The New Woodshed Reviews

[wadden]

Did the new Woodshed open last night as advertised? Still no website. Appreciate any feedback from diners over the next several days. Thanks.

[Lakegeezer]

Went to opening night at the New Woodshed (its official name). It was full! There were some kitchen glitches that caused long delays, but it was nice being back and the new design is perfect. Great looking bar too. Their web site won't be up for a week or so, says the owner.

[Shore Driver]

More please!

[VitaBene]

It did open and was busy. Lyn Seeley was there greeting guests!

I just had a quick glass of wine, I just happened to be riding by on my motorcycle and said hmmmm...

[wifi]

Hmmmm, a fire alarm activation.... what a welcome to the opening



Cause: Smoke from the fireplace

Carry on !

[Greene's Basin Girl]

We had a delightful dinner at the Woodshed this evening. The dining room is nice and spacious. The service was very good. It took a while to receive our cocktails, but after that the dinner service ran smoothly. Those in our dinner party enjoyed appetizer's, prime rib, marinated chicken, and salad. I would recommend it. In fact I am going again Wednesday night with some friends.

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by Greene's Basin Girl

We had a delightful dinner at the Woodshed this evening. The dining room is nice and spacious. The service was very good. It took a while to receive our cocktails, but after that the dinner service ran smoothly. Those in our dinner party enjoyed appetizer's, prime rib, marinated chicken, and salad. I would recommend it. In fact I am going again Wednesday night with some friends.

Does anyone have pictures? Will they be serving lunch? GBG do you like the new Woodshed as much as the old Woodshed from an atmosphere perspective?

[CateP]

Anyone interested in a Winni Forum get together at the New Woodshed? Nothing official, just a group of us who haven't connected in a while? Week night is best.

[ericnh]

We tried to go on Saturday night but it was too busy, so we were offered seating in the bar and we ordered from the bar menu. The food was very good and the drinks are very good, staff was trained and very capable of making nice drinks. The restaurant definitely retained some of the character of the original. They even have a replica model of the original in the waiting area so you can see with the old restaurant look like if you had been there before. They still serve bread in the planters pot and the inside of the restaurant has the wood exposed beams and the big high ceilings, you can get reservations a few weeks out and I think it'll be well worth it.

[neckdweller]

Tried to call them a few times last night between 5 and 9 to make a reservation for next weekend but no one picked up. According to their Facebook page they were open - a bit strange/disappointing not to get anyone to answer.

[Acrossamerica]

Originally Posted by neckdweller

Tried to call them a few times last night between 5 and 9 to make a reservation for next weekend but no one picked up. According to their Facebook page they were open - a bit strange/disappointing not to get anyone to answer.

Probably the worst time to try and make reservations at any restaurant in the country as it is their prime customer on the premises time and restaurants rarely hire a person just to handle reservations. If you reach someone at a restaurant at that time for reservations that means they are not very busy.

Try a hour or two before they open for trade, that is the best time.

[AMekler]

i left a message on Monday(they are closed Monday and Tuesday) and got a call back to make reservations.
Alan

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by AMekler

i left a message on Monday(they are closed Monday and Tuesday) and got a call back to make reservations.
Alan

Good for you. Who is going to the new Woodshed this weekend? I think it may be too busy. The first time I get there I plan to hoist one in honor of Mr Haynes! Thank you sir. I hope you make a ton of money on your venture.

[wadden]

We are going tonight with our neighbors - really looking forward to it. Tried to get in Sat and Sun but booked.

[upthesaukee]

Good friends went last weekend. Food was great, service / cooking was very slow. 3.5 hours for dinner. They said they will go back but not until they have better reports on the service. It did appear that they were slightly understaffed for the amount of business.

I live here... I am always Upthesaukee.

[Billy Bob]

Originally Posted by upthesaukee

Good friends went last weekend. Food was great, service / cooking was very slow. 3.5 hours for dinner. They said they will go back but not until they have better reports on the service. It did appear that they were slightly understaffed for the amount of business.

I live here... I am always Upthesaukee.

With all the work that went into constructing this fabulous building it is very disappointing to hear this "slow service " report twice !
They fully understood the interest in the venue and should know that they will be slammed from opening day until July . Problem is they will get the first timers who won't go back . The old cant make a first impression twice thing . they have a very short window to get this fixed

[Acrossamerica]

In an area of the country where fine dining is defined by a larger paper napkin and slightly higher grade of stainless flatware, hiring staff with the experience needed for a fast paced top of the line restaurant is difficult at best and near impossible for a first day out of the gate situation. 99% of potential wait staff in rural areas have never dined in a first class restaurant so they have no idea of what type of service it requires. And training, try as they might, most owners are about a quart short of a full gallon when it comes to this task.

