So here’s the thing, my family and I all have experience in the customer service environment and understand when things are hectic in a restaurant. But this experience was something we all agreed on that it was just a wreck. We went for Mother’s Day/my mother’s birthday and set a reservation for 6pm. All arrived within the good time frame as well. When we got seated 10 mins after 6, we were not greeted until around 6:20-6:30. Then we waited even longer for a drink order which didn’t arrive for another 10-15 minutes. The servers were basically running around like chickens with their head cut off and were clearly not prepared for the holiday. We didn’t get a food order in until an hour after we had arrived and then had to wait until almost 9pm for our food to come out. We are not angry or impatient people. The servers compensated with free bread and whatnot but beyond the apologies, it was a mess. We watched multiple tables around us that arrived after us get their food before we did, and watched the male server yell at the employees a ton and he even yelled at our server in the middle of her taking orders from us. It was really awkward. They even pulled a wrong ordered plate away from a customer as they were about to take a bite from it which is absolutely astonishing. The owner was kind but was very much not doing a great job. He was taking photos of families for social media but it was ironic because a large majority of them were not even happy during that moment. He didn’t really do anything to try and help out the employees either and at some point there was customers literally wandering around trying to find their servers because there was basically nobody, which we assumed meant everybody was scrambling in the back to help prepare the meals since tons of food for people all came out at the same time besides ours. The food itself was good and cooked well, but the timing was poor. My mother had to wait over an hour for a simple salad and still got the wrong cheese put on it. We also weren’t even supplied silverware until after we were given our food and I had to wait an extra ten minutes for my own food to come out after everybody else’s. The bartender was also unable to make a correct drink and used small ice cubes instead of a large ice cube regardless of them having large ones. Which is like bartender 101. The service was just poor. We were all appreciative of getting two free deserts and some extra Mother’s Day flowers for the compensation of waiting so long. But for 300 dollars for five people and receiving some pretty small portions that could’ve been made better at home, it was a bit of a downer. It was a nice experience of a restaurant we had all not been to before, but we will definitely not...
Read moreAhoy, fellow culinary explorers! If you're on the hunt for a dining experience that's as thrilling as finding buried treasure, set your course for Gambi's, now splendidly docked at 55 E. Nugget Avenue in Sparks.
As a devoted patron since their days on Town Square Way in Reno, I've been delighted to follow Gambi's on their voyage to this new harbor. Their relocation has brought them a mere seven-minute jaunt from my shop, a convenience that my taste buds celebrate, even if my belt does not.
The moment you cross the gangplank into Gambi's, you're embraced by an ambiance that masterfully marries nautical charm with modern elegance. The spacious interior, adorned with maritime décor, invites you to embark on a gastronomic adventure. The wrap-around bar is a perfect spot to observe the skilled crew concoct your favorite libations, with ample seating that ensures comfort for all who come aboard.
Now, let's navigate to the heart of the matter—the cuisine. Chef Spencer, the culinary captain of this ship, consistently delivers dishes that are nothing short of spectacular. My personal logbook boasts entries of indulgence in their T-bone and New York steaks, each seared to perfection and bursting with flavor. These hearty cuts are accompanied by a creamy risotto that could make even the saltiest sailor weep with joy, and asparagus so tender it practically melts in your mouth.
Gambi's wine selection is a treasure trove for oenophiles and casual sippers alike. Their extensive list offers the perfect pairing for every dish, ensuring your dining experience is as harmonious as a well-rehearsed sea shanty.
In summary, Gambi's has not only preserved the essence of what made them a beloved fixture in Reno but has also elevated the experience in their new Sparks location. Whether you're a seasoned patron or a first-time voyager, this establishment promises a dining adventure that's both memorable and delectable. So hoist your sails and set a course for Gambi's—you won't be...
Read moreWas here last night for my cousin's wedding. We were seated on the patio and apparently the first party to be seated on the patio. Our server was amazing the entire time, made small talk, and made sure that we were well cared for during our dining experience. Ended up getting a cup of the Soup of the Day which had been a tomato bisque and quite possibly the best I've ever had. The table shared calamari and mushroom appetizers and everyone's entrees started arriving a bit later. The timing for everything was great. I had ordered the fettuccine Alfredo and my son had the Gambi's burger with cheese. My only issue out of the whole thing was that his burger was meant to be medium well and came out somewhere between medium rare and medium. My cousin's brother also had that issue with the burger. My son enjoyed it regardless. The entire experience was great and we met both the owner and the chef. We got dessert at the end (key lime pie) and that also did not disappoint. All in all an amazing dining experience.
As if all of that wasn't enough, the entire restaurant had a pirate/nautical theme throughout and that really just added to the experience. As soon as you walk in, every table, wall, and lighting fixture was part of the themeing. Inside the restrooms, the theme continued.
Highly recommend trying this place out. From food to drinks, their pricing is reasonable. The service was friendly and attentive, and the whole...
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