Union Square Cafe — Restaurant in New York

Just returned from having the most HORRIBLE experience at Union square cafe . First , I must say that, up until Tonight, this used to be our special occasion spot that We have returned to many times over the years for a special occasion but only today’s it was worst time we’ve ever had !!! We chose to come here to celebrate my husband’s 40th birthday . I made reservation weeks ahead requesting a special table for us in the special section That had sentimental significance for Us where in the past , there has been ZERO issues in accommodating our request for this . I even called ahead to confirm they received my request and was told they have and not to worry . Our reservation was at 8:30 pm and We called at 8pm to ask if would be okay if we came at 9/30 Instead and If it was okay to move our reservation. Whoever picked up the phone had said no problem at all and That they would see us at 9.30 and that it was Their Last sitting . We could have easily made 8:30 if needed , but we had a late lunch and felt that 9:30 would suit us better , especially Since they said it wasn’t an issue whatsoever . When we came For our dinner reservation at 9:30 pm As it turned out , our table was given away without Any notice to us and when we asked why hasn’t anyone told us that if we move our reservation our table request would be dismissed and our table given away , it was met with HUGE ATTITUDE from the blonde hostess . She was SO NASTY and rude that it completely spoiled our mood and ruined the rest of the night . They sat us in literally the WORST section of the entire restaurant and when we asked to be moved to the second floor which had plenty of empty tables and explained that this Was a milestone birthday celebration , they simply refused . They didn’t care At all That we came here for a special occasion and have been repeat customers for many many years and came here so many times. What made matters exponentially worse is that we asked to Speak to The manager and the young woman that came out (Maybe her name was Georgina ? Couldn’t really tell as she said it very quickly and abruptly said her name ) , after explaining the situation to her , she didn’t seem apologetic at all or about the rude hostess or that they gave away our table or That they never informed us That our table would be given away . I mean NOTHINg . she obviously does not have the knowledge or The experience Needed to be the manager of a fine dining restaurant or what means to be in service business all together. When our bill came , I was expecting they would at LEAST send us something to show they are sorry and how much That affected our night . Not a thing . Not Even a a Drink or a coffee. We were simply appalled. Even though the food was good enough , no amount of good food compensates for having Such a horrible experience with so much attitude and rudeness and lack of service or Hospitality we’ve encountered today . It completely ruined our special celebration and we had an awful time . I would never be back after this . Also , side note , even though all the staff was dressed properly, this “manager “did not Look proper or professional in her attire at all. Looked like she was dressed for hanging out with friends for brunch On a Sunday in Bushwick . I just find this odd That a Manager would look this unprofessional when Customer facing in a fine dining a restaurant. Overall I’m super bummed and disappointed that out of all The places we could have chosen to go To our to celebrate we chose this place Which messed...

We've eaten here so many times before. In the past I have openly raved about the restaurant and recommended it to so many people. But wow last night might be the last time we visit.

The service was so so so poor. The drinks were so poorly made that I sent mine back and rather than be too harsh and say outright that the drink was horrible, I told the waitress the drink was too strong and she said 'well it's an old fashioned' (as if I possibly haven't ordered thousands of these in my lifetime) and then she said "well what do you want me to do?" That seemed like a strange question to ask. Perhaps she could have asked more questions or offered me other options, perhaps have another bartender make the drink, or any number of other choices.

In the past, the cocktails are the menu items that I raved about the most and it was such a letdown last night that I ordered a beer. If a bartender can't make a PROPERLY mixed old fashioned I wouldn't trust him/her with anything other than pouring a beer. At my local bar, I might be okay with that...at restaurant of this caliber it's absolutely NOT acceptable.

My husband ordered coffee at the end of the meal and he had to ask 3x for half and half. They brought it with the dessert and the waitress had the audacity to say that she wanted it to come with the dessert....really? because we wanted it to come when the coffee was hot.

The food was overly buttery and greasy. It used to be that there was a perfect balance of lightness and buttery...now it was just food saturated in fats. We all a stomach ache later. Also the menu in the past seemed to have more variety...not so much of fish/meat/pasta but more like a variety of more healthful to less healthful. Honestly, I am a butter/oil lover and this was off the charts over the top butter/oil.

I initially ordered the half portion of my meal and the waitress told me that it wasn't enough food and convinced me to order the full size portion...instead it was so heavy and greasy that I regretted listening to her.

The bathrooms were dirty and there were too many people at the table next to us so they kept hitting us. The table on the other side of us was empty for some time so I'm not sure why we were squished in next to a large party (and they might have felt the same way).

I gave it three stars because I think there is still something special about the ambience and maybe it was an 'off night' but that's a lot of things to go wrong. Anyway, I'm sorry to deliver such a bad review but I was extra disappointed because I brought two guests who have never eaten there before and they were surprised that I always spoke so highly of the restaurant.

I know this is a bad review amongst a sea of great ones so take it for what it's worth. To me, this is the sign of a restaurant on the decline not one holding its status proudly. I hope this review...

Union Square Cafe: The Epitome of Dining Excellence!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Last night, a tapestry of exquisite flavors and heartwarming camaraderie unfolded as we celebrated our dear friends' wedding anniversary at Union Square Cafe. This iconic New York establishment wrapped us in a cocoon of culinary wonder and impeccable service, and I must say - our experience was nothing short of magical!

As we settled into our table, we were greeted by Olivia, who would be our guide through this gastronomic adventure. Her warmth, attentiveness, and genuine passion for creating an exceptional dining experience were evident from the get-go. Olivia’s vast knowledge of the menu, coupled with her vibrant personality, made our evening truly special.

We raised our glasses, brimming with well-selected wine, a finely crafted old fashioned, and a bourbon straight on ice that sang notes of rich, mellow oak. A toast to love, friendship, and the impeccable night ahead.

The first melody of the night was a Steak Tartare, which was, in a word, phenomenal. But what truly elevated this dish to new heights was Olivia's suggestion to accompany it with garlic chips as crackers. Olivia was spot-on; the garlic chips added an extra layer of texture and flavor that left us craving for more.

Next, the Bibb Salad danced on our palates with its refreshing and light personality. It was like a gentle breeze on a summer's day - absolutely delightful.

As we eagerly awaited our main course, we found ourselves absorbed in conversations with Olivia, who had become an indispensable part of our celebration with her infectiously cheerful demeanor and insightful recommendations.

Our main courses were then ceremoniously presented. The Pork Chops, enjoyed by two of us, were a masterclass in culinary perfection. The meat was succulent, cooked to perfection, and the accompanying sauces and sides complemented the pork in a symphony of flavors.

Our companions indulged in the Gemelli Pasta with Shrimp. The pasta was cooked al dente, while the shrimp were tender and perfectly seasoned. The dish was a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that danced gracefully on the tongue.

Alas, we opted for a change of scenery and didn't partake in desserts, but judging by the culinary ballet that had just transpired, I have no doubt that the desserts would have been the perfect encore.

As we bid adieu to Union Square Cafe and to the wonderful Olivia, who had become like family, we couldn't help but feel a tinge of sadness. This was not just a meal, it was an experience that would be etched in our hearts forever.

If you find yourself at Union Square Cafe, ask for Olivia. She is the heart and soul that adds that extra sparkle to an already stellar establishment.

A standing ovation for Union Square Cafe and bravo to the incomparable Olivia!

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