Give them a few weeks to figure it out. By then the "must be among the very first so I can impress my friends" crowd will have drifted away and the regulars will begin to set up.

Besides what is wrong with a 3.5 hour dinner. You want fast go to Mickies D's.

[Greene's Basin Girl]

I went to the new Woodshed for my second time last night. Once again I have nothing but great things to say about the service and food. Everyone in our party of 5 loved their meals. The manager offered to take a picture of our group. We took him up on it and it came out great. I will go back again and again.

[barefootbay]

Originally Posted by Acrossamerica

In an area of the country where fine dining is defined by a larger paper napkin and slightly higher grade of stainless flatware, hiring staff with the experience needed for a fast paced top of the line restaurant is difficult at best and near impossible for a first day out of the gate situation. 99% of potential wait staff in rural areas have never dined in a first class restaurant so they have no idea of what type of service it requires. And training, try as they might, most owners are about a quart short of a full gallon when it comes to this task.

Give them a few weeks to figure it out. By then the "must be among the very first so I can impress my friends" crowd will have drifted away and the regulars will begin to set up.

Besides what is wrong with a 3.5 hour dinner. You want fast go to Mickies D's.

. A bit condescending

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by barefootbay

. A bit condescending

A bit? That is an understatement.

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by Billy Bob

With all the work that went into constructing this fabulous building it is very disappointing to hear this "slow service " report twice !
They fully understood the interest in the venue and should know that they will be slammed from opening day until July . Problem is they will get the first timers who won't go back . The old cant make a first impression twice thing . they have a very short window to get this fixed

Billy Boob: The place just opened up and it has been flooded with volume night after night. Don't you think you are being harsh? Somehow I don't think a lack of customers will be an issue for this business.

[Acrossamerica]

Originally Posted by barefootbay

. A bit condescending

What part did you not understand. The part about rural folk in the wait staff business not being exactly up to speed with fine dining or owners not really knowing how to train the staff. Seems to me most complaints about restaurants are about the service and who trains the wait staff?

[CateP]

Originally Posted by Greene's Basin Girl

I went to the new Woodshed for my second time last night. Once again I have nothing but great things to say about the service and food. Everyone in our party of 5 loved their meals. The manager offered to take a picture of our group. We took him up on it and it came out great. I will go back again and again.

Hi GBG--Once the hub-bub settles down, let's meet and have a meal. I'll PM you later this month.

[Greene's Basin Girl]

Originally Posted by CateP

Hi GBG--Once the hub-bub settles down, let's meet and have a meal. I'll PM you later this month.

Sounds great! We will have to plan ahead. The restaurant is booked every night and it isn't even summer yet.

[Lakegeezer]

Here is a Google Street View virtual tour of the New Woodshed. https://goo.gl/2CtU8F

[secondcurve]

Thanks for posting thr picture/tour. It looks amazing. I also found some great pictures on Facebook.

Does anyone know if the restaurant is open for lunch?

[Billy Bob]

Originally Posted by secondcurve

Thanks for posting thr picture/tour. It looks amazing. I also found some great pictures on Facebook.

Does anyone know if the restaurant is open for lunch?

Facebook says open for dinner , 5 to 10 pm nothing about lunch
Also has the phone number and photos

[Barbara]

Who is the chef at the new Woodshed?

[VitaBene]

Originally Posted by Barbara

Who is the chef at the new Woodshed?

Siobhan who was at the Restaurant Wolfeboro

[Barbara]

What great news! She is wonderful!

[neckdweller]

OK, now that the kids have been yelled at to get off our respective lawns I've got a couple Woodshed questions:

-Anyone order a nice rare/medium rare cut of prime rib and if so how was it?

-Swirler size cocktails available, yes or no?

[BunnyClark97]

- How about the menu? Has it changed as well?
Seems like last time I was there it was a bit limited.

[Somalicat]

My brother-in-law would like to celebrate my hubby's birthday tomorrow night at the Woodshed. Would appreciate any opinions about this restaurant.

[jgrif6180]

My wife & I went to the New Woodshed tonight with four friends for dinner. The service was great and the food was perfectly prepared. Will not hesitate to return. Highly recommended.

[Newbiesaukee]

...to do the definitive New Woodshed review with some provisos:

First, this is partly tongue-in-cheek. Recognizing that this is both the Internet and the Winnipesaukee Forum, this is a necessary disclaimer.

