raul "Yelp Addict" z.'s Profile
Date
The showroom is quite small and overcrowded. Some of the equipment seems that it has been in the showroom for a while and it is a little dirty/dusty and not in very good condition. We walked in and two people behind the counter, while nice, they were not very helpful. We told them of our party and they said, "yes, let us know when you decide". We took our time looking around but a good sales person would have been more involved and give us options on chairs, plates, glasses combinations, etc.
We knew we need the rentals, so we are kind of trapped with them... In fact, some of the equipment in the brochure was not in the showroom. When we asked, they did not even have pictures, they just describe them. We were not familiar with the names, description and sizes of plates, silverware, etc. as stated in the brochure and what we were looking at in the showroom. We kept asking questions and they would just shout short answers from behind the counter.
However, when it came for us to tell them what we needed, (I even made a comment to my partner saying "do I get a sales commission? I did all of his work!") they were friendly. We made the order. A deposit is required. We told them the day of the event. All the rentals are delivered the day before and left in your driveway or assigned location. Then is picked up the next business day. As our event was on a Friday night, it was delivered on Thursday and picked up on Monday afternoon. They only require that the equipment is placed back as it was delivered and plates do not need to be washed, just rinsed off.
The equipment was fine but some of it was not in very good condition. The bar was quite nasty and well pass its usable time. I got my cleaners out to try to make it more presentable (it was white so all stains showed up easily) but to no avail. We ended up putting a tablecloth over it to help disguise the bar condition. In addition, one of the coolers we ordered did not have a spigot stopper so as the ice melted, the water poured out into our yard where people would be standing. So we had to do some more fixing. Some of tables and chairs where also past their due date. Luckily, the party was at night so some of the imperfections where hidden. The rest of the equipment was ok. The rentals were delivered with no problems and picked up as scheduled.
In summary, this is a rental that, sadly, seems to have most of the monopoly of this side of Long Island. A few other rental locations but could not supply all we needed. Ok service, ok rental equipment and ok condition makes this an "A-OK" place to rent from. Go to the showroom knowing what you need and get the sales person to be more involved in the sales process otherwise, you will be left on your own.
As I mention, the menu is very eclectic. There is from chicken, to pulled-pork, to tacos to quesadillas. Of course, the specialty of the house is all seafood related items. I was in the mood for fish and chips, which I ordered ($8.95).
At first, the portion was very good. There were three pieces of the very overcooked and overly fried, flavorless fish. The fish was very thin as well. At some points I felt that I was eating more fried bread crumbs than actual fish. The fries, while tasty and spicy, where too greasy which means that they were either re-fried or fried in very old oil that needs to be changed. The food did not impress me much...
While I am a fan of "Bravo! Nader's" restaurant, this is one I won't be coming back to anytime soon. I rather go back to the restaurant and eat well cooked delicious food than the scaled-down version of it.
New York, NY 10036
(212) 575-5848
HB Burger
Category:
Burgers
Neighborhoods: Midtown West, Theater District
We were immediately greeted by the server and it seems that he was in a very big rush to get our orders. Seriously, there was hardly anyone in the restaurant. There was about 5 tables only! We ordered some beer and the portions where quite pathetic! I had a 'pint' for $6.95 and I swear I got half of a pint. The server just stood there to take our order. What's the rush? Can I read the menu first?
We both ordered the chophouse burger for $12.95. Each additional topping costs an extra $1.50. We both ordered cheese and I added mushrooms and onions. I think I was done with my super small portion of beer by now but would not pay an additional $6.95 for another anemic serving. I am staying with water.
While we waited for our food, the busboys had to move chairs and bar stools from one side of the bar to the other. This is the kicker... they were sliding them on the floor from one side to the other and it made a horrendous scratching noise against the hardwood floor. The noise was so loud we had to stop talking. Even the people seated a couple of tables away from us started shaking their heads after they saw what was happening. Meanwhile, the server is missing and no one to complaint. This went on for a very long time. We were getting very annoyed!
