Claire's at the Depot — Restaurant in Warrenton

I cannot even believe I am writing this review about something that was such a simple request, but ended up turning into a scene at the restaurant today caused by the lack of respect and customer service by the staff. Today I was dining for lunch with my mother, sister and grandmother. After we received our entrees, my grandmother thought it would be nice to get a group photo at the table, so I asked the hostess/manager (older blonde woman, I didn't get her name) who was setting the table next to us if she could take our photo. She immediately gave me attitude and said she would be able to in a minute. She walked away and did not return. Minutes went by so we just decided to ask one of the other servers nearby (not ours), and the same thing happened. I understand that it was during the lunch rush, but all we were asking for was a quick 10 seconds to snap a group picture. This was not an over the top request. At that point we were just waiting for either the hostess or server to come back, and then all of a sudden another server (who we had not had any interaction with) came out and literally shouted across the room to us "We'll get to taking your picture, it's not like we're busy or anything," in the most snarky and sarcastic manner. Our jaws dropped. The staff were obviously talking about our table in the back, because then our regular server (who we also had not asked to take our photo at this point) came to our table to say she also could not do it because she was too busy. I just could not believe it. I assume the older blonde woman had instructed staff to not to take our photo. At this point, I decided to just get up and ask one of the guests at the table next to us, which then prompted the blonde woman and server who shouted at us (later learned his name is Lewis) to interfere and insist that they take our photo, which Lewis did clearly against his will. The entire situation was ridiculous, embarrassing and showed the utmost lack of respect by getting other staff involved. It's a shame because I have been to Claire's dozens of times over the years, but after this I will not be back and I will no longer be...

The look and feel when walking in was warm and inviting. We were early for our reservation, but were quickly seated. This is where our dining experience peaked. I agree they were moderately busy, but this was 8 pm and tables were open. Took our server over 10 min to greet us and go over the special. Then another 15 min to take our order. We got our soup 10 min later, but never did get our appetizers. By the time we got our Entree, at one hour and 10 min, our waiter had apologized to one table for forgetting their drink orders, another table for getting their entree out really late and yet another for delivering drinks to their friends down the way ---- but gave them to the wrong table!! The Entrees were quite good, but had sat in a warming light before we got them. This type of food service should be plated and immediately delivered and ours was not. We were finished with our entree but no one checked on us or cleared our dishes for 15 min after we were done. Eventually our waiter came and realized he had not brought the appetizer. We asked for a dessert menu where he said, "how about I get you your appetizers now for free and then you can order dessert" (we've been here over 2 hours....) we declined, ordered dessert, received it in 15 min. I paid with a gift card from a dear friend and work buddy and my CC. Of course our waiter rang the entire bill on the CC and didn't apply the gift card. Aarg!! Another 10 min to fix that!

Location; 9 Food: 7 Service: 2

Would really like to support local business's in Warrenton, but unfortunately Claire's is off the list. For as much as your going to pay.....I expect much more.

We went the next day with our family to Firehouse in Gainsville. As an upper scale "chain" restaurant their service was EXCELLENT, waiters were attentive, support staff flawless, and food was much better than Claire's. Prices were as high as Claire's but we will definitely go back. Quick service, no delays and these guys were packed with customers the entire day and they...

Update December 2023. Once again, a fabulous meal. I had the special which was braised beef tips, carrots, and parsnips over polenta. My dining partner had the wild mushroom risotto which was shiitake, oyster and cremini mushrooms, white wine, vegetable broth, parsley, tarragon, and parmesan. She added chicken but it was amazing without the addition. The food was so delicious, I ordered extra dishes to take home to family members so they could indulge too! Service was excellent: Prompt, polite, and attentive. I had reservations as it was Christmas time but the manager said reservations are a good idea year round. This restaurant is certainly worth the hour and ½ drive!

I live north of Richmond and normally meet my friend, who lives in Warrenton, for lunch in Middleburg and then we visit the tack stores. I was running late, so we decided to have lunch in Warrenton. I think, in the future, I will go to Claire's at the Depot in Warrenton and then go to Middleburg. The restaurant was still busy at 1 pm (the Saturday before Christmas) but we got seated within a few minutes. The decor for Christmas was pretty and it's a lovely restaurant. Our server, Jeff, was pleasant and attentive. I am a big water drinker and never had to ask for water. I got the shrimp and grits (the picture doesn't do it justice. It was a lovely presentation). It was very good (and I lived in New Orleans). Another dining partner got the Angus burger which was flavorful. The French fries were also more like fried, sliced, fresh potatoes. The seasoning was perfect not overly salted which is a common problem with many restaurants. They were delicious. The third diner got the Honey Ginger Glazed salad and enjoyed it as well. It was a wonderful experience and I will definitely go back. Addendum: Went back Christmas 2021. Food was delicious. I've never had quiche that was 3 inches thick! Service was great. Lots of nicely dressed people with bags of gifts. Seems to be quite the tradition...