Secondly, nothing tastes as good as it did 25 years ago. A wise man once said "Nostalgia is the biggest lie of all." It is.

Nothing is as good as it is in (fill in the blank, usually ones home town). Although I am from Florida and can say with authority that as inexperienced as some of the employees may be at the Lake, I take niceness over experience any day.

Regardless of what the prices really are or the value of the meal, they are too high.

With respect to speed of service, my late father-in-law was not pleased unless his meal was placed in front of him the moment he sat down. My late father, on the other hand, did not consider it dining if the meal was less than three hours. Guess what our family dinners were like?

Now to my review: the New Woodshed is pretty darned good.

But, to expand. The owners have definitely taken some financial risks. The building and grounds are lovely and very well done. There is the main dining room very much like the old Woodshed..but with better floors and seating; and there is a very nice and very large bar area.

We were seated promptly..the bar was buzzing and the dining room was busy but not full. This was Friday at 7 pm. It filled a little later. The service (Carly) was very good and: she handled my wife's questions (concerning certain food sensitivities) in just the right way. The pace was fine for us...appropriately midway between my FIL and my father's preferences. The large tables around us did not seem unhappy with the service. The manager stopped by the table and actually did things to help the young staff and please the diners. What a concept.

To answer questions raised on the Forum...Swirler sized drinks are available, the bread in the flower pot was there; and the bread was actually better than the old, somewhat bland recipe.

The menu is a good mix of the old and the new. There are a few new things, a few old things and some things borrowed. Oh, this sounds like a wedding. Anyway, the menu is a bit larger with a few more offerings. The prices are a bit higher...no surprise there. Salad does not come with the entrees ( $2.95 for the house salad, 3.95for the Caesar) both with an entree. But a lot of stuff does come with an entree. The usual veg-of-the day medley is a big improvement over the old-veg-of-the day medley.

I had the duck, dear wife had the filet, and both were good. We don't usually eat dessert, but there was a nice selection including some old favorites.

All in all, we will definitely return. The food isn't the best in the Lakes region ( Lemon Grass is our favorite). BUT...

...it is definitely the place I would take guests or celebrate a special occasion (it was my birthday) and we wish them future success.

The New Woodshed deserves it.

[Orion]

Our experience was pretty much the same...good review Newbie. The only gripe from our party was the portion size on the chicken and haddock dinners. I had 10 oz. prime rib and wife had salmon.....both excellent and sufficient. Prices are up, but so was the bag of groceries I bought earlier in the day. No surprise.

[wadden]

We went Memorial Day weekend - party of 4. Server came to table right away to take drink orders, but it took 20 minutes. Service was pleasant but slow - took an hour for appetizers to arrive. Food is excellent. Once the kitchen/service irons out the kinks, this will be one of the best restaurants around the lake. We will be back.

[Eagle54]

Great to have the Woodshed back; the renovation looks great, esp the barn/dining area. Having Siobhan as the chef is great. Jesse, the waitress provided great service. Overall, it was a good experience, and we'll return; but a few things that could be improved on to make it better - a couple in our group had the salmon that was excellent; two had the 'traditional' prime rib ... both felt it was 'ok', prepared well, but somewhat bland taste. Compared to other local places (including Mis En Place, Inn on Main) the New Woodshed price was not outrageous but definitely high for what we got. $250 + tip for 4 people.

[Mskelt]

Just like everyone else I was devastated when the Woodshed fire occurred. Thankfully The New Woodshed has opened again and last night we gave it a try. We had a 6:30 reservation and were seated promptly at a great table in the main room. We marveled at the "old" barn that was relocated and became part of this Moultonboro icon. We all loved the decor and marveled at the fireplace in the center of the room. Every server, hostess and manager had a smile on their face and greeted everyone making them feel at home. One kind young waiter let me peek out on the porch and I was thrilled to see all the college and school banners on the walls! Just like old times but fresher and more comfortable than the old porch.
The food was delicious. We all ordered salads and an entree. It was nice to see a salad special, Greek with heirloom tomatoes! Our roasted duck was perfectly done, another member of our group had the pork chop with homemade applesauce and declared it the best meal in a long time!
I have been following the posts on this thread for some time.
It seems that it may have taken a few weeks to iron out the kinks but I have nothing but great things to say about the Woodshed. I wish them the best of luck and look forward to more visits.

[Acrossamerica]

Guess I will have to make a visit to get the proper gauge of the place. Most all the reviews on this board have been positive but speaking with a few people who have the New York city restaurant experience stated that it was overall terrible in both food and service. So who to believe. best to try it oneself. Restaurants are very subjective. Been living in NH 25 years and have yet to locate a decent hard roll, Chinese restaurant and only one real pizza place. But then coming from a metropolitan area into a rural area one must make great food sacrifices.

