A Mixed Experience at Ford's Garage
I recently visited Ford's Garage in Norwood and had a mixed experience that left me with a range of impressions. While the food and atmosphere were noteworthy, the service fell short in certain aspects.
Let's start with the positives. The food at Ford's Garage was enjoyable, offering a range of classic American bar favorites with a twist. The menu showcased innovative and creative liberties, and one standout was the Wasabi cucumber sauce accompanying the fried pickles. Surprisingly delicious with a kick, it added an unexpected flavor that elevated the dish.
The atmosphere of Ford's Garage was undeniably captivating. The sight of a whole assembly line hanging from the ceiling, with a Model T in the center, was an impressive visual spectacle. The frozen bar top was another unique touch, ensuring that drinks remained chilled while adding to the overall appeal of the establishment.
However, I must address the service, specifically at the bar. It was evident that the bartender was under a significant amount of pressure and working tirelessly to meet the demands of a bustling establishment. Despite the slow service, I want to emphasize that it was not the bartender's fault. She was clearly overwhelmed, yet she did her best to attend to our needs whenever possible. It was commendable to witness her dedication amidst the chaos.
What concerned me, though, was the lack of managerial support. Throughout my visit, I couldn't help but notice a person who appeared to be the manager loitering near the host stand, seemingly preoccupied with other tasks. Meanwhile, the bartender struggled to handle the bar area and fulfill drink orders for both her customers and the entire restaurant. It was disappointing that the manager did not step in to alleviate the bartender's workload and ensure exceptional service for all patrons. Only towards the end of our 45-minute visit did it seem like a backup bartender had arrived to provide assistance, leaving me to wonder why it took so long for help to arrive.
I must commend the hardworking staff, including the bartender who maintained a strong work ethic despite the challenging circumstances. However, I sincerely hope that the managerial team at Ford's Garage takes note of this review. It is essential for managers to actively support their team members during busy periods, ensuring that customers receive the exceptional service they expect and deserve.
In conclusion, Ford's Garage in Norwood offers a delightful culinary experience with its creative take on classic American bar food. The unique assembly line atmosphere adds to the overall appeal. However, the service, particularly at the bar, suffered from slow response times and a lack of managerial support. While the hardworking staff deserves recognition, it is crucial for the management to step up their game and provide the necessary assistance to create a consistently exceptional dining experience for...
Read moreVisiting from Pres-kit, Arizona!
Were we 💯 blown away by the place! Traveling out from Arizona, for a weekend of the Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter, we had been on our feet all day, and were looking for a good place to really chow down!
We started with the “Nashville Hot” chicken wings as an appetizer! WOW! We had never experienced “Nashville Hot” before! These wings were by far the best wings I’ve ever experienced! They were cooked perfectly, crispy on the outside, perfectly seasoned and with both a wet sauce and dry rub! I highly recommend! I chose the crispy chicken sandwich, and added a piece of Tillamook Cheddar cheese to it. It came with two sides, one being their fries-which were incredible. Almost seasoned with a Cajun rub! The side salad with Ranch was awesome, perfectly dressed with just enough dressing-not too much and not too dry! My husband got the “estate” burger, and their truffle fries! I’ve never tasted a burger like that, and the truffle fries were the best I’ve tasted! My daughter got the steak and mashed potatoes, with Cole slaw. She said it was easy to cut, amazing and perfectly cooked! She liked the seasoning and the portion was huge! MY son got the All American burger, which all of the buns had a fun branding in the bun! He said it was perfectly cooked patty, soft, tender and juicy! The tater tots were cooked perfectly, crispy on the outside and soft in the middle! We ordered the recommended desserts; Key Lime Pie, Molten Lava Cake and a turtle brownie to go! We can’t wait to see how that is! Our Server Shannon was SO kind and attentive, we literally had to ask for NOTHING! She was ON IT!! The ambiance was SO fun and so unique! Their bathrooms were so fun! The prices were GREAT!
I loved this gem, and I’m so sad that I will not be around to come back! But hey, Fords, you would be a huge hit in Prescott, Arizona! We would love to have you!!
Thank you for the awesome...
Read moreFord's Garage has two locations in the Cincinnati area, and one of them is right down the road from my house. When it first opened, it was nearly impossible to get a table at dinner time. But now that things have settled down after a year and a half, you should have an easier time walking in to find an open table. Avoiding weekend evenings would probably still be a good idea though.
The restaurant space is wonderfully themed of old model Ford vehicles and other automotive artifacts. The highlight has to be the assembly line of car frames that dangle from the ceiling in an assembly line fashion.
On my first visit, I had the buffalo chicken sandwich topped with blue cheese dressing, chopped romaine, and tomato and served with fries ($13.50). I upgraded the fries to onion rings, which I would highly recommend. Their onion rings are top-notch! The sandwich was also great and included a very large piece of fried chicken and the blue cheese dressing was creamy and delicious.
My kids have enjoyed the junior cheeseburger and the grilled cheese, both served with fries ($6.99). The fries are also well-seasoned and perfectly fried.
My wife was pleased to find that any of their signature burgers can have the burger patty subbed with a chicken breast, turkey, or veggie burger for no additional charge. She opted for the estate burger with smoked gouda cheese, sweet red onion marmalade, arugula, tomato, crispy onion straws, and white truffle bacon aioli ($15.99). She was happy with her selection and commented that the marmalade was delicious.
Overall the food is great at Ford's Garage. Our service has been quick and efficient. We...
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