Lu Y.
Yelp
My friends and I were so excited about a new bar with outdoor space in the city that served espresso martinis! However, this place leaves you wanting more. We went during the first week it was open which reading other reviews, it is consistent to say that they are figuring things out.
The vibes - there is no music, so it is oddly quiet and makes the space feel extra empty building lobby vibes.
Service - our server was so nice but service is incredibly slow, I think he said there is one bartender. One bartender to pull espresso shots and then make espresso martinis for the entire place? We were there for over 2 hours and could barely get 2 drinks.
Value - great happy hour and food prices!
Why I gave this place 1 star, a short story.
I filled out an online inquiry to reserve Fonte Bar to host a party for roughly 25 people to celebrate new jobs and promotions. This was over Memorial Day weekend so it might take time for them to get back to me, so I waited and didn't hear anything. I called midweek the following week and the host told me to email Max specifically. I emailed Max and he was largely unhelpful and punted me to RJ.
Usually places give me parameters on reserving spaces, set menu, capacity, AV options, etc. but I had to set all that myself which was confusing because I do not know what Fonte Bar can or cannot provide. So I gave RJ a description of the event and a list of questions, like is there a cake fee, should I pre-order food etc. This was June 2nd and I had to follow up on June 9th to get a response. I followed up and asked what the buyout fee would be, in which I never got a response back. On June 18th, I email again ask if we could confirm and set up a call since the event is on June 23rd. I get an auto reply that RJ no longer works at Fonte and to email the GM or Max (again). I email both of them and obviously did not hear back. I called the number that comes up in a google search and it goes to their accounting department. The nice person in accounting took my name and number and I just said if I don't hear back, I will be having my party elsewhere. I didn't hear back.
I am bummed my guests will not be able to enjoy the outdoor ambiance that Fonte has to offer. Our server had asked us to post on social about Fonte because they wanted to get the word out. My event would have been a great opportunity to do that, especially given that most of my guests work downtown. O well.