[Winnisquamer]

We don't value the opinion of New Yorkers up here in Red Sox, Bruins, patriots country. Haha I kid, maybe not.

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by Acrossamerica

Guess I will have to make a visit to get the proper gauge of the place. Most all the reviews on this board have been positive but speaking with a few people who have the New York city restaurant experience stated that it was overall terrible in both food and service. So who to believe. best to try it oneself. Restaurants are very subjective. Been living in NH 25 years and have yet to locate a decent hard roll, Chinese restaurant and only one real pizza place. But then coming from a metropolitan area into a rural area one must make great food sacrifices.

By any chance are you a cook?

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by Acrossamerica

Guess I will have to make a visit to get the proper gauge of the place. Most all the reviews on this board have been positive but speaking with a few people who have the New York city restaurant experience stated that it was overall terrible in both food and service. So who to believe. best to try it oneself. Restaurants are very subjective. Been living in NH 25 years and have yet to locate a decent hard roll, Chinese restaurant and only one real pizza place. But then coming from a metropolitan area into a rural area one must make great food sacrifices.

Why would your New York City dishwasher friends evaluate the restaurant so differently from everybody else on this forum?

[Acrossamerica]

Originally Posted by Winnisquamer

We don't value the opinion of New Yorkers up here in Red Sox, Bruins, patriots country. Haha I kid, maybe not.

How come you left out the Celtics? Do you know what the Red Sox have in common with lawn furniture? After Labor Day they both fold up and go into the basement. I kid, but maybe not.

[Acrossamerica]

Originally Posted by secondcurve

Why would your New York City dishwasher friends evaluate the restaurant so differently from everybody else on this forum?

I'm a little confused. Are all of the local posters here all dishwashers at local restaurants?

[ApS]

Originally Posted by secondcurve

Why would your New York City dishwasher friends evaluate the restaurant so differently from everybody else on this forum?

Would your question read better if it were phrased thusly?:

Why would your New York City bus-boy friends evaluate the restaurant so differently from everybody else on this forum?

They'd know what entrees were left behind.

.

[noreast]

New York likes, Anthony Weiner (Carlos Danger) Elliot Spitzer, Mike Francessa, soda tax, $40 pizza,Carmelo Anthony, A Rod. It's early, I can come up with more. I'll listen to the NH people.

[belly_button_biter]

Originally Posted by Acrossamerica

Guess I will have to that there's nothinghe proper gauge of the place. Most all the reviews on this board have been positive but speaking with a few people who have the New York city restaurant experience stated that it was overall terrible in both food and service. So who to believe. best to try it oneself. Restaurants are very subjective. Been living in NH 25 years and have yet to locate a decent hard roll, Chinese restaurant and only one real pizza place. But then coming from a metropolitan area into a rural area one must make great food sacrifices.

I have not been yet either but my barber tells me that there's been nothing but negatives about service quality and price. it seems that most of the posts on this board are favorable toward restaurants on that side of the lake. No matter what technology brings us I don't think the credibility of the barbershop will ever go away.

[Billy Bob]

4 of us went last week.
First , stop with the nostalgia , this is a new establishment in the locacation of a spot that burned to the ground. It's a new business.
The barn came out fantastic , the builder is an artist . The garden also came out great. The bar area is nothing special at all.
The service issues seem to have been addressed , nice people , knowledgable , and now no long gaps between order and delivery . they seem to be accomplishing this by limiting the number of reservations they take . Good idea.
Now the food , the salads and apps were ok , the duck was dry and over cooked , the prime rib also dry , overcooked and lacked flavor , very expensive and disappointing . The food at the a Bob house is better at a third the cost .
Most of the neighbors that have gone have also been disappointed with the food . Needs work .

[Old Hubbard Rd]

We had a party of 5. We were all pretty excited to get back to the Woodshed. Upon arrival the exterior looked beautiful! The entry area is missing the old charm and the bell that was attached to the front door that would ring with your arrival or departure. The entry and bar has no charm. The dining room really reminded me of the old Woodshed. They did a great job with the dining room!! The prices are way high. They had run out of Prime Rib. Dinners were just ok. Service was very slow. I'm a sucker for atmosphere so I will be back for special occasions only.

[donnamatrix]

6-30-16. Had 6pm reservation. Seated and waited 75 minutes for salad. Lobster so overdone, really inedible. We spoke to owner who basically did nothing. We will not return. Prices high, all meals mediocre.

