3 /5 Amy Peller: I have enjoyed the many Patina Brand restaurants I have visited in LA, OC, and NY. As a result I was looking forward to dining at Tangata when we visited the Bowers Museum. I tried to make a reservation, but was unable to get a good time, so we decided to walk in. The Maitre D said it would be 15 minutes for a table, so we wander around the gift shop while we wait. Not an unreasonable wait because they were busy, even though there were lots of empty tables. We were seated approximately 20 minutes later.
The restaurant is lovely. All tables have flowers. The lights are all designed like ribbons. There is a view of the open kitchen. We all ordered sandwiches, which should have been quick. I mean they didnt have to go out to catch the tuna fish. We waited longer for the food than we did for our table, over half an hour. I realize the restaurant was busy, but it was a long wait, especially since we were hungry. At one point we were all staring longingly at the kitchen, watching for a glimpse of our food, and the Maitre D passed by and said with a smile, "Just a few more minutes" Finally the food arrived. It was good, dont get me wrong, but was it worth $16? No, I dont think so. I think it was overpriced for what we got.
A couple other things bothered me. They add on a 3% "administrative charge to the bill to cover the cost of doing business, and is not intended to be a tip, gratuity, or service charge for the benefit of employees. No portion of this admin charge is distributed to employees. What the hell? Shouldnt the cost of the food you order be enough to cover the cost of doing business? Why is there an additional fee? Also, I paid with a gift card. They would not allow me to tip using my gift card. Just about every restaurant allows you to leave the tip on the gift card. My final issue was when I looked under the table when I got up to leave. The floor was dirty, with food on the ground. It was not my mess, and I didnt see it when I sat down.
I expected more at this restaurant. Patina Restaurants are all high quality, and while they are not inexpensive, I have never felt that I wasnt getting a good value for my money. Today, at Tangata, I cannot say that. I was disappointed in the restaurant, the service, and the cleanliness. I realize that it is the only game in town, the only restaurant in the museum, but next time, I will eat elsewhere before or after I visit the museum.
