Elismary A.
Google
I visited Agave restaurant for the first time last night while in Downtown Hartford. The restaurant closes at 8:00 PM, and I arrived at approximately 7:40 PM while looking for a quick sit-down meal (not fast food) before a long drive home.
Upon entering, I went directly to the bar and asked the bartender, Isaiah if it was too late to come in. He repeatedly stated, “We close at 8:00 PM,” without directly answering whether it was okay to stay. Since there were multiple parties already seated in the dining room, including a large birthday celebration that was actively being served, I assumed it was acceptable. I also knew exactly what I wanted to order and intended to be in and out quickly.
Unfortunately, the bartender’s demeanor toward me was extremely unpleasant, dismissive, and unwelcoming from the start. This stood in stark contrast to how warmly and attentively he treated the birthday party. At no point did he offer basic hospitality or check in to see if I needed anything. I wasn’t given the opportunity to order additional items such as chips and guacamole.
When my quesadilla was served, it was slammed down on the bar top, landing directly on top of my cellphone, an action that felt both careless and disrespectful. I finished my meal quickly and prepared to leave.
Despite the poor service, I still tipped well over 20%. I calmly mentioned that I did not appreciate the service I received, to which his response was simply, “We close at 8:00 PM.”
When I left shortly after 8:00 PM, the birthday party was still actively celebrating and several other guests remained in the dining room eating and drinking. Clearly, my presence was not the issue.
My presence clearly bothered the bartender Isaiah, despite the fact that numerous guests, including a birthday party were still being served well past closing time.
As a first-time guest who chose this restaurant based on proximity and online search results, I am extremely disappointed by both the service and the fact that this behavior appears to be acceptable. I have never experienced such treatment in a restaurant and will not be returning.