[phoenix]

Wife and I went tonight. First the place is incredible . Very great atmosphere. We both had haddock which was $ 24 which did not include a salad . The food was very good but if I want to discount the price I would chose the haddock at the Bob for $16 . Or at 1$10 the Friday haddock at the kitchen . The service was good but the time between when the salad came and main meal was a little long. One very positive was the wines by the glass vs a bottle was very good that is a glass at $9 and bottle at $23. I will likely go again but will go more often to the Bob and Kitchen.

[Bumble2249]

Originally Posted by donnamatrix

6-30-16. Had 6pm reservation. Seated and waited 75 minutes for salad. Lobster so overdone, really inedible. We spoke to owner who basically did nothing. We will not return. Prices high, all meals mediocre.

You should probably just stick with Piccolo then...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[secondcurve]

I haven't been to the New Woodshed yet so I can't comment on the food. However, I have seen many pictures of the building and therefore I able to comment on "prices". The higher price point is a reflection of the spectacular building and the wonderful dining atmosphere. Everyone needs to make individual decisions but I am willing to pay 15-20% more for a great atmosphere which Mr Haynes has delivered. His investment in the New Woodshed is also a significant investment in our local community which people should be thankful for. I have an upcoming reservation and look forward to what I'm sure will be an excellent experience.

[donnamatrix]

I agree the haddock at the Bobhouse is incredible, much better than Woodshed. We really love Nolan's in Wolfeboro. Plus the much vaunted prime rib was mediocre as well.

[phoenix]

Donna i truly do miss the haddock at Kevin's

[donnamatrix]

I totally agree, Phoenix, Kevin's Cafe was a treasure

[donnamatrix]

Hey, Bumble2249 - that's a rather snarky comment. Two business are totally different.

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by donnamatrix

Hey, Bumble2249 - that's a rather snarky comment. Two business are totally different.

Your review was rather harsh and "snarky" so it appears Bumble responded in kind.

[Bumble2249]

Originally Posted by donnamatrix

Hey, Bumble2249 - that's a rather snarky comment. Two business are totally different.

Nothing "snarky" about it. You raved about Piccolo and you bashed the Woodshed. Makes complete sense to me.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[wifi]

Wifi makes a note that if he wants conflict, to post a restaurant review.

[TheTimeTraveler]

Originally Posted by donnamatrix

I agree the haddock at the Bobhouse is incredible, much better than Woodshed. We really love Nolan's in Wolfeboro. Plus the much vaunted prime rib was mediocre as well.

We love Nolan's in Wolfeboro (and is also now in Alton Bay) But we did have the Escargot at the new Woodshed and I think it has Nolans beat!

FYI: Nolan's does serve Escargot but only by special request at time of seating as it is not an item which is listed on the menu.

We went to the New Woodshed on Sunday night @ 7:30 pm and promptly found a seat at the bar.




.

[donnamatrix]

Ahhh ... I don't think my review of the Woodshed was harsh, it was spot on. I know many who have gone to the new restaurant and liked it alot. The escargot just got a rave review on this site.Our experience was quite unsavory. I still love Piccolo ... but wouldn't plan to dress up and eat dinner there.

[BrownstoneNorth]

Originally Posted by donnamatrix

Ahhh ... I don't think my review of the Woodshed was harsh, it was spot on. I know many who have gone to the new restaurant and liked it alot. The escargot just got a rave review on this site.Our experience was quite unsavory. I still love Piccolo ... but wouldn't plan to dress up and eat dinner there.

I don't think your review of the Woodshed was harsh, either, just honest, based on your own experience, and same goes for both the negative and favorable reviews from other posters who have actually dined there. I've been hearing wildly varying first-hand Woodshed reviews from Wolfeboro friends and shopkeepers I chat with, too; just today on the beach, one "great" and one "don't bother" from people who went on different nights.

What this says to me is simply that the quality of the food and service at the Woodshed is not yet *reliably* good enough to warrant the price and, for those of us who aren't nearby, the trip. The "yet" means I hope it will eventually be.
And thanks to all the adventurous souls who are posting their honest reviews.

[Chefjarrod86]

Hello everyone, lets face it how long was the original wood shed around? what? decades. how many times did they fall flat on their faces when first venturing to the lakes restaurant scene. what works? whats doesnt work?. I guess what i am saying is give them a chance, all restaurants have really awesome days along with really bad days but i always give it a couple tries. good luck, rally on wood shed.

