Amber Steak House — Restaurant in New York

My recent visit to Amber Steak House left me with conflicting feelings, as the overall experience was a tale of two halves. While the food, service, and ambiance were exceptional, the initial encounter with the hostess left much to be desired.

Upon entering, I was greeted by a less-than-friendly hostess whose demeanor seemed to lack warmth and hospitality. Her lackadaisical attitude was an unexpected start to what turned out to be an otherwise delightful evening. It's worth noting that first impressions matter, and unfortunately, this one didn't set the best tone for the evening.

However, as soon as we were seated, the atmosphere of Amber Steak House began to work its magic. The ambiance was sophisticated, with a blend of modern aesthetics and a cozy, inviting feel. The dim lighting and tasteful decor created an intimate setting, perfect for a dinner outing.

The menu featured an array of steak options, and our server was not only knowledgeable but also passionate about the offerings. Their recommendations were spot-on, and the food that followed was nothing short of excellent. Each dish was expertly prepared, showcasing the chef's skill and a commitment to quality ingredients. From the perfectly cooked steaks to the delectable sides, every bite was a testament to the culinary expertise in the kitchen.

Service throughout the meal was attentive without being intrusive. Our server demonstrated a keen understanding of pacing, ensuring that we felt well taken care of without feeling rushed. The staff's dedication to ensuring a positive dining experience was evident, and it significantly contributed to the overall enjoyment of the evening.

In spite of the rocky start with the hostess, the outstanding quality of the food, the impeccable service, and the inviting ambiance ultimately won me over. While the initial encounter could use improvement, the exceptional aspects of Amber Steak House managed to shine through, leaving me with a positive overall impression. I would recommend this establishment to fellow food enthusiasts, with the hope that the front-of-house staff can match the excellence demonstrated by their culinary...

Wouldn’t exchange my food for a better entree— so keep the $36 entree and this scathing review.

Rave reviews on TikTok led me to the some of the best scallops I’ve had in a while and THE absolute WORST DUCK and stuffed apple I’ve ever had in my life (yuk). Duck seemed more like a reheat — dry. The restaurant was completely unwilling to change it out for something more palatable or better tasting. The manager wasn’t there and Pehea the waitress was adamant all she could do was exchange the side item which had leaked bitterly appalling and criminally offensive beet juice all over the plate 🤢. What’s wrong with people today? (I happen to like beets and have been fortunate to have some great tidbits of beets in my life and I love duck). These shredded red abominations were not in the same class.

Waitress Pehea claimed I’d eaten the leg though I’d only taken three bites as the photo shows. She also refused to take it off of the bill, so as my family ate, I posted the despicably deplorable entree for the world to see. Thank you for being surly enough to spell your name which was easier than fixing the problem. Do better Waitress Pehea — your disposition is as displeasing as the duck meal!

Twenty minutes later, my daughter asked a male waiter and he had the duck removed. When we got the bill it was gone, meanwhile unnecessary conflict over exchanging or removing had ruined my evening meal as I sat disgruntled while others ate. (I don’t argue in public; I made my request multiple times and accepted Pehea’s putrid reply— I won’t beg for food and at this price shouldn’t have had to). Anyone can accidentally serve an unpalatable meal — it’s how you recover customer satisfaction that matters and in this Waitress Pehea, the representative for the evening, left me believing there were other menu fails. Not returning. Don’t go. For great service and great food go to Knickerbocker...

The bread was warmed in a microwave & got hard quick, Calamari sucked. Ordered a steak Medium-well, came back beyond well done, no pink, no juice, just a dry, fully cooked steak, I didn’t want to return it because I didn’t want to be “that customer” so we each had one piece and decided to pack it up and take it home since my kid eats well done steak and I can give the bones of my dog. Lobster mac & cheese had no flavor. We told the waiter if they can bring us containers and instead, they took the food to the back to pack it up. Needless to say when we got home, the steak was missing. Paid $130 for it but they never put it in the bag. I called the restaurant and the first guy told me that is “not their problem. I should’ve looked in the bag”, then he said if I left it at the bar, then I can “consider it lost” (We weren’t at the bar), he proceeded by explaining to me that I “should’ve looked in the bag before I left the restaurant” and it’s “not their fault if I forgot my bag there” (they packed the food, not us) then he said he’s going to pass me to someone else because they get “these types of phone calls all the time”!!! He then passed me to someone else and I explained to them that we never packed our own food. They took the food to the back and forgot to give us our steak. The guy said they couldn’t even find our reservation and I said OK let me get your manager’s name which I was told is “Andre” but it’s a Saturday night and he won’t be there till Monday. I asked if I have his name so that I can reference when I speak to the manager who I spoke to this about & the 2nd person said “I don't have to give you that” & hung up on me!!! WORST Service, by far the WORST customer service I have ever experienced & I will be contacting Andre on Monday however I’m gonna contact my credit card first for my refund of my $250 spent there! If I can give them zero stars, that would...