Cafe Zelda

05/01/2008 Posted by foodloverinnewport

My husband and I ordered the very expensive Fried Lobster. The dish had absolutely no flavor to it. I grew up in the South and we fry just about everything. I've never had a fried dish I did not like until I tried the Fried Lobster here. We also ordered the Escargot and Steak. The Steak was so average that I don't even know what to say about it. It filled me up but left me wanting more. I could of gone to Stop and Shop and Grilled a better steak in my back yard. The escargot was trite, lots of butter but no flavor. It took forever for the food to come and when it did the waitress had a huge grimace on her. Actually, our nickname for her that evening was Grimace. The way she acted you'd think that we were responsible for taking her first born child. Overall the vibe was lousy. You can usually tell a lot about a good food establishment by the mood and attitude of the waitresses. Finally, the topper to it all was the bill, I've had dinner at places in Manhattan for less that scored 24 or better on Zagat's. I was shocked that they had the nerve to charge what they did. In the end we went next door at their bar for a drink. I'll keep it simple, stay away from there.

Pros: the didn't bill us for one drink

Cons: bad food, expensive, bad service, bad bar

04/30/2008 Posted by foodreview1980

the food was really bad and the service worst. The waitress never smiled and acted like we were a problem for her. We still left her a nice tip and never thanked us despite opening the check in front of us. In addition, the food was so bad that i don't think anyone in our table of 8 finished their meal. We are all locals and eat out all the time and there are just many better places around.

Pros: none

Cons: many

04/30/2008 Posted by newportNYC

Terrible service Terrible food Filthy establishment Desperately tries so hard to be something it's not.

Cons: Everything

05/21/2006 Posted by gardinia

I am writing here because there is not a sendable address for Zelda's own email anywhere to be found. Te first couses, as well as the bar staples, wine, service, and dining room are great. However, in the last year, the entrees and desserts have consistenly left something to be desired. Memorably: The Chicken Fried lobster which cost a fortune was tough and completely devoid of flavor. In three consecutive visits (we're locals) - three different types of fish, all prepared the samw way on a raft of dehydrated (not intentionally I am sure) yams. Weird with the summer tomatoes sauce which surrounded them. The desserts were literally abyssmal and I hope there is consideration to involve a pastry chey, there or off site, before the summer arrives next week.

07/04/2005 Posted by macandmac

My wife and I once again love this restaurant. A few years ago it turned into and average experience. In the past year they have gotten a new chef and we love the food and the service has been great.

Pros: food, service

Cons: small

06/07/2005 Posted by krislevy

After the Cliff Walk, my husband and I stopped in the bar for a cup of chowder and some beer before more sight seeing. Best decision. Lovely atmosphere, lovely crowd all stopping in after work on a Friday before heading home. No attitidue, no pretention. We're only sorry we didn't head back for dinner. Though we're certain to be stopping here next time we go to Newport!

Pros: Friendly, Good beer, Good food

Cons: Easily to get crowded

12/12/2002 Posted by Barbarajssjk

We spend our summers in Newport so we have dined at most of the Newport restaurants. Cafe Zelda by far is our favorite. A 10 rating all the way!

12/12/2002 Posted by batsav

terrible food, arrogant owners and super slow service, dirty atmosphere

Pros: none

Cons: no parking, smelled of old beer, bad food