[jeffk]

Originally Posted by Chefjarrod86

Hello everyone,lets face it how long was the original wood shed around?what?decades.how many times did they fall flat on their faces when first venturing to the lakes restaurant scene.what works? whats doesnt work?.I guess what i am saying is give them a chance,all restaurants have really awesome days along with really bad days but i always give it a couple tries.good luck, rally on wood shed.

While I also wish them the best and plan to visit when I can, a higher end restaurant has less wiggle room to "fall flat on their face" than a less "storied" restaurant might. Customers, rightly in my opinion, expect more from them. This is a "new" restaurant. It WILL have growing pains. That's forgivable. Before too long however they should resolve most of the issues and get things reliably humming along with only the occasional and minor flubs.

The "old" Woodshed had a reliability problem. When I arrived on the lake scene in 1993, it was my go to restaurant, especially with visiting guests. It was the place I could go to express the best in lake hospitality and by extension MY hospitality. I KNEW the atmosphere, service, and food would be stellar.

Then something changed. Service attitude slipped at times and food preparation was inconsistent. My soup was served cool one time and then returned scalding hot when I returned it to the kitchen. The response to the situation was either inattentive or spiteful. Neither is acceptable at such a restaurant. Period.

I do NOT judge the New Woodshed by the Old Woodshed's past. But the New Woodshed can certainly learn from the Old Woodshed's mistakes and try to avoid them. There are many good restaurants at the lake. There are only a few that you can go to and KNOW you will have a great time in all aspects. That's the goal the New Woodshed should be eagerly striving for. I wish them the best of luck.

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by jeffk

While I also wish them the best and plan to visit when I can, a higher end restaurant has less wiggle room to "fall flat on their face" than a less "storied" restaurant might. Customers, rightly in my opinion, expect more from them. This is a "new" restaurant. It WILL have growing pains. That's forgivable. Before too long however they should resolve most of the issues and get things reliably humming along with only the occasional and minor flubs.

The "old" Woodshed had a reliability problem. When I arrived on the lake scene in 1993, it was my go to restaurant, especially with visiting guests. It was the place I could go to express the best in lake hospitality and by extension MY hospitality. I KNEW the atmosphere, service, and food would be stellar.

Then something changed. Service attitude slipped at times and food preparation was inconsistent. My soup was served cool one time and then returned scalding hot when I returned it to the kitchen. The response to the situation was either inattentive or spiteful. Neither is acceptable at such a restaurant. Period.

I do NOT judge the New Woodshed by the Old Woodshed's past. But the New Woodshed can certainly learn from the Old Woodshed's mistakes and try to avoid them. There are many good restaurants at the lake. There are only a few that you can go to and KNOW you will have a great time in all aspects. That's the goal the New Woodshed should be eagerly striving for. I wish them the best of luck.

You hit the nail on the head: pricy restaurants have less wiggle room for poor preparation and service.

For me, though, attitude matters almost as much as the food and price. Mistakes happen, I totally get that, but how an establishment handles them dictates whether I'll return or not. It sounds like TNW is doing a pretty good job with that.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

[noreast]

Originally Posted by thinkxingu

You hit the nail on the head: pricy restaurants have less wiggle room for poor preparation and service.

For me, though, attitude matters almost as much as the food and price. Mistakes happen, I totally get that, but how an establishment handles them dictates whether I'll return or not. It sounds like TNW is doing a pretty good job with that.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

I agree, mistakes happen, you can have a bad meal anywhere for any # of reasons. The over all attitude and effort counts. The best can have a bad night, if you never go back because of it you will miss out on some great meals.

[Greene's Basin Girl]

Originally Posted by donnamatrix

Ahhh ... I don't think my review of the Woodshed was harsh, it was spot on. I know many who have gone to the new restaurant and liked it alot. The escargot just got a rave review on this site.Our experience was quite unsavory. I still love Piccolo ... but wouldn't plan to dress up and eat dinner there.

Everybody has their own opinion. I personally like the meals I have had at the Woodshed, but I do not care for the pizza at Piccolo's. I think each person has their own idea of what tastes good and what does not taste good to them. Forum members will need to try the restaurants themselves and then decide if they want to return again or not.

[Outdoorsman]

Not that this is the case on this thread but I have had to deal with this in the past.

I have never understood ordering pizza at a restaurant that is known for steak and seafood (or vice-versa). I would never order Chinese food from a restaurant known for sandwiches, nor would I order Mexican or BBQ style food from a place that touts "fish & chips".

If you want to complain about a Fresh Lobster roll... You might not want to buy if from Wal Mart, Shaws, McDonalds or the like.

