G Bar and Kitchen — Restaurant in Swampscott

This is a mediocre restaurant for the price point. The dumplings were burnt, the haddock was over-cooked and therefore dry, the pappardelle was enjoyable, but worth $28? Probably not. It’s clear the owner had a decent chef develop the restaurant’s menu, but then failed to make sure those that actually are cooking the meals are executing correctly. The wine list isn’t overly interesting, but the prices are reflective of what’s on there. The inclusion of local distilleries is appreciated. I’m assuming that the lack of quality is related to the typical clientele which frequents this restaurant, which is to say older with diminished taste buds. Focus on food execution, hire someone besides the liquor distributor to develop the wine list, and this would be a great restaurant. Until then...meh.

Owner did not follow through as indicated they would below. Lowering a star for owner’s attitude and lack of follow through.

New edit for Gregg: Sure, send me a message. Happy to see what you can do in the kitchen. Again, it was all execution issues. Everything said was honest and true. I told the bartender my honest opinion that it was ok. One 2 star review out of 70+ is not going to tank your rating. As I mentioned, the rest of the local clientele don’t seem to expect much. Maybe head up to the Ellis Square Social to see how they execute consistently. I want your restaurant to be great so I can go there frequently, but it’s just not yet. Happy to help. Until then, let’s not...

This review is based on my most recent experience at G Bar. My husband and I have been here many times and enjoyed it. This last visit was disappointing. We arrived about 7 minutes late for a 5:30 pm reservation and the hostess immediately told us our table was also reserved for 7:30 p.m. (two hours after our reservation). I don't need to know that. It felt like pressure. The restaurant has always been busy and loud, but this time it was over the top. People standing and talking to others at the bar were practically on top of our table and others. And it was really, really loud. I can deal with all of that. What felt different this time was the size of the entrees. They were much too big. The steak special was huge with a very rich wine sauce. I am an eater. I love steak (really!) and I could only eat a few bites. One of our companions had the veal marsala (described as scallopini cut thin) -- but the veal was cut too thick and the preparation was also very rich. She, too, could only take a few bites. The lighter dish at the table was a breaded, fried chicken dish with salad greens and burrata. But it was bland - really needed more seasoning. The server was, as always, outstanding. Fixed a drink order problem immediately and was incredibly gracious. We've had a couple of different servers, consistently, and we love them. I’m submitting this review because this particular visit was disappointing. I’m hopeful this...

What an amazing place with a lovely interior and ambience. We went for dinner and had mentioned when we booked a month earlier that one of our party had a birthday. They remembered on the night which is great attention to detail. The food was beautifully presented, very fresh, flavorful and delicious. Our appetizers were fantastic then we went on to main courses. I had the haddock poached in pinot grigio - amazing and poached fish would not ordinarily be my choice but I would definitely order it again!! Two people had the duck with amazing sweet potato gnocchi and greens with pancetta - a really well put together and tasty plate of food. My son had the catch of the day, haddock with mushrooms, sweet potatoes and greens - a really lovely entree. A couple of us shared a creme brulee that was exquisite - caramel top that you could crack to get to the creamy vanilla custard underneath. All in all a very good meal and the service was excellent. We...