Gary Danko – San Francisco – horrendous service

This was my fourth time visiting Gary Danko, this time with friends for a small gathering. The experience fell short of expectations, especially when it came to service.

The biggest disappointment was an interaction with a server. I asked whether the eggs benedict appetizer listed on the online menu would ever be available again. She responded condescendingly, saying, “We don’t serve brunch here. You must have us mistaken for another restaurant. We've never served eggs benedict.” I had printed the menu directly from the Gary Danko website that morning. Despite my entire family seeing it, she kept denying it ever existed and saying you're mistaken. Only after my father confirmed he had seen it too did she offer to check. I later realized I had clicked on a 2024 Gary Danko menu which was the first link when searching "gary danko menu", but her dismissive response to a genuine question was unnecessary. Her tone also became noticeably more respectful when speaking to my father.

During the second course, my father’s corn soup was forgotten. He knew this because they didn't give him a spoon, and gave him a knife/fork for his 3rd course. When he asked about it, the same server replied, “It’s on its way now. It’s just not done yet,” without offering an apology.

Other aspects added to the disappointment. I called weeks in advance but never received a callback after leaving a voicemail. Their answering machine is automated and won't let you speak to a person. I tried calling over 3 times and couldn't speak to someone. During dinner, no one introduced themselves by name or offered to explain the tasting menu or dishes. The service felt impersonal compared with my previous visit, when our server was warm, attentive, and genuinely made the evening special. I was also certain I ordered a soufflé for a friend but they received crème brûlée instead. I chose not to raise the issue because I was already uncomfortable with the earlier interaction.

The food was okay but for $800, the service was horrendous. The last time I went over 2 years ago, Gary Danko still had their Michelin Star. I can see why they lost it.