Timothy V.
Yelp
Occasion: Happy Hour
Date: Valentine's Day, 2/14/2025
I planned a Valentine's pre-dinner stop at Bartini for Happy Hour before dinner at Fondue. I previewed both websites for updates and announcements, but nothing was posted so I concluded that it was business as usual.
AMBIANCE 4/5: The space was intimate, trimmed in modern decor. Big picture windows brought in a ton of natural light (+) but were blinding at one point from the reflection from the sun onto cars. Suggestion: drapes (sheer, at least), blinds, or a darkening alternative to give the feeling of "happy hour" cocktail-lounge.
SERVICE 2/5: Staff (the bartender) quickly acknowledged our arrival in a friendly manner and answered our question about seating in a warm, sincere way. We found a premier spot at the window and reviewed the libations menu. After waiting 7 minutes, the server finally arrived to take our order. As my guest and I were having a side conversation about our drink choice, my guest asked the server about Vodka choices, to which he could not answer and confessed that he was a new staff/waiter. We were about to place our order, mentioning the happy hour options, and he stated, "we're not offering Happy Hour, yeah, I just found out". Talk about BIG disappointment. SUGGESTION: When making sudden changes about operations, service, special seatings, holidays, etc., offer alternatives and empower your employees to create problem resolutions that will elevate your service ("Due to __________, we are offering the regular menu this evening and will resume Happy Hour on ______. However, may I offer ________ (first round, 1 drink per person, the happy hour price; BOGO or a discount on any food item(s), etc). When the server returned with our beverages, I immediately handed him my credit card and instructed him to close my tab. We quickly finished our beverages and departed.
FOOD 0/5: We did not order food.
OVERALL: While I appreciate the friendly demeanor of the bartender and server on duty, my overall experience was disappointing, and I cannot recommend your establishment to others. Despite your extensive martini offerings and other appealing aspects, the service fell short of expectations