Charles B.
Yelp
So much potential, but no happy ending!
A group of us went to 19 Cleveland and we were so excited because we all love Israeli food.
I give 19 Cleveland the following rating:
Food - 5
Ambiance - 5
Service - 0
Here is the reason for the above rating.
As you enter the restaurant you can't help notice the fantastic retro vibe; from the records on the wall to the "On Air" neon sign hanging over the bar, it is the quintessential NYC atmosphere that you want out of a restaurant.
The food is not only appetizing, but is also visually stunning; here are the items that our table had:
- Grilled Halloumi Cheese (this was a table favorite, the honey glaze is to die for!)
- French Fries (The table needed two baskets - okay, I needed two baskets, so unreal I can't stop thinking about them)
- Gnocchi Istanbul (I literally licked the plate clean! Everything from the spinach to the almonds were perfection).
- Safta's Chicken Schnitzel (my friend said it was cooked to perfection and the mash potatoes were excellent)
- 19 Hamburger (looked amazing and my friend ate every bite, so I would say that is a win!)
- Greek Lamb Chops (A healthy portion of three, the tzatziki sauce was so delicious, I kept dipping my fries in)
Everything was going so great, the table kept ordering cocktails and my friends and I were having a good catchup session... and then the service took a turn for the worst.
1. The second order of fries did not come until the very end of our meal (An excuse was made that "this is why you have to order everything at once") I am sorry, if can still eat I should be able to order a simple order of fries.
2. The server came over and put the bill down and said "the table is timed and you need to hurry up", we wanted to order another round of drinks, and we were never offered the dessert menu). The server hovered over our table and harassed us to ensure we left the restaurant.
We spent over $300 dollars and did not ask for much during our visit, the least 19 Cleveland could do is provide good service and not make your guests feel like they are putting out the restaurant by being there.
With so many places in NYC with equally as good food, you would think that you would try to stand out with great service.
My friends and I will not be returning to this establishment as we will not put up with mediocre service that leaves an awful taste in your mouth.