Judas Tree — Restaurant in City of Niagara Falls

Was previously here and had an absolutely incredible experience; something I shared with many other foodies in my life, and I have been wanting to get back here to bring my spouse so she could enjoy it as I had. Unfortunately the experience this time was not enjoyable, and really left us disappointed. Now quick note, the food was still excellent and the drink selection was vast- that was much the same as previous and I will commend them for their dedication to keeping up such a high standard for those.

On the not so good side this time, the atmosphere- there was a birthday booked and set up about halfway in the dining area. So when we first came in we could either sit next to the cold door, or have to push and plead our way through this crowd to get a seat at the bar which was nearly empty last the party- it seems we were one of the few brave enough to try and fight through them. While I am all for having events at neighborhood restaurants, I think ownership needs to read the room and make sure the event matches the vibe. This is a quote, very intimate small plate restaurant and having 25 plus people screaming and getting intoxicated really was off putting and ruined our date night.

Secondly, the staff seemed to be having some large conflict and it also tarnished the experience. There was one main bar tender girl, a bus boy / helper who didn’t seem to have much to do, and a lead kitchen girl that seemed to be out front a lot. When we sat down it was mostly us and the party which at this point was only 10ish people. By the time we left there was about 35 people and service had slowed way down. The bar tender was busting out drinks, but you can only make so many multi ingredient signature cocktails at a time. At one point the gentleman next to us asked for a simple bottled beer, which the bus boy stepped up to try and get him, and he was scolded loudly in front of the guests that he was not to get any drinks, and and the gentleman would need to wait for the bar tender who took another 10-15 minutes to assist him because she had so many drinks to make for the party.

The final straw was the drunk couple next to us; they intermittently joined the party, and were very visibly intoxicated- multiple times the guy kept interjecting into our meal to loudly exclaim or remark about the charcuterie board we had ordered. Again, I don’t mind a friendly question but having Mr. Drunk loudly yelling from the seat next to us was again off putting, and did not match the vibe of the venue.

All in all, remove the party and this night would have been just as special as the first time I was here. Add the party, and a quite venue was turned into a rager that stopped us from ordering more drinks and food, and seeking another place to continue...

OMG.... how did I miss this place, I've driven by it so many times...but last night, I was introduced to one of the coolest gems I've seen in some time... right in the heart of Niagara Falls.

Judas Tree....coming from Orchard Park, one of the most boring , sterilized places on the planet, where everyone looks like me (grumpy old white dude), and no interesting places to hang out with freinds, the Judas Tree stands in such pleasureable contrast , there is simply no reason not to check out this awesome space they call Judas Tree. (Love the name)

A friend recommended meeting there, so why not. When I arrived, I ordered what I thought was "just another a Pinot Noir", but quickly learned what an extraordnary wine it is....the back of the label said it was imported by Cuvee Imports...a blend of 80% Pinot Noir, 20% Gamy from Burgundy France, (who knew these two wines would blend so wonderfully together),

I paired it with a cheese plate and an amazing figgy pizza. That was simply pure decadence..(I didn't really want to share that with anyone, but not wanting to be rude....I did). Sadly, I can't believe I forgot the owners name, she was lovely, and the young woman at the bar (everyone is younger than me) are exactly the kind of people the world needs more of right now.

I've been in WNY for about 15 years, but the past two I've been on a quest to find the really cool places that most people miss... and last night...I just added another gem to my list of places that give me hope in humanity...but don't take my word for it, check it out yourself. Judas Tree...

...sometimes it's not just about the place... it's about the beauty of the people who give the place a wonderful vibe. You'll know exactly what I mean...

Great local bistro in downtown Niagara Falls. An absolute must if you're looking for great service, spirts and atmosphere. Beautifully remodeled the owners used reclaimed products in updateing this establishment. They have a very roomy outside patio that I'm told will be in use for three seasons, potentially bringing in heaters during the colder weather. Great service, freindly and inviting atmosphere, and a great drink selection. Please support Judas Tree, you'll love it!! #supportlocal...