The food took a long time to arrive. We were wondering why it was taking so long as it was only about 5 tables and most of them were already eating. While we waited for the food, our very rushed server was nowhere in sight, my glass of water empty and were are getting annoyed. Finally the food arrived. By now, while the food was good, we are not having a good time. The burger was juicy and thick, but for $12.95, it was a small burger. The fries were crispy and portion ok. I am still chewing the last bite of my burger and the rushed, missing for long periods of time server appears to collect the dishes and offer desserts. We had to tell him to give us a moment. He comes later and we ordered the 'smallest dessert' and it was the highlight of the meal.
This place is for made for large groups and events. The downstairs is set up as an entire stand alone section for these events with a bar. The bathroom is also located downstairs and it was clean. We paid the $60+ bill and left.
The Final Verdict:
Restaurant Ambiance/Decor: 3.0 out of 5.0
Staff Service/friendliness : 2.5 out of 5.0
Seating Arrangement/Layout: 3.0 out of 5.0
Seating Comfort: 1.0 out of 5.0
Food Quality/Flavor: 2.5 out of 5.0
food Price/Value: 1.0 out of 5.0
Wine/Alcohol Selection: 4.5 out of 5.0
Wine/Alcohol Taste/Flavor: 3.0 out of 5.0
Wine/Alcohol Price Value: 1.0 out of 5.0
Bathrooms Cleanliness: 4.0 out of 5.0
Price Value: 1.0 out of 5.0
Final Score: 26.5 out of 55 (48 out of 100% or F grade)
Final Comment: While the food is good, it is overpriced and very slow to come out. Service, while friendly, is rushed no matter how many people are in the restaurant and floor presence is non-existent. Lets just say I won't be coming here anytime soon... or maybe at all.
New York, NY 10018
(212) 643-0770
Element New York Times Square West
Category:
Hotels
Neighborhoods: Hell's Kitchen, Midtown West
Location: It is on 39th street between 8th and 9th Avenue (closer to 8th). We took the train to Penn Station on 34th street and walked the 4 blocks over to the hotel. For the subway, you need to walk back to 34th or up to 42nd street. The closest line is the A, C or E (blue) lines.
Lobby: Quite a small check-in counter with everyone congregating in the small area. There are three stations in this L-shaped desk for the front desk agents and one around the corner for concierge. The desk is located in the hallway that leads to the elevators so you can imagine every guest with luggage checking in and out plus those other guests walking to get to the elevators... it is quite messy. Meanwhile, there is a huge seating area located in the lobby. Some re-arrangement and placement of the furniture could help dramatically with the flow of people and guests.
Rooms: The room we had was located between two of the elevators. My first thought was that we were going to be up all night with elevator noise but we did not hear a beep. We got an upgrade to the 34th floor with a north facing view of the city. The room has dark hardwood floors with a full kitchenette with a full size refrigerator, pots, pans, silverware, cooking utensils, paper towels, microwave and a dishwasher! This would be a great room for someone who will be a long-term guest. The only problem is that the closet was next to the bed and I literally had to step on the bed (and I mean, on top of the bed!) to open the closet doors. Really bad placement of this unit.
There is a nice glass work desk and a very small TV (for most hotel standards) and a loveseat couch. The windows are double-panned so the street noise is minimal but late at night can still hear some. The window frame is metal which transfer cold air in and staying here in one of the coldest days of the week made the window area a little drafty. The aircon unit worked well.
Bathroom: A nice clean look to the bathroom however, the counter space is VERY lacking. The sink is quite big and stands out of the counter. Personal items have to be placed around the sink or in the ledge over the toilet. Lighting and mirror is good. The "rain feel" shower-head was nice however the water pressure kept going between strong and low all the time which was annoying. There is a hair-dryer and plenty of towels.
Amenities: This is the best part:
(1) free internet (which is a luxury in most hotels).
(2) free breakfast with egg,bacon and cheese sandwiches, waffles and home fries as well as pastries, cereals, yogurt, fruits, coffee, tea and juices available.
