Last night was my fourth visit to Anisette Brasserie. Since past visits had been fairly good, we made a reservation to celebrate an anniversary. What a tremendous disappointment.
It seems since the last time we ate at Anisette, the management has adopted the 'hurry-up-and-eat' business model.
We placed our wine order and the waiter promptly returned to uncork and pour. Minutes later, he was back, interrupting an obvious toast. Rather than have the good sense to discreetly disappear, he stood there and stared at us. Feeling pressured, we ordered an appetizer. When asked what we wanted as a main course, we told the waiter that we hadn't yet decided. He informed us that we had to order the appetizer and main course all at once, saying something about the chef wanting it that way.
Not to bore you with the details, but I had to fend off three busboys who were in a rush to clear my salad plate before I had even finished. Our waiter kept returning to check on us, but we both felt he was anxious to get us out of there so that they could seat more guests. From the upstairs section, I had a clear view of the entryway, and only once did it appear there were people waiting to be seated, yet there were empty tables available upstairs where we were eating.
The waitstaff were simply doing what management tells them to do, so I don't blame them for doing their jobs and trying to flip tables quickly. I do find fault with any dining establishment in this category that finds it necessary to adopt a diner mentality and rush patrons through their meals.
Needless to say, we won't be returning to Anisette. There are too many other restaurants in the area that understand customers are willing to pay a little more to have a pleasant and unhurried dining experience. Anisette missed the mark on this one.
Pros: Decor, ambience
Cons: Service
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