I have never been so dissapointed with a restaurant experience than I have with a recent visit to Bliss. . We ordered a bottle of wine, an Alsatian Pinot Blanc for aprox. $35, one of the more affordable on an overpriced list. \r
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When we received the wine it became very clear that the wine was a late harvest Pinot Blanc, not the dry white we were expecting to go with the food at bliss. When we asked for a different bottle that was not a sticky dessert wine we were met with an uncomfortable 'ok'. When a manger aproached with a bottle of Rose that we requested instead she proceeded to tell us that she is happy to pour our new wine but that we would be billed for the original bottle since their was nothing wrong with it! When I explained that they were serving the wrong vintage that appears on the wine list and that it is a dessert wine that was not stated on the list we were met with a policy of 'sorry charlie'. \r
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Enter the Chef/owner Francesco Martorella who aproached our table in an intimidating manner with arms raised and voice loud accusing us, and I quote, of ""trying to break his b*lls"" ""Everyone knows that all Alsace Pinot Blancs are late harvest"". We were told to ""go f*@k ourselves"" in front of an entire restaurant. we were charged for our food (not the wine) and we promptly left as dazed as boxer who was just knocked out of a prize fight in the first round! We were speechless at the arrogance, lack of knowledge and complete disregard for 'the customer is always right"". \r
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Never in my life have I met a bigger bafoon. While I felt embarassed at the time it is Mr. Martorella that should be ashamed. Not only will I never go back, I will tell as many foodies, writers, travellers, businesses in the area and anyone who will listen about my experience. Smart stuff for Mr. Martorella over a bottle of $35 wine. But I have the feeling this is more about his ego.
Pros: lovely restaurant setting
Cons: knucklhead chef/owner, terrible customer service
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