(3) Free Happy Hour with red and white wine, beer and plenty of food with cheeses, tortilla chips, salsa and hot meat "empanadas" which where quite tasty and delicious. The bartender was very nice serving full glasses of the wine. As anything free, it gets quite crowded in the lobby area but there is quite a nice seating area behind the elevators to accommodate guests.
My only problem is that I did not see much of a control of people coming in and out (which could lead to people walking from the street to grab a bite) as keys were not checked but who knows hat kind of security measures they have in place. Some yelpers complaint about being crowded but that's what happens when free food and alcohol is offered. Would be the same in any other hotel.
Gym: One located in the basement but did not use.
Wake-up call: Did not use however our phone rang once at 8am and again 5 minutes later... I was quite upset as we had a late night the night before and were still sleeping. I wondered if it was housekeeping trying to wake us up?
Service: Friendly front desk staff and concierge. As the concierge was right next to the desk, they were able to jump in and help guests while being checked-in but again, the desk being so small it gets very noisy and crowded but they do their best with the available situation. The bartender at happy hour and security staff were very friendly. The morning staff helping with breakfast was very good dealing with the massive crowd and kids spilling drinks and food all over the floor.
Door and Bellman: While I was there, it did seem that there was one person doing double duty and while the hotel was busy, we had to wait a long time for our bag to be stored and be picked up. In fact, I had to ask the concierge to help us track the bell/doorman down to retrieve our luggage. The security agent offered to help us but the door/bellman appeared shortly thereafter.
Overall Experience: No doubt that I would stay here again, specially if it is more than one night. Friendly staff and free amenities that in other hotels in a luxury and location make this a favorite hotel of mine.
Chicago, IL 60630
(773) 725-1300
Gale Street Inn
Category:
American (Traditional)
Neighborhood: Jefferson Park
We had to wait a little for our table to be ready however we did not care as it gave us a chance to enjoy the band and drinks. The table was ready shortly thereafter. As we looked at the menu, we realized we were there for the "Monday Rib Special" which is a full-slab of ribs for $18 with one side dish. The main dining area has tables spread out which made it nice for a nice conversation. The decor is a little dark but it is ok. I would do a little revamping of the decor as it is getting a little worn out.
Our server was great and friendly. Always making sure everyone was having a good time. We order two bottles of red wine and took our meal orders. I had to order the Monday nighty special with the french fries. My friend ordered the fish special of the day which was a trout with spinach and vegetables. The ribs were delicious! The meat fell off the bone and it was very tasty. The fries were very crispy. The side dish was quite small and I wish I had more fries. The fist was very tasty and delicious too. For dessert, I ordered the chocolate mousse. While it was delicious, it was too sweet and could only eat a bit of it. It also tasted too generic but did not stop me from easting some of it. Everyone had doggie bags to go home afterwards.
This is a place I will recommend for the food, ambiance and service. Just a little re-vamping of the decor will make this place even better!
New York, NY 10036
(212) 239-6200
Barrymore Theatre
Category:
Performing Arts
Neighborhoods: Midtown West, Theater District
As we walk in, we found a nice modern and bright lobby. It is quite modern and very art deco. It has a very big fish tank, funky red lighting, interesting seating and bar. It is a little confusing to get your bearings the first time in the lobby but after a while, we got used to it. The hotel consist of two buildings across the street from each other and connected by a skybridge. The main building faces the ocean and the other one a lagoon. Prices are based if you have ocean, lagoon or street view. The check-in process was smooth with a very professional staff. The concierge were very friendly and attentive.
The main building has a great pool with a slide, volleyball net, poolbar and plenty of seating around. There is a smaller 'salt' pool as the beach area is small and it is for those who do not want to deal with the sand. Finally there is also a whirlpool. The beach is quite small but never crowded. There is also a Starbucks next door where you can charge your purchases to the room. Massages by the pool are offered but it is very expensive.
The room is quite nice with a nice big bed facing the ocean. All rooms have balconies to sit outside and enjoy the ocean view and listen to the waves breaking against the coral reef and feel the nice warm breeze. There is also a nice couch to watch tv. The only problem is that the tv is very small and was quite disappointing. The bathroom was one of the biggest I've seen with a huge shower, a refrigerator, coffee machine and a big mirror and sink. In fact, the bathroom was almost as big as the bedroom! Nice closet size and decor makes this room quite an enjoyable one. Free internet for guests.
