| About: | Gadsby's Tavern has been offering fine dining since 1770. Enjoy lunch and dinner in one of the elegant Colonial dining rooms. The one-of-a-kind Gadsby's Tavern experience awaits you. |
| Hours: | Mon-Sat 11:30am-3pm and 5:30-10pm; Sun 11am-3pm and 5:30-10pm |
| Categories: | All Bars, Pubs, & Clubs, Bars & Pubs, Restaurants, American Restaurants, Middle Eastern |
| Parking: | Street Parking |
| Payment: | MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express |
| Amenities: | Banquet/Private Rooms, Bar Dining, Beer, Fireplace, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine |
| Cuisine: | American, Middle Eastern & North African |
| Ambiance: | Elegant |
| Feature: | Bar, Brunch, Dancing, Entertainment, Happy Hour, Outdoor Seating, Private Rooms, Take Out |
| Reservations Policy: | Suggested |
| Smoking: | Non-Smoking Restaurant |
| Dress Code: | Smart Casual |
| Price: | $10 - $20 |
| Other Contact Info: | Email: gadsbys@verizon.net |
This establishment,from my experience, appears to not value its customers and to treat them accordingly. There was no greeter; the line of people waiting to be seated was ignored for about 20 minutes. The operation of this establishment appears to be defined by individual tasks that omit customer service. Food was unceremoniously delivered to the table; the lack of style may be forgiven -- but food that should be hot/warm served cold is inexcusabe -- especially when the server admonished the guest to "be careful of the hot plate." The plate was not even warm. The food was far less than adequate, especially when compared with similar entrees served at other restaurants. After two attempts to receive even a minimally warm entree I gave up. Two identical desserts were ordered; they were delivered to the table and did not appear identical. The beverage (non alcoholic) was not included in the fixed price menu; a generous gratuity was, however, automatically calculated by Gadsby's Tavern, Alexandria, VA, in the total bill presented. It appears prudent to read READ AND CHECK YOUR BILL. No one said "thank you" or "goodbye." This establishment is not disabled accessible. A reasonable person may conclude that such establishments may rely more on tourist business than on a clientele of happy diners who return because of the quality of the food and service. There are options in the area for those who want the ambience of a historic building and a classic American menu; we will be exploring those options.
If you've ever eaten in one of the original inns at Colonial Williamsburg, you'll know what to expect at Gadsby's Tavern - a genuine 18th century tavern, with servers in period dress and period-style dishes. The food is excellent, though it may be a bit pricey by some standards ($22 - $30 per entree). Ordering the peanut soup is a must. Call ahead and try to go on a night when John Douglas Hall is performing. He's an 18th century minstrel who comes by each table, playing his lute guitar and discussing the current events (of the late 1700s or so). If you come on a ball night (check the events calendar on the museum website), you'll get to see all the couples walking by in 18th century gentry clothing, going to the dance upstairs. If you want to experience a night out on the town the way the Founding Fathers would have, this is the place.
The food here was excellent. We went for Sunday brunch and we were amazed at how fresh the fruit was. It seems they really use high quality ingredients. It was not at all crowded which was surprising given the reasonable prices and good food. The service was friendly and efficient. We would definitely go back. My only complaint is that is was rather cold in the restaurant.