review s and care about your customer experience please make sure your staff professionalism and customer service matches the cuisine experience.
Peace and blessings and remember the servant is the...
Read moreWe went for the second time to this restaurant for our anniversary yesterday at lunch.
I personally am not an Indian food fan, However I love this place and I just cannot carry on enough about how flipping delicious the food is on their lunch bar. Can you believe it at a lunch bar I mean it's amazing. I'm not going to mention any specific dish because literally every single thing that we ate which was pretty much everything was as fantastic as I could carry on about. It's not the biggest lunch all you can eat bar in the world but I cannot express that you will be just fine because it's all so good.
The service that we had from someone who seemed to be possibly a front of house manager was the kindest most gracious and friendly gentleman I think we've had in a very very long time.
We mentioned that my wife wanted to go to the restaurant for our anniversary and he immediately was showering us with kindness and brought us 2 free mango drinks from the bar that had mango in yogurt which I highly recommend that you try. Please be aware though that this drink is very heavy and when you drink it it will take up some of your food space.
Not only that but then he brought us a little tiny dessert with something that I can't pronounce but it has a cake or different kinds of cakes and little cinnamon cake things around the outside. Again I don't know what it's called but it was delicious and he even was so kind he put a candle in it for us for our anniversary and lit it and brought it to the table.
Not only is this a good restaurant but these are good good people. I really want to encourage you to go buy this place it is worth the pain of parking downtown and walking just a couple of blocks to go there.
Finally if you work at UAB you are very close to where this restaurant is and if you are not hitting this place up for lunch every day then you need help!!!!
You will leave the restaurant with your belly hurting just like I did :) !
Thank you, Bay Leaf, For making our anniversary so special. We can't wait to get back to see...
Read moreBay Leaf offers an authentic and vibrant Indian dining experience that stands out in Five Points South. From the moment you step inside, the welcoming aroma of spices and the warm, inviting ambiance set the tone for an unforgettable meal.
The service at Bay Leaf is impeccable. I go at least twice a week for lunch. They always make me feel welcomed and always come by the table to say hello. The staff is kind, professional and knowledgeable about the menu and eager to offer recommend. They are attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that your dining experience is seamless and enjoyable.
The menu is a culinary journey through India, featuring a wide array of dishes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some standout items: The samosas are crispy and flavorful, setting a high standard right from the start.
The butter chicken is rich and creamy, with tender pieces of chicken cooked to perfection. The lamb Rogan Josh is another highlight, boasting a deep, complex flavor profile that is both spicy and aromatic. The naan was perfect, soft and buttery.
The rice pudding was an excellent choice for a sweet conclusion to a delightful meal. The cocktail list is innovative, incorporating Indian spices and ingredients to create fabulous drinks. I had the turmeric chakra and it was excellent!
Bay Leaf excels in every aspect, from its ambiance and service to its outstanding food. It's a place where authentic Indian flavors are celebrated and elevated, offering a dining experience that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you're a seasoned lover of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, Bay Leaf is sure to leave you with a lasting impression and a desire to return.
Bay Leaf delivers an authentic taste of India with a touch of modern flair. It's a perfect spot for a special night out, a casual dinner, lunch, or any occasion that calls for delicious food and...
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