Wine Bars in Newark

“We decided to go to dinner at Firebirds. I had been once and was not impressed; however my husband had never been there. I have to say the food was good. Cooked exactly the way we wanted. The only draw back we had is the portions of food that you receive for the price that you pay. We felt like we were robbed. We don’t over eat so when I say we had small portions, we really had small portions. The dessert was even small portions for the price that you’re required to pay. The five very thin layers of lemon cake were good but the slice was very thin for $10.25. Out bill was $76.30 for two and I would have no problem if we had an appetizer and alcoholic drinks but there was none of that because we don’t drink. We each had a soda because the lemonade was too tart. The server was very pleasant and on time with everything. We tipped her well as we should have. Not sure I can return there. A little more light would be appreciated if I did return.“

“I had been wanting to try Cafe Gelato after hearing so many positive things, so we decided to go during Restaurant Week. I chose the Restaurant Week menu, while my husband ordered from the dinner specials. He was offered a soup or salad with his entrée, which we later realized came at an additional cost—something that wasn’t clearly explained upfront. He still enjoyed his meal overall.

The complimentary bread was delicious, but I found my meal to be somewhat underwhelming. The lobster chowder was quite bland, and I was expecting it to include noticeable pieces of lobster. The bacon sprinkled on top added some much-needed flavor.

The potato ravioli was a standout and very enjoyable. My main entrée—ricotta and lobster wrapped in homemade pasta—was decent, though again, the bacon was the highlight of the dish.

The menu gave the impression that dessert was included in the fixed price, and even our waitress acknowledged that the wording was misleading.

That said, the service was attentive, and the restaurant itself is beautiful. I’m glad I finally tried it, but it didn’t quite live up to my expectations.“