My bad if I went off topic

[Slickcraft]

Originally Posted by Outdoorsman

Not that this is the case on this thread but I have had to deal with this in the past.

I have never understood ordering pizza at a restaurant that is known for steak and seafood (or vice-versa). I would never order Chinese food from a restaurant known for sandwiches, nor would I order Mexican or BBQ style food from a place that touts "fish & chips".

If you want to complain about a Fresh Lobster roll... You might not want to buy if from Wal Mart, Shaws, McDonalds or the like.

My bad if I went off topic

Well OK, you did wonder way way off topic.

[JTA]

Went to the New Woodshed last night. Party of nine with reservations. Service was great ... Friendliness obvious. We had a great time.
I ordered my Old Woodshed meal .. French onion soup (very good ), prime rib queen cut (took half home), a custard dessert (delicious).
Expensive? Yes ... But where else can you get that "feel"??

[CAVU]

I went to the woodshed a few weeks ago, it was pretty good, sat in the lounge. The only thing I will say is that it is much more expensive. When I look in parking lot I see mostly out of state plates and high end cars/trucks. When the season over and tourist are gone, I hope they don't price themselves out of the market.

[Hermit Cover]

Rain...no problem. Party of 4 greeted by a friendly staff at the Lobby and the place was packed. Our waitress was poised and knowledgeable. We can describe each app and salad and entree...but suffice it to say...we were all impressed with the size, quality and presentation of our dinners....all were great. The Manager was in the dining room and introduced himself to ever table and every patron....

We can't wait to bring more of our friends to introduce them to a pleasant and high quality dining experience. The Woodshed is back and beautiful and judging from the crowd....we were not the only people that felt the same. Oh.....the Woodshed "feel" is reborn, alive and doing well.

[ericnh]

Originally Posted by Hermit Cover

Rain...no problem. Party of 4 greeted by a friendly staff at the Lobby and the place was packed. Our waitress was poised and knowledgeable. We can describe each app and salad and entree...but suffice it to say...we were all impressed with the size, quality and presentation of our dinners....all were great. The Manager was in the dining room and introduced himself to ever table and every patron....

We can't wait to bring more of our friends to introduce them to a pleasant and high quality dining experience. The Woodshed is back and beautiful and judging from the crowd....we were not the only people that felt the same. Oh.....the Woodshed "feel" is reborn, alive and doing well.

The million dollar question - how long do you have to book to get a reservation for a party of 4?

[Hermit Cover]

We knew a week ahead that four of us wanted to experience the New Woodshed....I can't answer how far ahead one must call for a reservation....what nite..what time..how many in your party?? Enjoy!

[JADAQ]

Originally Posted by CAVU

I went to the woodshed a few weeks ago, it was pretty good, sat in the lounge. The only thing I will say is that it is much more expensive. When I look in parking lot I see mostly out of state plates and high end cars/trucks. When the season over and tourist are gone, I hope they don't price themselves out of the market.

Don't worry they will, just like every other restaurant in the lakes region. They seem to forget about the locals who they hope will support them in the off season.

[ericnh]

Originally Posted by Hermit Cover

We knew a week ahead that four of us wanted to experience the New Woodshed....I can't answer how far ahead one must call for a reservation....what nite..what time..how many in your party?? Enjoy!

We have 4....

[Loub52]

Originally Posted by ericnh

The million dollar question - how long do you have to book to get a reservation for a party of 4?

I would call the Sunday prior for whichever day you are interested in (Wed - Sun) for a party of 4. My party of two had dinner there last night (Thurs), after making a reservation just the day before, though the only seating times were 7p and 8:30p, so we took the 7. Our table was ready on time despite the crowd.

Busiest days are Fri/Sat per a google search (no surprise there), making me suggest reserving no later than the Sunday prior. On a related note, the queen cut 21 day aged prime rib and 8 oz filet we had were excellent and cooked to order. Scallops wrapped in bacon as an appetizer was excellent as well and the service was fantastic.

Hope this helps.

[joey2665]

Made our first trip to the New Woodshed last night. Had 8:15 reservations for 3 greeted immediately by a very pleasant hostess and sat at our table by 8:25. Our server Kristen was excellent we ordered the house cut prime rib, lamb chops and NY strip with a lobster tail. All were cooked exactly to order and were very good. We also shared two desserts, the ice cream puff and Denver pie, also excellent. We will be back for sure. The construction and decor of the dining area and the bar are beautiful.

