Abacus

08/05/09

unrealized potential

by cmk1126 at Citysearch

Here's the problem with Abacus: they cut too many corners. Sorbet isn't a course, but they count it as one. So I was given 8 courses rather than the 9 promised on the menu. And the single cheese plate was not adequate for a table of 6. Also, last visit I got a nickel-sized portion of foie gras (most other tasting menus give at least 4 times that much). The service isn't particularly friendly or prompt. The wine recommended wasn't particularly good. The food was pretty much OK, with occasional flashes of inspiration. The prices are out of line with the quality of food. Etc. There are much better places in the price range, and I intend to visit them instead.

• Pros: occasionally very nice food
• Cons: doesn't provide value

01/17/08

Disappointed........

by dobie88 at Citysearch

I thought about it for a week, but after a second try at Abacus, I have to share my disappointing experience. Scenario: party of 8, friendly greeting by manager to birthday girl, great wine service by our waiter. Then the 30 minute wait till our orders were taken. The 40 minutes till our "small plates" came out. And they were small. How about 1 ravioli and 1 small link of meat for $16-18? Then the 50 minute wait till our "big plate". Overcooked, small portion, and salty sauce masked the natural flavor of the sea bass. I've never had sea bass so well done.

I guess being a foodie, I expected a returned trip to Abacus to be memorable and food worthy of a 5 start title. I think management should focus on the timing and quality of their dishes more.

• Pros: Nice ambience, valet only
• Cons: Long wait for meal, salty dishes

12/28/05

Disappointing

by mergirl000 at Citysearch

Snooty service and loud music spoils an otherwise pleasant ambience with respectable decor. Food was average. You get the sense of a place trying a bit too hard and missing the mark. Not the enjoyable dining experience that one should be receiving for price paid.

12/17/05

Over Hype

by detector at Citysearch

Five Star...don't think so. Food was good, but certainly not worth the price. When one spends $75 per person, one should walk out thinking it was a memorable experience. That was not our view at all.

Scallops...three for $35? Calamari...? Have had better at many other restaurants. Also everything was much too salty.

If you are looking for an intimate eating experience this is NOT the place for you. The noise level was overpowering, as was the incessant, repetitive pounding of the music.

Sorry, had really looked forward to this evening. Will not go back for sure...