Timothy R.
Yelp
In addition to their fine establishment in West Salem (and one in Eugene, which I haven't been to), Xicha has added Xicha Brewing North in the 45th Parallel building (in the space formerly occupied by Vagabond Brewing).
When I went in on grand opening day, I had to order both food and drinks at the main station, not at the bar. I stood for a while at the bar looking over the beverage options and even asked the bartender what he was making. None of the bartenders bothered to tell me I had to order at the other station. And they were either unfriendly or ignored me completely. So, if I can't order at the bar, how do I get a sample of their beers prior to buying? Every brewery or taphouse offers that option. I don't buy any beer at breweries that I've never tried, and I don't intend to start now. I'm not a big beer drinker anyway, so I was happy to see wine, cider, and hard liquor choices. I opted for the Sauvignon Blanc, which was very good, but pricey.
Menu options: limited but very good: looks like the same food fare as the West location if I recall. They do have varied specials, though. As far as regular menu items, I'm particularly fond of the Smoked Trout Taquitos. I opted for the Barbacoa (Beef) Nachos as well. The beef quality was excellent, and the nachos were a nice blend of flavors. Plus, Xicha delivers an excellent presentation on both food and drinks.
Since it was grand opening day, and they were super busy, I wanted to give them a little leeway on my rating. But in addition to the bartenders who ignored me and the odd layout, I got the wrong wine initially, which they promptly corrected. Then when I tried to order a different beverage option from the online menu via the Q-reader, I couldn't find the drink option my friend wanted. So, we waited in line (no tableside service here; they just deliver orders).
When I got up to the register, I asked to have the drinks put on my tab. They had to ring me up a separate ticket from my table number, and I was told I'd have to pay at the table via my app for my initial order. What? Why can't I just pay for everything all at once? So, I get back to my table, and try to figure out the app but can't find an option to pay. We flagged down a server and asked if he could just bring out a portable paying device because I couldn't figure out the app and didn't want to wait in line again. He did, but I never got to see how much I actually paid, nor did I get a chance to tip (I did on the other transaction), nor did I get a receipt. (I did leave a cash tip later).
To be honest, I've never been fond of using those dining apps. When I go out to eat, I don't want to utilize any tech. Just give me a menu and a good waiter or waitress and I'm a happy camper.
They get style points for live music (but suspect this won't be a regular occurrence), and the food is fantastic. But they have to work out some kinks to equal the Westside location. I'm looking forward to see how this place blossoms, though. I've always liked this location and am happy to see it utilized once again. And I will return to give them another chance or two, so I can hopefully bump up their rating then.