GrubGirl.

Market Bar on the Embarcadero, in the Ferry Building, is another place close to my work. I’ve gone there the past few times but ever since one particular General Manager left in May/June 2005, the service has gone downhill.

Well, the outdoor patio area never really had high-quality service during happy hour:

– My friend specifically asked if the bar could make a DIRTY martini. The waiter nodded furiously and returned with what? A regular martini.

– We’ve often had to wait and wait while our glasses are empty, before we’re able to flag down a waiter. I understand the patio area is busy during happy hour but…it’s summer in SF. It’s never THAT hot outside!

Still learning to deal with crowds…

Hotel Vitale
Downtown across from Market Bar & Boulevard
Rating: Buzzkiller

I work downtown near the Ferry Building. Where’s a grubgirl gotta go for good service? “Good” = attentive bartenders that get your orders right, and ask you if you’re ready for another (not too early, not way too late).

For now, it’s not Hotel Vitale’s bar, though the patio seating (with heat lamps) is what seems to draw the Melrose Place crowd, while the slightly older set (potential cougar alert!) mingles inside.