rev:text
| - On any given day, the breakfast dishes at Marigold range from phenomenal to un-freaking-believably-good.
On any given day, the service system at Marigold ranges from mildly inconvenient to mind-blowingly frustrating.
There are enough reviews here that sing the praises of Marigold's food. I wholeheartedly agree with them all - so instead I'm going to try and offer some suggestions that can help you navigate the conundrum that is Marigold's seating situation. As noted per other reviews, you stand in line to order at the counter - then wait in the little waiting area - then an employee leads you to a table. At least, that's how it's supposed to work.
On my most recent visit, however, people were grabbing tables while they were still in line. These folks probably didn't see the teeny tiny sign outside the restaurant that lays out the table etiquette - most likely due to the fact that the sign is indeed, teeny tiny. When this happens, Marigold employees have to decide whether to 1) ask these people to get up, which is awkward or 2) let them sit there, which screws over people waiting patiently after ordering at the counter.
I think Marigold could do a better job of communicating the seating policy -either by having a full-time host at the front of the restaurant or posting more signage. Probably both.
Until they change the policy though - I would not suggest dining at Marigold with a large group unless you arrive very early or late in the dining cycle. I would not suggest eating at Marigold if you want to sit and chat for an hour or two over food (you will feel awkward with people staring at you while waiting for your table).
What I will suggest is going to Marigold with a small group, 2-4 people, and following the seating etiquette. The employees will find you a spot - and if others are snagging tables before they're supposed to - give them the stink eye or say "screw it" and grab a table yourself.
The experience is less frustrating if you know what to expect - and the food at Marigold really is worth it.
|