The Nightwatch Lounge — Restaurant in Grand Rapids

I visited Nightwatch Lounge around midnight with my husband and another couple visiting from out of town. We had just finished a wonderful dinner at Leo’s and wanted to end the night with a drink at a place I had previously enjoyed. Upon arrival, we ran into some friends already seated in the lounge area. We showed our IDs, exchanged greetings, and opted to sit at the bar rail, which was mostly empty aside from a few seats at the far end.

Shortly after sitting down, we were asked if we were part of a particular group. We mentioned we were chatting with friends but preferred to sit at the bar. Moments later, we were again approached and told that someone in the group—a young woman who had just turned 21—might feel imposed upon by us being nearby. We had not spoken to or interacted with this group at all and were simply minding our own business.

While trying to read the menu and have a conversation, we noticed the bartenders talking among themselves and glancing at us. Over 15 minutes passed without anyone offering to take our order. When we were asked a third time if we planned to sit at the bar, I finally replied, “Yes, is it okay if we sit here?” Only then were we allowed to order, after more than 20+ minutes of being made to feel unwelcome.

As someone with experience in the hospitality industry, I always aim to be respectful and understanding of staff. But this experience left a lot to be desired. The automatic 20% gratuity policy seems to have removed any incentive for quality service, and it showed. Based on our visit, and after reading similar concerns in other reviews, it’s clear this isn’t an isolated incident.

I felt embarrassed having brought friends from out of town, who happen to be distillery owners themselves, only to experience such poor hospitality. We left unimpressed and disappointed. I would not recommend Nightwatch Lounge to anyone expecting warm,...

The Nightwatch Copper Door Speakeasy! My Wife and I had a bit of trouble finding the Nightwatch to begin with after asking around and getting pointed in the proper direction. We headed through the first copper door, up a flight of stairs and through the next copper door, and we walk into a unexpected cozy, speakeasy lounge. There was one other couple in the Nightwatch besides my wife and I so we were told to sit anywhere we like. We sat down and were looked after immediately. Service was excellent and they took the time to answer all our questions. The cocktails are unique and delicious. My wife an Expresso Martini that she instantly told me I had to try. I was very good with a hint of salt and licorice that made it taste slightly like the Dutch candies I grew up on. I had an Amaretto Sour, and it was very delicious also. Before we left I also had a Mezcal and Amaro shot with the bar tender that was looking after our table. This was one of the great stops we had in Grand Rapids, if we are back in Grande Rapids we will definitely stop in again. Very nice décor, and Dutch art throughout the lounge with a cool...

As I walked in I was a bit shaky as I have social anxiety, yet love to wiggle and dance. The door person was fine to me until she saw my hands shaking and started asking who I was meeting.

I shook that off. Went to visit my friend. Couldn’t find where to order. Finally found a seat at the bar. took 20 minutes for a drink menu and sitting at the bar, it took another 20 to yield a server and another bout of sitting while they walked back and forth for said drink. I don’t drink for deliberate reasons and was present for the vibes and to dance. It was a free event, so I was simply ordering to tip and it only seemed worth it as they were clearly too short staffed and the people behind the counter were in fact working their butts off. Kind of expected better service in such a location. Mocktail was gorgeous at least....