I've always really enjoyed my experience at Mistral, and have made it a regular choice for business dining. But last night was an unmitigated disaster. Hectic and unorganized, the stage was set early when I was unable to get a cocktail at the bar, and made worse when twice during the three courses, I was served the wrong meal. Perhaps I should have taken it, though, as food was a surprising let-down: my salmon was overcooked and under seasoned, and I feel ill this morning.
The real issue, however, was the service. Our waiter was rude and abrupt, interrupting conversation and rolling his eyes at questions on the menu. I finished my glass of wine before my entree arrived, and he took the glass away without asking if I'd like another. Dessert was served without asking if we'd like coffee. But the most embarrassing aspect of the evening happened as we were collecting our coats at the front of the restaurant: our waiter chased after us, loudly calling out that we'd forgotten to pay. As everyone turned to stare, we tried to talk discreetly, but he kept his voice loud. It seems that we'd left the unsigned "guest copy" credit card slip on top in the bill folder and though the signed receipt was underneath, he hadn't noticed before causing a scene. He scarcely even apologized as we called it to his attention. Atrocious.
I pray that this was a fluke experience brought on by the stress of Restaurant Week, but I've already changed the location of my client dinner next week.
Pros: Usually a great scene, excellent food
Cons: Noisy, apparently spotty service
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