"I requested a spot at the counter bar since I was alone and heading to the theatre . No sooner was I seated than the bar man abruptly asked me what I wanted to drink no “welcome, how are you tonight” . He seemed a bit miffed when I asked to see the cocktail list, as though I should know instantly what I wanted. And, although a prix-fixe, pre-theatre menu is advertised online, only the regular a la carte menu was handed to me. So I had to ask for that, as well! As it turned out, I ordered an expensive a la carte main dish, since it appealed to me. During my meal, no one ever topped up my sparkling water the bottle stood in plain sight and the barman/waiter watched me refill my glass. And, when I’d finished my cocktail, no one asked if I’d like a glass of wine although I sat there looking at the page of wines by the glass . By then, although I did want wine, I was too fed up with the rudeness to order one. It was only after I asked for my bill that a waiter asked if I’d like dessert or coffee! Obviously, I didn’t. But I just smiled politely and said I had to go. No one thanked me for coming or wished me a pleasant evening. Yes, the place is packed being right by the Ritz Hotel is very beneficial . And the ambiance is suave and clubby. But the waitstaff is basically disaffected although they do act unctuously polite to regulars . I’ve actually been coming to Le Caprice for many years, but usually sit with friends at a table. Hmm— what a difference!"
