Tabla Mediterranean Bistro

gk2829 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

Lackluster service – My husband and I enjoyed our food at Tabla, however; the service was slow and the waitress dismissive and insulting. She spent a good deal of her time during our meal paying attention to the table next to us. Evidently she knew many of the men eating there. She spoke loudly about a particular wealthly customer who repeatedly has paid unwelcome attention to her. She did not refill our water glasses once during our meal, coming over to help us only when requested. When we ordered dessert, it came after a h... read more

portlandfoodfan 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

Great food. Low cost. Be patient. – I had imported squid-ink with scallops for $16 bucks. I would not recommend the half orders -- more like 1/4 orders. Half orders are not half price. The house wine is a $10 glass of pinot noir. My only con: Once my girlfriend and I were seated we waited nearly 15 minutes to be recognized by our waiter -- which for a business with less than 20 tables -- nearly half of them empty at the time -- seemed a bit unusual. 

kweiler03 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

It's All About the Kitchen Bar – If you can, get a seat at the bar, it's the best seat in the house. It overlooks the immaculately clean kitchen where you can watch the chefs in all their glory cooking up some of the best food I've had in a long time. The food is reasonably priced for two as you can split a 3 course dinner and add another appetizer for and not spend all the money in your wallet or purse. It's a fun atmosphere with chefs who are personable and awesome at what they do. 

sjennings23 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

keep it up – went to Tabla the other night and experienced a fine menu with finessed service. After walking around the neighborhood we felt that in comparison to the other establishments in the area that Tabla seemed quite appetizing. All in all, We will return to sample some more of the cuisine. 

williamroy 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

Great food & value, frustrating service – We live only a few blocks away, but had always thought of Tabla as an expensive, fancy-pants kind of place. We were wrong. The kitchen here is brilliant, and the value is exceptional. Recently we paid $25-$38 an entree at Olea, and the food wasnt really that special. Tabla blows Olea away. We got one $24 three-course prix fixe dinner and a single regular entreeplus a couple glasses of wineand were completely satisfied for a grand total of $59. This is probably the best restaurant we'... read more

eedelee 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

Best spot in Portland – Tabla is one of my absolute favorite places to eat in Portland. I've been numerous times and had a great experience each time. The food is delicious and interesting, the prices are amazing for what you get, and the waiters are always friendly and very helpful! If you haven't tried Tabla, get there as quickly as possible!! 

foodie1974 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

Great Food, Bummer Service – One of my favorite things to do is to try to Portland eateries. I would much rather spend my money on local creative fair than at any chain place. It was a real bummer to have such great food and such poor service. Our party of 5 waited 20 minutes before our drink order was taken and 45 minutes for a small bowl of delicious olives. We wanted dessert but after 2 frustrating hours of waiting on food and drink, we decided to stop by the gas station for a candy bar. When asked, our server offered no ... read more

boxtrot 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

So hit or miss – I swear I am the biggest TABLA fan, however, whenever I open my big mouth and bring tons of folks there, something happens and things fall through the cracks. When I'm there with 1-2 people, the staff handle it fine. When I'm there with 4 or more, it seems overwhelming for the server. Best bet is to sit at the bar, order as many tapas as possible (they are all delicious) and enjoy the company of the bartender. If bartender is not friendly and sociable, go to the next place. The attitudes of the workers at Ta... read more

keli60 

on Citysearch

19 years ago

Favorite Spot! – This is by far our favorite restaurant - especially since they've added the $20 deal. The service is exceptional and we can't say enough about the food. While the portions may appear small, it's easily made up for in flavor. We've found that when the food is really good, you're much more quickly satisfied. The staff is very knowledgeable, perfectly pairing wines (wine flight) with each course. This is one of the few places we can take friends to and not have to worry about the evening being a "miss" - it's a... read more