There are plenty of restaurants in the hotel. One is a tropical cafe style with lots of latin food offerings and a great view of the beach. This one opens for breakfast and opens until alte afternoon with light and main entrees offerings. There is also a sushi bar next to the casino, Pikayo and a few other ones. (Pikayo Restaurant in separate review).
As for entertainment, the casino is, for San Juan standards, small but has live music so it is enjoyable to sit at the sushi bar and listen to the nightly band. The lobby had a DJ but no one dancing and two of the three bars, and what it seems the dance area were closed. Bartenders did a good job at making great martinis and friendly staff.
The fitness center is located in the second/across the street building. It has good machines with televisions on each. All equipment worked well. This smaller hotel has the business center which is attended during business hours and offers all types of business necessities. It also has a smaller and more private pool for those who do not want to go to the main hotel building.
Every night we were offered two complimentary bottles of water. The poolbar made fantastic drinks and the food was very good too. Our overall experience was great. Do not have a complaint at all. This is a hotel I would love to come back to and spend more time relaxing and enjoying the many amenities offered here.
New York, NY 10036
(212) 757-2277
5 Napkin Burger
Category:
Burgers
Neighborhoods: Hell's Kitchen, Midtown West, Theater District
Meanwhile, after my first fiasco, I decided to give it a second try. I ordered the burger and 24 hrs later, I am hugging the toilet with food poisoning. I work in a hotel nearby and, while I used to refer my guests over, I will stop doing that from now on. Sorry.... 5 napkins gets a zero rating from me!
1 Previous Review:
-
2/18/2009
I was craving a good hearty... ok... not that hearty, more like cholesterol clogging burger but I was in the mood for one. I decided to try this place as I passed it once and was quite intrigued by it and did see that a lot of my favorite "yelpers" gave it a 4 to 5 star reviews.
As I was alone, I decided to sit at the bar. Ambiance is good with an upscale diner style. Décor was nice and very open. Many families and large groups of people sat at the tables while I decided to take a corner spot at the bar to do some people watching.
As soon as I sat down, I had a menu in front of me from a bartender who did not even say "hello" even though I did say it. Was she in a rush? Nope... she did it to every other patron at the bar. Everyone will say "hello" and she will just put down the menu and walk away. However, once you got her talking, she will be polite but forgetful.
I did order the "5 Napkin Nut Brown Ale" ($6.50) which is a little pricey for a 'pint' of beer but it was quite tasty and refreshing with a glass of water... I never got the water.
I ordered the "inside out" burger ($13.95), which is the same as a regular burger but without bread. Instead of bread, two large pieces of lettuce cover the burger. All of the burgers come with fries but I am an "onion ring" fanatic; so I decided to take the option to change the fries for the cornbread covered onion rings for an additional $2.50. By now my "friendly" bartender (thanks to the fact that I am a "chatty-kathy" and got her engage in some conversation) forgot, twice, that I wanted the burger medium well as well as a glass of water with the beer... argh! Ok... I am letting it go...
Then the kicker... the food arrived and it is pathetic! Here is the breakdown...
... and I also found out why is called "5 Napkin Burger"...
The burger was rather small... fast food burgers are bigger... yeap! five bites and I ate that whole burger... The burger is advertised as a 10 oz of pure ground chuck burger. I think it is made with 5 oz of real meat and 5 oz of fat which disappears while is being cooked. Don't get me wrong; the burger flavor was good. But if I am going to be paying $20 for a burger and onion rings, I want to be satisfied and my belly full when I leave the place. Nope... not at this place.
Even though I paid an extra $2.50 to replace the fries for the onion rings and all I got was 5 pieces of onion rings. Even the fries portions where small and pathetic looking.
A burger that can be eaten in 5 bites + 5 pieces of onion rings = 5 Napkin Burger! You can eat everything in the restaurant in 5 bites! One napkin for each bite... Mystery solved!
