Takashi (1952 N. Damen Ave.)
You go to Takashi for Takashi; his food is amazing, but you don’t go for the service.
We went when it first opened and then again just recently, hoping to give it a second chance. Recently, we were seated over an hour after our reservation. Which, was fine because it’s a small place and we understand, but don’t offer to buy us a round of drinks and then forget half of them. Also, not to be nit picky, but if you’re going to serve bread, do so earlier in the meal - not after the entrees have been served and then apologize for it. That just makes it awkward.
Again the food is exceptional, but I’m now having to wonder if why their struggling (per Time Out magazine’s article) isn’t the price of the food, but instead the Service…because neighboring restaurants are packed most days of the week.
