Ausiello's 5th Street Bar and Grill — Restaurant in Santa Rosa

While visiting the area, We decided to check out a sports bar to catch the Sunday Night NFL game. The place had the usual sports bar vibe, although they called themselves the "5th Street Grill."

The wait staff was friendly, and there were plenty of open seats for a Sunday night. The atmosphere felt typical for a sports bar. My group of four ordered some beers, wings, and burgers. The food was average at best, and honestly, overpriced for standard bar food.

When the bill came, I was shocked to see an 18% "Sunday Football Tax" along with a 3% "CA Wage Charge." I asked the bartender about these charges, and he candidly explained that the 18% was usually for parties of six or more (we only had four), and the Sunday Football charge was "listed on the menu.” (super fine print int the corner of the menu). As for the 3% wage charge, he said it was to "recover from COVID-19." It's 2024, and it has been a long time since I encountered another establishment charging such a questionable fee. As a first-time visitor, I would have expected the staff to mention these charges upfront. My sons work in the service industry, and I always tip 20% or more based on the service—unless I’m hit with an 18% charge that I didn’t agree to in advance.

The next day, I reviewed my bill more closely, and the numbers didn’t add up. The subtotal was $141.75. The 18% "Sunday Football Tax" should have been $25.51, but they charged me $26.99. Sales tax in Santa Rosa is 9.75%, which would have been $13.82, but I was charged $16.83. Then there was the 3% "CA Wage Charge"—it should’ve been $4.25, but I was charged $4.50. I’m not too bothered by the 25¢ difference, but when three line items don’t add up, it makes you question the legitimacy of the charges.

I called the next day and spoke with Matt, who identified himself as one of the owners. We had a pleasant conversation where I expressed my concerns. He said he needed to check with someone else and would get back to me. The next day, I received a text from him with a copy of my signed bill (attached). He said he reviewed it with his brother and confirmed that ALL service charges are taxed. Seriously?

I won’t be returning. This place seems to be nickel-and-diming customers during tough economic times. I suggest taking your...

The food was great! Beer selection was delicious! But if your caught talking about a podcast, politics or some the lady bar tender does not like...she will ask you to leave. So...be careful what you talk about. Or she will ask you to leave.

Follow up to response below: You will notice the owner remained vague in facts. This location only values what speech their manager decides is appropriate or not. What it didn't say, to be clear, is the staff will monitor what patrons are discussing at their own tables or seats. Your staff will decide if it is free speech or speech they don't like. Regardless if customers are talking quietly about a topic that they like. I quietly spoke to a gentleman next to me about a couple Podcast we like, a conversation he initiated. We were quietly talking to ourselves. If you are going to limit free speech in your bar, I recommend you post that legibly on your door, before a patron walks in. The atmosphere was fine, until your bar tender decided she didn't like us talking about something she didn't like. When I brought it to her attention, that she does not have the right to make me stop having a conversation with someone about a topic she does not like; unless you make it clear to all person's that enter the facility, that you will be monitoring their speech. She then kicked me out and still charged me for a beer that was almost full, which she took away. Which was a good beer by the way! I leave this hear for the next person that has an issue with her in your place, so there is record for the next person that actually wants to sue your establishment for restricting their right to free speech. Oh, for those readers that may ask, no I was not causing a disturbance, I never raised my voice or made...

My review is purely based on the ambiance, service, and drinks. I’ve been to this bar several times with my friends. We usually come in the evening for drinks, but last time was an exception, we came for lunch. I just went with my usual beer, and the girls got some food. Huge thank you to our server! You were amazing! He ALWAYS checked in on us, never rushed us, was super patient, gave us a couple of recommendations, and was just nice and friendly. We really liked him! Sorry, that I didn't remember your name. Evenings are a whole different scene, from our lunch experience. It’s always packed, and finding a seat is almost impossible, so be ready for that. But somehow, they still always manage to take drink orders pretty fast, with that many people in. I really like this bar. It’s always a good time, and they have a great beer selection. The staff is friendly and efficient, the restrooms are clean, and the outdoor seating area is pretty big. So if you can’t find a seat inside, there’s a good chance you’ll get...