Sadly, The Wishing Well was always my favorite restaurant in Saratoga Springs, and a Travers weekend tradition for my husband and I. This year was different. Our server (Chloe) provided the worst service we’ve had at ANY RESTAURANT in Saratoga Springs.
We had an early reservation (6:30) so they weren’t yet busy when we arrived. She was was very short and disinterested in helping us with food recommendations. When we asked about seeing a wine list and looking for a recommendation, we were grateful she sent her manager (and I think the owner) to help us select a bottle. He was lovely and helped us pick out a bottle we loved. Outside of opening the bottle for us, she never refilled our glasses. We ordered a starter (which came out in 5min) and also a salad (also in about 5 min). She stopped back only to continue rushing us to order our entrees because “she was going to get busy and food would take longer.” When we ordered our entrees, she didn’t return until someone else delivered our plates (very reasonable kitchen ticket times). As she was walking by (barely slowed down) she asked if we needed anything else (both wine glasses empty and full bottle still on the table) and she kept walking away without actually listening.
All the tables around us had enjoyed bread service with what looked to be beautiful EVOO included on every table. They also had beautiful corn on the cob (usually served with all entrees and is my favorite part of The Wishing Well). She never brought either one to our table.
The tables around us had a different server and we could see they were enjoying themselves and the other server was doing a GREAT job. This has never happened dining here before, but unfortunately I didn’t care for the Veal medallions. I flagged down the other server and discreetly shared the experience we were having. I also asked if she could help bring a different entree, and also some corn, etc.
While she apologized for the other server’s poor service and she helped by bringing a replacement entree, no manager stopped by for a table visit. No offer of a discount or dessert or attempt to do anything to save our experience. Just the full check. We were so disappointed and still felt rushed to get out of the table that we immediately left the table and moved to the bar. Ultimately we didn’t even finish our bottle of wine. We left what was left at the bar and just went home.
Thank you to the second server who helped us, but although management spent time helping us pick a great bottle of wine, we were disappointed that when it came to the rest of our dining experience, they didn’t...
Read moreBob Lee knows what he is doing when it comes to service cocktails and especially fine dining cuisine!! I recently had the pleasure of dining at the Wishing Well Restaurant in Saratoga Springs NY. From start to finish, the entire experience was flawless, earning it a well-deserved 5-star rating.
The service at this restaurant was nothing short of impeccable. The waitstaff was attentive and professional, ensuring that every need was met without being intrusive. I admired their attention to detail - they served from the left and cleared plates from the right, demonstrating an impressive level of efficiency.
Now, let's talk about the food. The Ribeye steak I ordered was a true delight. Cooked to perfection, it practically melted in my mouth with each tender bite. The flavor was outstanding, leaving me with a longing for more even after finishing the generous portion.
Equally impressive was the pork chop. It was incredibly tender and packed with an explosion of flavors. The chef's expertise truly shined through in this dish, as each bite was a testament to their culinary skills.
And finally, the highlight of the meal - the deconstructed coconut cream pie. Wow, what a show stopper! This dessert was a work of art, presented in a visually stunning manner. The combination of creamy coconut, crisp pastry, and sweet accents was a symphony of flavors that left me in awe.
Overall, my experience at this restaurant was exceptional. The service was outstanding, the Ribeye steak and pork chop were both delicious, and the deconstructed coconut cream pie was truly unforgettable. I cannot recommend this place enough - it is definitely worth a visit if you are looking for an unforgettable...
Read moreHow have I missed this place in all of my 40+ years in the area? I went here last week to sign the contract for our company Christmas party. Iwithout being presented a wine menu, I asked for a white wine that wasn't house or chardonnay. The mamlnager didn't tell me what it was but it tasted like a sancerre, and I was happy. She asked if I liked it and she told me it was an Italian chardonnay.. the house wine! That just goes to ahow you can't judge a wine because it's on their "house" lineup. Later, when I went to the bar, I noticed that all of their house wines were pretty stellar selections! My coworker and I shared Saratoga chips (a heaping mound, perfectly salted, with house made French onion dip, instead of the typical Bleu cheese dip), and their shrimp fried rice appetizer. This is more than a meal, and a nice spin on the Asian standard. Made with risotto and no sesame oil, this featured a lot of garlic, and flavourful shrimp chunks. The bartender was casual and friendly. The Wishing Well is apparently known for their prime rib, and I look forward to trying it at my party. I will definitely be putting this on my list, even though it is 25 minutes north of work, and 45 minutes east of home. The space is a rustic barn, and has been around "forever" (as evidenced by the customer base and slightly musty odor). They promise Christmas "vomit" (excessive decorations) in December, and I can't wait...
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