Problem: We decided to try this place out based on the reviews of a couple local Elites. Fantastic experiences both nights we went. First off, the decor is Victorian-decadent and feels classy, modern and welcoming. There are a variety of places to sit -- tables, booths, nooks and crannies -- and you can expect a full house if you're here alongside the after-work crowd. There's a large variety of ales on tap, so don't be afraid to ask the barkeeps for suggestions. Naturally, there's a fine selection of single malts available as well. Prices are very reasonable, especially for being a skip off of Princes Street. If you need something a little more substantial than a few good ales to fill your belly, Guildford Arms also offers gourmet pub grub, from classic fish and chips to your obligatory haggis, neeps and tatties. I tried the Angus steak pie. It came out piping hot and a was a savory little boat full of meat and gravy. Comfort food for grey, cold evening, for sure. There's also a tiny dining area upstairs that overlooks the rest of the pub. Up there, they have an expanded menu featuring a number a entrees. I suppose I'd call it the American section, as that's exactly who the area was full of when we were there (ourselves included).
How would this review be described?
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A: positive

Problem: I came here with a group of friends on my bachelor party weekend and was not disappointed. It is probably the most unique restaurant concept I have ever seen - a bold experiment in hospitality, wherein the servers are hired based on their natural capacity to be surly and obnoxious and say absolutely whatever they feel like to their patrons. Here is a slice of the conversation that occurred while I was ordering: Me: "I will have...hmmm....just give me one sec" Her: "Hurry the f%$k up. I need to take other orders." Me: "OK, sheesh, how's this salad?" Her: "Not bad, if you're a p&ssy. I'll put you down for a steak." Me: "Um, thanks but I don't want the steak. I want the salad." Her: (rolls eyes, goes to the next person) "And what the f@#k do YOU want?" I'm not sure how you would like being involved in the above ordering process, but I have to say, I found it refreshing. Even though I'm a huge fan of great service at restaurants, in life you so rarely encounter someone who is speaking their mind with such utter abandon, that experiencing it is a true novelty. Do not come here with someone who is easily offended or insecure. But if you can appreciate being ragged on the whole time you eat and maybe dish it right back to them too, you will have a huge amount of laughs, and memories, on the other side.
How would this review be described?
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A: positive

Problem: First time. Came to watch a game on big screen. Staff worked hard to accommodate us. Lots of screens had to show lots of games of different kinds. Our waitress was very good: attentive, helpful, kept track of our needs and the place was busy. Happy hour wine was terrible but for $2.75 I didn't expect much. Later I discovered that if you pay for it you can get good wine. I had fish and chips the fries were great and the fish ok. My wife got fish tacos which was really a fish wrap. It was ok but not memorable. The chips and salsa were not great. Friends had burgers which they enjoyed. onion rings were good. We shared a couple of desserts which were good but by then I was full. In the last few weeks we have tried different places to watch college football. This was the best.
How would this review be described?
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A: positive

Problem: The vegetable subgum is great. I love that they aren't overly concerned with American palettes not enjoying certain Chinese vegetables and going for authenticity instead. The noodles are tasty. The gyoza are really great. I even like the eggrolls there, and normally I hate eggrolls. They also have a variety of southeast Asian dishes; that just confuses me. It's really reasonably priced. I almost always get noodle soup for $7 and get two hearty meals out of it. The atmosphere is the atmosphere of most good Chinese restaurants...total shit, but that isn't why you go here. Also, don't expect amazing service. Most of the servers are kind of awkward and seem to not really know what they're supposed to be doing. Best Chinese in Madison hands down.
How would this review be described?
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A:
positive