1 /5 Saucy Traveler: I had a late reservation at Haywire on Christmas Eve and was really looking forward to the experience. We arrived a few minutes early, and the hostess suggested we enjoy a drink at one of their two bars while waiting. Since it was our first visit, we decided to check out the upstairs bar, which is smaller and noticeably warmer.
We sat at the bar and greeted the bartender, asking how his evening was going. His response was, “Well, it’s Christmas Eve and I’m here,” which immediately set an uncomfortable tone. Trying not to let that dampen the night, I asked for a fruity cocktail, preferably something with muddled fruit. Instead, I was served a sour cucumber martini instead. It felt dismissive, as though my request was too much trouble. Rather than continue engaging with someone who clearly didn’t want to be there, I gave the drink to my son.
When we were seated downstairs, the experience didn’t improve. Our waiter was not welcoming, no holiday greeting, no effort to ask if it was our first time dining there, and no recommendations or guidance through the menu. Once again, it felt as though our presence on Christmas Eve was an inconvenience rather than appreciated.
Unfortunately, the food itself wasn’t memorable enough to offset the lack of hospitality. Overall, the service left a lasting negative impression, and I won’t be returning or considering Haywire for future dining or special occasions.
