I have been in Seattle for 26 years and visited the restaurant about 5 times total - going back to the original location. I will not be back. As most people do, we look for experiences that exceed our expectation and when that happens, we reciprocate by returning often. Even though I seem to see some glowing reviews - I have been dissapointed every single time I have visited Wild Ginger. I guess I have kept hoping to be wrong but for the money, which can be substantial, I will not invest more on that wish.
As most know here in Seattle, there are so many restaurant choices that it doesn't make sense to just go to a particular place bacause it is hyped - it needs to actually deliver to earn it's place on the top spot list.
The only area that has not been dissapointing has been the wine service. Sometimes a bit more gushing than I have the attention span for, it has been pretty consistent.
To be specific here are the issues we have had:
1. Uncomfortable seating - lounge area particularly (seats were too low and reclining to be comfortable) Also too wide to allow 4 a side to fit comfortably and still converse without shouting.
2. Noise overall is a real issue.
3. Pushy and impatient service related to food item selection - the pricing and portion sizes are confusing and we felt pushed while making the decision. The result has been that we have over-ordered and hence over spent for what we expected. The food quality was just not that great to allow us to excuse the situation by saying "oh well we can have left-overs".
3. Inconsistent food quality - I have had hot and sour soup three different occasions and it was different every time. Same applies to my spouse and guests that have been with me.
4. Increasingly "young" staff at the front lines. I do not believe that the menu suggests "Arnies" level host and wait staff.
5. Restrooms were really a mess - just one of those distasteful things that influences the experience in a negative way.
So as not to ramble further....we regret not feeling good about supporting a local business but all of the issues above suggests a lack of attention at the management level. Top restuarants do not let even the restroom escape their attention. Good luck to WG and in the event that someone in management sees this and actually acts on it I hope it is helpful.
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