Masal Cafe & Lounge — Restaurant in New York

My husband took me out for my birthday weekend and I know he loves Mediterranean food and thought it would be nice to try local spot close to home. When we got there the space was beautiful with modern cultural infusion of design. Keep in mind they have 2 locations. One block away from each other. The old one that people are referring to does look old and worn out.

The greeter was nice to us and allowed us to sit wherever we wish so I chose. Please keep in mind the pIace was not packed at all. More waiters than tables to serve. My husband and I sat waiting. I had the view of all the waiters and no one would step up to serve us.

I don't like the pull race card. I can't stand when people use that as a poor excuse to misbehave, so we waited to be served. I kid you not it was as if the waiters were trying to pass us off on each other to help us. Each of them made eye contact with me and would stand in the distance and act like they dont see me or they look away once our eyes met. They look and as they pass my table they put their head down to not make eye contact with me. I didnt tell my husband anything because my husband is more forgiving than I.

He then realized we were being ignored and we chalked it up to ok maybe in there culture thats how they move, but then we realized wait, the table beside us is being serviced and they have more than 2 guests and came in after us. So now I am clearly irritated.

The waiter finally comes to take care of us as if he lost a bet and he is moving rather fast as if he wanted to get us over with. I thought he wanted us to put in order for dessert one time so he dont have to deal with us a second time. Again its observation and Im just taking mental notes.

We had our meal and it was alright the lamb was pretty dry but I liked the salad and beef. After we completed our dinner the waiter passed by many times never checking on us or even catching a hint that we were done and just sitting there with our plates stacked. I sat for 10 minutes and then signaled him over to order dessert and the check. The waiter knows we owe him payment and he keeps walking away from us then straddling around. How much time do you think we need to gather our payment? The other staff members are aware as well but no one jumps in.

Then I get up with the payment book and stand up in the middle of floor so everyone an see we are standing with the payment and he finally comes over.

I dont know if they encountered servicing a group of black people in the past that rubbed them the wrong way but I was offended. I don't like to carry on in public as people think all black people have no class.

Anyone who decides to visit there be warned they may not be as welcoming and will walk egg-shells around you making you feel uncomfortable. You may not like me because of the color of my skin then you should not serve not me at all because my money is as good as anyone else’s.

BTW they add the gratuity...

Visiting this delightful Turkish cafe was an experience that transcended the mere act of dining; it was akin to embarking on a culinary journey that delighted all senses. Nestled in a cozy corner of the city, the cafe exudes a warm, inviting vibe that beckons passersby to step inside and savor its offerings. Upon entering, I was greeted by the harmonious blend of traditional Turkish melodies and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee, setting the stage for what was to become an unforgettable dining experience.

The highlight of my visit was, without a doubt, the food. Each dish was a testament to the cafe's commitment to quality and authenticity. The chocolate souffle, a dish that demands precision and care, was executed to perfection. Its exterior was beautifully crusty, giving way to an interior that was molten and rich, with the depth of chocolate flavor that could only come from the use of high-quality cocoa. Paired with a strawberry milkshake that was the epitome of freshness and sweetness, the combination was a symphony of flavors that danced delightfully on the palate.

However, the star of the show was their signature chicken wrap. This wasn't just any chicken wrap; it was a culinary masterpiece, lovingly crafted with tender, marinated chicken, wrapped in a soft, freshly baked lavash bread, and complemented by a medley of vibrant vegetables and a hint of spice. It was a dish that encapsulated the essence of Turkish cuisine—simple ingredients, brought together with care and passion, resulting in flavors that were both comforting and exotic.

Beyond the food, it was the cafe's ambiance that truly set it apart. With its tasteful decor, soft lighting, and the genuine warmth of the staff, it offered a haven of tranquility and hospitality that is increasingly rare in today's...

AVOID THIS PLACE... the service was never good, however, I liked the place and the owner seemed like a good guy. TODAY was the last straw, my gf and I waited patiently to get seated, the waiter completely ignored us and went on to people behind us, and the people behind us where nice enough to explain to the waiter that there are people waiting in front. Ones we finally got seated we ordered food to a person who barely can speak English or Russian but this was typical. After a short 10 min one plate was served, which I though was kind of odd since we both ordered the same thing, so I waited for her food to get served... 20 mins past and i asked the waiter to please check up on her food, he said ok and complete disregarded what I said and continued to wash tables. Another 20 mins past i asked the same persons to please !!We've been waiting for almost an hour.. 5 mins past a women walks up to us, asking what we ordered, I explained to her how me and my gf got the same thing and she never got her food. So the new waiter said ok it will come shortly, AFTER ANOTHER 30 mins with out food I called another waiter saying this is ridiculous... his response was listen you don't want you can leave.. I never been put in such a position where the people that work there literally do not care about the customers not one bit.. I said I want to talk to the owner... in which they tried everything possible to prevent me from seeing him or talking to him.. in short I left and went to OPERA which is 3 blocks down and much better, I WILL never go back to this place again, if the owner sees this I will gladly point out the waiter... if the owner doesn't care well you lost about 7 regular customers that...