The Linkery
Whatever could go wrong, went absolutely horribly wrong. The Linkery’s entryway is full of their positive reviews and various awards they have received. This review will not be among them.
Somehow I knew that this night wasn’t going to be entirely enjoyable. Before heading to G’s house I had to make a pit-stop at the local ATM. I pull up to the machine, slip my card in, and press the “English” button. Then I wait, nothing happens. Hit “Cancel” nothing. “Spanish”, nada. The machine was completely locked up, thank you Diebold (and these idiots run our election?)!! After waiting for the system to timeout, the machine finally ejects my card. Onward to dinner…
Ambience
The first impression upon arriving at The Linkery; crowded and very very loud. We were seated in about 15 minutes which was a relief from the initial 30 minutes quoted. We took our seats in the main dining area. The room was so loud you could barely hear the person sitting directly across from you, let alone anyone else at our table. After trying to communicate via sign language and lip reading for 20 minutes, our server came over to take our order.
Location
3382 30th Street, right in the middle of town. You can’t get a much better location than that. Street parking can get a bit tight though.
Beer
They have a fantastic selection of local & out of town beers, along with a decent wine selection. Casks seem to always be available as well.
Gretty enjoyed a Mango Pale Ale from Virgin Island Brewing which she loved. Jorge, John & I all ordered Stone Oaked Arrogant Bastard on Cask, what a treat. Seriously, one of the best beers available.
Food
I was looking forward to trying their Portobello Tacos, however they ran our of Portobello. Normally this wouldn’t be a big issue but 70% of their vegetarian menu is made up of Portobello, how do you run out of a primary ingredient? Everyone had their order placed and was ready for a couple of drinks.
I decided to try the ‘Mexico City Lasagna’. Lasagna isn’t exactly what I would call this, it was more of an enchilada. Nohelia also ordered the ‘lasagna’, we both though it was very mediocre. Jorge & Gretchen tried the ‘Sausage Tacos’ which they raved about, so there are some good options on the menu.
Service
Everything took at least 20-30 minutes to happen. With the automatic 18% gratuity they charge, there’s no reason for them to rush.
Our drinks were delivered to the table and the ladies were given their wine/beer. With three full glasses of Arrogant Bastard on his tray the entire thing tipped to the side; spilling all over our table, the floor and my lap. My shirt, jacket, jeans and shoes were all covered in dark, delicious, beer. Luckily I was able to get almost everything cleaned before stains set, a couple of residual spots on my shoes remain. G’s purse & Nohelia’s jacket were also hit with some spray. Fun!
Overall
Because of the beer incident my meal was supposed to be comped, however the least expensive item was removed. It wasn’t a huge difference in price but it was annoying. We also had their automatic 18% gratuity added to the bill despite all these issues. Gratuity for a lap full of booze?? Having this included with the bill still shocks me.
Based on this experience I can’t recommend The Linkery to anyone.
and how!
i thought this review would be more scathing…
That’s why I waited a couple of days to write it.
isnt the new toronado supposed to be right next to this place
i had a so-so experience there as well. the food was mediocre and the staff was annoying. g’s pork was mostly raw and the chef was put out he wanted it cooked more. we have not been back.
I to had a negative experience at this place. For whatever reason, the staff give off this too cool vibe where you should be grateful for being allowed to eat or drink at their establishment. I too think it has to do with the built in gratuity. When trying to talk to the owner about his beer selection, he gives off this pompous attitude like he is the center of all things beer in San Diego. Will not be going back and agree with this negative review.