As I was doing my people watching, I do like to pay close attention to the interaction between the waiters, bartenders, busboy and clientele... I mean, when you are in the service industry as I am and get to know the "ins and out" of it, we can tell a lot of things by just watching the people that work at the place. (If you are a "fan" of mine - or become one today - you do know I make a lot of comments on that department).
I did notice that the servers at this place have some kind of attitude... hello... you work at an "upscale" burger joint! And there is one quite handsome waiter who looks more like a "muscle man" wearing a very tight shirt and pant. All he liked to do was to 'parade' himself around the restaurant with a walk and attitude like saying: "watch me.. I am too good for you... You can look but you can't touch" Ok.. whatever cuteness you have is all gone now with that stupid and silly attitude...
After I paid my total check of $25.00 plus tip, why did I have to do? I walked a block away and ordered a slice of pepperoni pizza at a corner pizzeria. That bad... and what a waste of money at the "5 Napkins".
Lavatories are unisex, with 3 of them individually enclosed and with a shared sink. Lighting is quite low in this area. For women who want to check their makeup or for anyone who want to do a double-check in appearance, it is hard to see yourself in the mirror.
I read all of the other reviews and I don't know if I was there in an off night or what... Everyone seems to love this place, but seriously, I won't be coming back.
The Final Verdict:
Restaurant Ambiance/Decor: 3.0 out of 5.0
Staff Service/friendliness : 2.5 out of 5.0
Seating Arrangement/Layout: 3.0 out of 5.0
Seating Comfort: 3.0 out of 5.0
Food Quality/Flavor: 3.0 out of 5.0
food Price/Value: 0.0 out of 5.0
Wine/Alcohol Selection: 4.5 out of 5.0
Wine/Alcohol Taste/Flavor: 4.5 out of 5.0
Wine/Alcohol Price Value: 0.0 out of 5.0
Bathrooms Cleanliness: 3.0 out of 5.0
Price Value: 0.0 out of 5.0
Final Score: 26.5 out of 55 (48 out of 100% or F grade)
Final Comment: All I have to say is: spend your money elsewhere. There are many other great restaurants in the area where it will be cheaper and more satisfying. Don't bother coming here.
Guess when we got the water after asking for it 5 times? At the end of the meal, almost ready to leave! Is Bayville in a water drought situation?
Furthermore, we had to wait for our food over 1 hour! Every table around us that arrived after we did got their food before us. At one point, we thought that it was because we ordered the lobster but when we saw a table of three people getting their lobster before we did, we had to speak to a server. Our server came with our food a few minutes later and when I directly asked her, she said: "It is because we have an upstairs and downstairs kitchen. I have to go to the kitchen downstairs and sometimes whip their asses!" (Direct quote! I wrote it right away so I won't forget).
Three times here and, while the food has been great, waiting time and service is really making this place become not one of my favorite ones. The only seller, sunset views and good food... forget the rest!
1 Previous Review:
-
8/3/2011
I've been here three times and my experience, food-wise, has been fantastic. But service...
The location of this place is fantastic. The sunset views are amazing and the fact that there is plenty of outside tables (come early) to watch the sunset is a plus. The views of the Long Island sound are great as well as of the people and boats going by at the beach. Both times we were here they had weddings and the set-ups were fantastic.
The first time we came, we sat outside. When you got a bunch of teenagers working as servers for the summer, standing at the bar station chatting away instead of serving, you know you are in for a ride. We sat down and every 5 seconds the teen-server kept coming by to ask for drink orders and food order... let me read the freaking menu first! But I let it go... Then we order our Martinis. I asked for a glass of water as well. Server brought the martinis, did not place a napkin down and forgot the water. I asked for water again. Every time I lift my glass, water fell all over my clothing. Water has not arrived yet.
After reviewing the menu, we had to wait for an eternity for our server. We kept looking around and around to see if we caught anyone's eye but they just kept walking right by us. Finally, after 15 minutes of waiting, the server appeared with no apologies. We ordered the food and he, again, was gone! By the way, I asked for water again.
