08/09/08

Hostess ruins the evening

by justonegreatmeal

Maybe it's because we were there in high season. But I doubt it: The restaurant was only about two-thirds full. We arrived ten minutes prior to our reserved time. The hostess asked us to wait in the bar, which was fine. She told us that she would get us as soon as the table was ready. FORTY MINUTES later, we were still in the bar. I went back to the hostess, who didn't even remember that she had sent us to the bar. She looked at me nonplussed (i.e. confused). I reminded her that we had checked in 40 minutes ago. Finally, two neurons connected and she mumbled, "Okay, your table is ready".

She then had either the audacity, the stupidity or the arrogance to seat us at the WORST table in the restaurant, which again was only about two-thirds full. No apology, no comp'd drinks or appetizer. NADA.

The food was average. The wine list was very good. The service was good (a manager in a suit disciplined our waiter literally right in front of us).

There are literally dozens of good restaurants in this little beach town. It was the only restaurant we visited during our five night stay that treated us with arrogance. No repeat business from us at Clae's, to be sure.

• Pros: Fine ocean view
• Cons: Hostess should be fired

02/22/08

The view alone cannot make up for their average food and bad service

by Topenga

I went there three times. The first time I was not impressed with the service. The second time, I went there for dinner as well (gave them a second chance because of the view), and again, the service was disappointing. The minute I told the waiter that I only drank water, his mood and attitude changed - he was slow and unfriendly. The food was average, bordering on tastless. Somehow my husband talked me into going there for brunch - I must be a glutton for punishment, but even I have my limits. It was overcrowded, which overwhelmed the staff. It took forever to get the food and when it came it was cold and not at all that tasty.

What is going on with all these restaurants that have the audacity to charge high prices, but don't bother to justify it with good food and decent service? I say, don't tolerate bad service anymore!

• Pros: view
• Cons: everything else (food, service)

01/01/08

Clae's - Fresh food, attentive service.

by rpacheco

Just returned from Claes and was leery because of some of the reviews here. But, it was open on New Year's so we gave it a shot.

Outstanding. All of the food was fresh and original. The salads were works of art. All of the fish entrees were fresh and savory.

The desserts included white chocolate mousse with banana pudding - wonderful.

For the appetizers, go with the fish crudo (sashimi) which is a collection of chef's choice. Delectable.

A bit pricey, but the view was magnificent and you pay for ambience.

The service was very attentive and the maitre d' even came to our table to make sure all was satisfactory.

Definitely recommended.

• Pros: Freshness and creativity of the meals
• Cons: A little pricey, but not much.