MadTree Parks & Rec + Event Spaces — Restaurant in Blue Ash

We had a very disappointing experience for our first time to Parks &Rec this evening. My mother had reserved a table for our large group days in advance. However, when we arrived the tables they said would be reserved for us were taken... So that was weird. We head a short wait while they put together a new table for us. When we were ready to order, we found out that they were out of SO much. 4 beers were out. No kids Mac n cheese. Out of the cocktail I ordered. Out of avocado. I ended up ordering the taco nachos. When they arrived, I was first surprised by how little food there was for $17. Like the tray wasn't even full. Then I noticed it was missing guacamole... Because apparently they were out of that too! The nachos were fine, nothing special- but I felt like it should've been discounted since the expensive part of the item was missing!! My husband ordered the tofu sandwich. He said it was "ok" when it finally arrived -AFTER THE REST OF US WERE FINISHED EATING. Our server put the order on, so I don't know what happened or why the kitchen didn't make it. Again, I felt like that should've been comped. Our kids also didn't get the cookies that were advertised to come with kids meals because... They were out! They also didn't have any small boxes to take food home. So I guess they just really haven't figured out their inventory for nice weekend/holidays, because our poor server was constantly having to tell us they were out of this or that. Overall, the food was good- but nothing I'd go out of my way for and I did feel like the prices were high for what you get. We thought maybe they were rationing portions since they were apparently running out of everything! The outdoor space is very nice, especially for kids. But we...

Wow! This place is incredible. It exceeded my expectations in all ways!

Service: The whole place is self seating but FULL service! I came for the grand opening on a Thursday during lunch rush and all of the staff were wonderful like they have been training weeks for the opening.

Food/drinks: The food came out hot, fast, and delicious. I am vegetarian and got the tofu sandwich (highly recommend). I don’t drink beer typically but the Madtree beer hits different. My favorite is shade (it is like a sour). They also have special crafted cocktails on draft if you aren’t a beer person and I think like full bar options. The prices for drinks and food are very reasonable. I also love that they recycle and they also compost extra food, napkins, straws, and other things.

Atmosphere: It was such a warm and welcoming space. The space is huge! They have a patio area (includes many tables, 4 fire pits, and a playscape in progress), a lounge area, a huge bar, and a traditional dining area. There are also 2 good size event spaces. It’s like a combination of Alcove and the Oakley taproom. Has a more casual, bar feel but also very great dining experience. There is also a kids play area inside with a real repurposed camper and many games for kids and adults both. I also love the living wall and ferns hanging around the space. It truly encapsulates the sustainability and community focus of the company.

Accessibility: there is a calming room, universal changing station (in family restroom), sensory kits, all entrances are flat and wide, lots of wheelchair accessible seating (even at bar), and the outdoor playscape was designed by children in the disability community.

In summary, you’ve got to see it for yourself...

I’ve always been a huge fan of MadTree. When they first opened up on Kennedy, 2.0 in Oakley and the Alcove downtown. What a great addition to the Blue Ash area and even better! Larger and with more tables and event spaces. Love the landscape to the outdoor patio. There’s fire pits and it’s more inviting. They also make all their meals in house. From Appetizers, Brunch (yes all day), salads, sandwiches, pizza and an awesome drink menu. They have everything to their beers on taps, wine, sway, specialty cocktails, and more! You can sit anywhere (except reserved tables) and you get waited on. Lindsey and Gina (sorry if I misspelled your name). They were both very down to earth and attentive. We ordered:

Dinner: -The Forager Pizza Olive oil, minced garlic, mozzarella, goat cheese, wild mushroom mix, pine nuts, truffle oil -Beet & Quinoa Salad -Wings -Mammoth Pretzel with extra bier cheese Drinks: -Pineapple Poblano Margarita -Skygazer wheat ale -Ahuevo Mexican-style lager -Queen city Pale Ale -Porter There

Wow! All the food was amazing! Especially the pizza! Loved the ingredients and the crust was thin- combination of crispy/soft. My friends enjoyed their meals as well. I can’t get enough of their margarita. Not too sweet and loved the spicy/salt rim. The espresso martini was a great dessert drink! I could’ve ordered more but didn’t want to get drunk. Overall it was a great experience and can’t wait to come back and try...