The food arrived and it was fantastic. I am still waiting for my glass of water. We ordered bar menus such as the sushi and sliders. Great, very tasty food. Service is VERY lacking! But I rather watch the sunset and forget the teenagers chatting and laughing coming from the bar stand....
We came back again with a group of 16 people. It was my 40th and my partner's 50th birthday. We had celebrated the night before at The Glen Cove Mansion. Now we are here for one last get-together and dinner before everyone flies home. We rented two vans to bring all the guests from The Mansion. They had a nice set-up for us in the restaurant downstairs were we could enjoy the view and sunset out the window. Again, lets go down with the service...
The server, while nice and somehow professional, was very rushed. Mind you that the restaurant was 2/3rd empty and we had people that flew in from China and others we have not seen in 5 years or more. Of course we want to chat and enjoy the company. By no means, if the restaurant was full, we would have slowed down the service but let us take a moment to read the menu while we enjoy our drinks, deal?
When wanting to take orders, she will interrupt conversations and just start out shouting the specials of the day. Has she heard the words: "Good evening"? No need for her to stand and start shouting specials and make all of us quiet down by force... nice touch! Meanwhile, she spent a lot of time chatting with what it seems like a regular guest by herself on a table nearby.
By the way, I was a server in a 4 start restaurant and have learned proper service, how to set down glasses, plates, etc.. This place need this training. And will I explain why...
Remember that I mention earlier that the restaurant was 2/3rd empty? The tables all around us were empty. But the server, when she brought out the food with the assistance of a few other ones, started passing the food over people's head and from one side to the other. In fact, my friend who was sitting next to me, got hit in the head with a plate she was passing over her instead of coming around and serving it to me. There is no need for that kind of service. And I was ready to make a scene but not in front of my friends and ruin the good times we were having.
The food, once again, was fantastic! I was having the swordfish which was super delicious and tender. The side dishes were good as well. My friend was having the full lobster and she ate every part she could. I tried the filet mignon and it was tender and cooked to perfection. The lamb was great. Everything was super delicious!
I just wish the service was as good as the food...
Only one set of restrooms that is shared with the wedding parties is quite annoying. One bathroom attendant who looked like he is 15 yrs old sat in a tux in a chair inside the bathroom that had no space for him who rather text and play in his mobile phone than clean it, pass out tissues or even acknowledge you are there... no tip from me, young boy!
The Final Verdict:
Restaurant Ambiance/Decor: 5.0 out of 5.0
Staff Service/Friendliness : 1.0 out of 5.0
Seating Arrangement/Layout: 4.0 out of 5.0
Seating Comfort: 4.0 out of 5.0
Food Quality/Flavor: 4.5 out of 5.0
Food Price Value: 4.0 out of 5.0
Wine/Alcohol Selection: 5.0 out of 5.0
Wine/Alcohol Quality/Taste: 5.0 out of 5.0
Wine/Alcohol Price Value: 4.0 out of 5.0
Bathrooms Cleanliness: 2.0 out of 5.0
Overall Price Value: 4.0 out of 5.0
Final Score: 42.5 out of 55 (77 out of 100% or C+ grade).
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Huntington, NY
Yelping SinceMarch 2008
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I walked in and spoke to Mary. I explained to her our plans. She was very helpful! She assisted me in putting the menu for my event together. She explained to me all details of the food menu for the party and even did variations of what was in the catering menu to accommodate our needs. Besides the food, they provide juices for the mixers, ice, bartender and the servers.
The staff arrived 30 minutes before the arrival of our guests. (They usually ask for 1 hour but we requested for 30 mins). They went to work immediately. The staff was very nice and professional. When guests arrived, appetizers were immediately passed and the bartender offered drinks. They were constantly ensuring that all guests had enough food and drinks. At the end of the party and when guests departed, they stayed for a while longer helping clean up the dishes and area. Plenty of leftover food was nicely packed for us and place in the refrigerator.
This is a place I highly recommend for all of your catering needs. As Franco C. said, a little pricey but it is worth every penny. Service is fantastic and food is delicious. A place I will use again!