Leopold’s Kafe + Konditorei

The problem with the numeric summary in a review is that it must encompass all aspects of the dining experience. Were I to break it down, the way Zagat does, my numeric review of Leopod’s might be: food=7 decor=9 service=1.

I stopped in with my mother one afternoon just for coffee and dessert. I love the setting, the outdoor tables, the interior design. The latte was one of the best I’ve had for a long time, the desserts were wonderful. It’s the canonical European cafe experience.

Except that the service really sucks. Really. Ten minutes before your presence at table is acknowledged, fifteen for your order to be taken, twenty five for your coffee (and reason for being there) to arrive after you’ve placed the order... Your dessert order is lost for half an hour, then you’re told that it’s no longer available...

It wasn’t just us. We were there long enough to observe others being treated the same way.

It might be a good place for a casual business luncheon when you’re trying to get some serious talking done and are in no rush to head back to the office, and the presence of a waiter is mere annoyance, but otherwise I can’t recommend it.