Olivia J.
Yelp
Bodhi, the renowned Thai restaurant in Federal Hill, has gained popularity among the locals and received positive reviews from many. However, my experience was not match this high standard.
Food:
I had a mix of highs and lows, with some dishes exceeding my expectations while others fell short. The appetizers stood out the most and left a lasting impression on me. The veggie spring rolls were exceptional - three crispy and hot rolls, perfectly seasoned and filled with just the right amount of filling. The curry puff, another vegetarian option, had a spicy curry filling that burst with flavor and was steaming hot when I bit into it. Pour the sauce inside the puff to add a touch of sweetness to every bite. The chive dumplings, are my absolute favorite - four pieces of crunchy and chewy dumplings, with a rich, savory flavor that lingered on my tastebuds. When dipped into the sauce, the umami flavor brought out the best in the dumplings, making them even more delectable. However, for my main course, the chicken drunken noodles, did not meet my expectations. It was too greasy, and the chicken was overcooked. The meal ended on a high note with the mango sticky rice, which was the perfect way to conclude the culinary experience.
Service:
Upon arriving at the restaurant, I faced some issues with the service. Despite having a reservation, I was not greeted by any of the servers who walked past me. Eventually, I had to flag down a server to inquire about my reservation. Once I was escorted to the private room, my server was friendly and offered me water while I waited for my party to arrive. Our server was helpful in assisting us with what to order (it took 30 minutes to decide.)
However, since the back room is isolated from the rest of the resturant, it was difficult to get the server's attention. This is something that the restaurant can improve upon. In the future, I would prefer to sit in the main dining area. Additionally, during my visit, I was accused of dining and dashing, which was quite embarrassing. A server ran after me and my friends as we were leaving, demanding I pay for my meal. After I explained I paid in cash and left it on the table she apologized and wished us a good evening. This killed my positive vibe.
Ambiance:
On a positive note: The ambiance is cozy, inviting, and the winter decor just adds a touch of warmth. It's the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a peaceful evening.
Overall:
I had a couple of bad experiences at this restaurant. The appetizers and desserts are good, but the drunken noodles are too oily. After eating here, I became sick the next day. Additionally, a server chased me down the street and accused me of not paying my bill. One bright spot: the dining areas are nice.
I believe Bodih can improve its service and communication with customers. For this reason, I will not be returning to this establishment anytime soon.