I wouldn’t exactly call this fine dining. Upscale maybe... For my 35th birthday last weekend, my wife brought me to NYC for a show and dinner at Lobster Club.
She made reservations well in advance, called ahead and noted on our reservation the she has Celiac.
She was diagnosed last year but prior to that had experienced many great places to eat. She raced to me about her experience at Lobster club on a business trip.
Many places we go are more than accommodating with notice as little as 24 hours. It’s incredibly easy to make gluten free ponzu and other sauces from tamari.
Upon arriving 5 minutes or so before our reservation @9pm, we had to wait an additional 20 minutes before we were taken to a table. We informed the hostess again about the Celiac and gluten free request. She seemed surprised.
At most higher end restaurants it’s typical that reserved covers are reviewed before prep, seemingly not at Lobster Club.
While waiting we purchased two bottles of Premium sake, ready to celebrate and enjoy.
Upon being seated we informed our server of the Celiac and GF needs, he checked on a few sauces and basically nixed the entirety of the menu, save about three or four items.
Usually we order ALL of a GF menu or available items.
We decided on what we were going to have, I’m not GF and don’t have Celiac but hate when my wife is told she can have “just a salad” or a protein with no seasoning.
That’s a gross misunderstanding of what this disease is and how easy it can be to modify food.
She settled on her main which was about the only thing she was told was okay for her to eat, then about 20 minutes later, with no refills on water, no apps and almost completed bottles. We were informed that the only item she could have was 86 and there were no other accommodations that could be made.
We spend over $200 on just bottles of sake and had a cover that would have amounted to over $700.
Because nothing was read nor communicated to us on the front end, with the ample notice provided. We asked for our check and left.
No manager came to the table, not a chef, only our confused and unapologetic waiter.
We paid and left. Happy birthday to me...
Now, with my wife upset that I was somehow disappointed in her choice, we scrambled to find somewhere to go at 10:30pm to enjoy a Birthday celebration. We enjoyed a great accommodating meal at Quality Italian.
I suspect this will fall on deaf ears and because we live out of town there isn’t much you can do to remedy this.
You could add and mark gluten free items or read your reservation notes before hand and try to be an upscale restaurant that cares...
Read moreThis restaurant exceeded all expectations! A definite must-visit for anyone in NYC craving exceptional food, service, and atmosphere.
Starting with the ambiance, stepping through the revolving doors transports you into a world of elegance. The golden bar, stocked with top-shelf selections, catches the eye immediately. To the right, a chic cocktail lounge area adorned with rose gold velvet chairs invokes a nostalgic 70s vibe, complemented by tasteful gold accents. The red room at the back exudes glamour and sophistication with its rich red accents, creating an atmosphere of opulence. Even the bathrooms, with their beautiful and impeccably clean facilities, maintain the luxurious gold theme. Our choice of high top booths near the cocktail lounge allowed us to fully appreciate the architectural beauty and aesthetic charm of the restaurant. The Motown music added to the ambiance, setting the perfect mood for enjoying drinks and good company.
Now, onto the customer service - our server Mary was simply outstanding. Her blend of humor, warmth, and reliability elevated our dining experience to another level. She went above and beyond to accommodate our dietary restrictions. Her attention to detail ensured that each member of our group felt catered to and comfortable throughout the dining experience. Celebrating my birthday, Mary's attentive service and infectious smile made the occasion even more memorable for our group of four.
And then there's the food... where do I even begin? Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, leaving us wanting more with every bite. The flavors were so exquisite that I was tempted to lick the plate clean, but of course, I had to maintain my composure. I could rave about the entire menu, but some standout items that deserve extra praise include: Wasabi lobster** Lobster tempura roll (hand cut)** Wok lobster** Wagyu skewers* Edamame* Lobster dumplings* Spicy...
Read moreThe Lobster Club is a unique Japanese brasserie located in New York, designed by world-renowned architect Peter Marino with a modern style and classy. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted with a stunning decor that combines traditional Japanese elements with contemporary design. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with a focus on food and socializing rather than formality.
The menu at The Lobster Club is a celebration of Japanese cuisine with a unique twist. Classic techniques like tempura, gyoza, yakitori, and robata are on display, along with a focus on teppanyaki and sushi. The restaurant sources fish directly from Tokyo's Tsukiji market to ensure the highest level of quality. Everything on the menu is designed to be shared, making it perfect for groups or couples looking for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Some standout dishes at The Lobster Club include the spicy tuna roll, which is made with the freshest fish and just the right amount of heat. The lobster tempura is another must-try dish, featuring succulent lobster coated in a light and crispy batter. The wagyu beef and truffle robata skewers are also a crowd pleaser, with tender and flavorful beef paired with the rich earthiness of truffle.
In addition to the amazing food, The Lobster Club also boasts an impressive selection of cocktails, sake, and wines. The bar is a great place to relax and socialize with friends while enjoying a signature cocktail or a glass of wine from the extensive list.
Overall, The Lobster Club is an exceptional dining experience that is well worth the high price tag. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner for two or a lively night out with friends, this restaurant is sure to impress. With its impeccable service, stunning decor, and incredible food and drink, The Lobster Club is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable Japanese dining experience in...
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