[Formula]

We have out of the area for about 2 years before returning two weeks ago. My wife and I along with another couple wanted to go to the New Woodshed and give it a try. We had reservations for four and 8:00. We got there about 15 minutes early. The hostess said that our table was not ready, which was fine with us. So we proceed to go to the bar. The hostess chased us down and told us that we cannot be in here. we just want to sit at the bar. she replied you can not be in here. I said oaky I will just take a look around at the new restaurant. The hostess followed us around for about 5 minutes as we took a quick peek in each room. We then went back to the bar and spoke with the bartender and asked if we can sit at the half empty bar and her reply was why not. So I explained what happened. She kind of shrugged her shoulders and said well I need to go over to that other couple and smooth over with them the same thing that happened to them.
We had a quick drink then our table was ready. During the meal I did speak with the manager and he kind of laughed it off but did apologize. I guess that they are so busy that they did not need our $400.00 to return.
I will give one more chance before I write it off. There are plenty of restaurants in the area that will allow their patrons to sit at the bar and spend more money while waiting for the table.
BTW, the food was great and the wait staff was excellent.

[TheTimeTraveler]

Originally Posted by Formula

We have out of the area for about 2 years before returning two weeks ago. My wife and I along with another couple wanted to go to the New Woodshed and give it a try. We had reservations for four and 8:00. We got there about 15 minutes early. The hostess said that our table was not ready, which was fine with us. So we proceed to go to the bar. The hostess chased us down and told us that we cannot be in here. we just want to sit at the bar. she replied you can not be in here. I said oaky I will just take a look around at the new restaurant. The hostess followed us around for about 5 minutes as we took a quick peek in each room. We then went back to the bar and spoke with the bartender and asked if we can sit at the half empty bar and her reply was why not. So I explained what happened. She kind of shrugged her shoulders and said well I need to go over to that other couple and smooth over with them the same thing that happened to them.
We had a quick drink then our table was ready. During the meal I did speak with the manager and he kind of laughed it off but did apologize. I guess that they are so busy that they did not need our $400.00 to return.
I will give one more chance before I write it off. There are plenty of restaurants in the area that will allow their patrons to sit at the bar and spend more money while waiting for the table.
BTW, the food was great and the wait staff was excellent.

I am sorry that you had difficulty with seating at the bar prior to your meal, however I am delighted to hear that the food was great!




.

[baygo]

Originally Posted by Formula

We have out of the area for about 2 years before returning two weeks ago. My wife and I along with another couple wanted to go to the New Woodshed and give it a try. We had reservations for four and 8:00. We got there about 15 minutes early. The hostess said that our table was not ready, which was fine with us. So we proceed to go to the bar. The hostess chased us down and told us that we cannot be in here. we just want to sit at the bar. she replied you can not be in here. I said oaky I will just take a look around at the new restaurant. The hostess followed us around for about 5 minutes as we took a quick peek in each room. We then went back to the bar and spoke with the bartender and asked if we can sit at the half empty bar and her reply was why not. So I explained what happened. She kind of shrugged her shoulders and said well I need to go over to that other couple and smooth over with them the same thing that happened to them.
We had a quick drink then our table was ready. During the meal I did speak with the manager and he kind of laughed it off but did apologize. I guess that they are so busy that they did not need our $400.00 to return.
I will give one more chance before I write it off. There are plenty of restaurants in the area that will allow their patrons to sit at the bar and spend more money while waiting for the table.
BTW, the food was great and the wait staff was excellent.

I'm just guessing but it wouldn't surprise me if they were shorthanded and the decision was made by management not to seat people at the bar because the attention the bartender would have to give to those at the bar would interfere with the needs of the rest of the restaurant.

Restaurants that take reservations will do so for two reasons. First to make sure the table is waiting for the guest when the guest arrives. Second to regulate the pace of the guests arrivals so has not to overwhelm the staff.

Showing up early for a late reservation can lead to problems for your party as well as many other parties in the restaurant.

If you enjoyed the food and the service I wouldn't burn the bridge because there are not many places around where you can spend $400 and feel good about it. Chances are that hostesses is going back to school soon and there will be someone else at the door to greet you next time.

[Pineedles]

The hostess said you can't be in the bar???? A public bar!!! Outrageous! I would have screamed bloody murder! baygo, when are you being granted sainthood? Patience of an angel.

[LSBA Joker]

Enjoyed a nice evening at the New Woodshed last night.
We called at 3:30 for reservations for 2, admittedly late for a raining evening.
We were told by a pleasant employee that they were fully booked, however, we might have some luck by arriving on the earlier side and wait list for the bar side.
We arrived at 6:00 and were told :30 minute wait and asked to wait in the lobby. We had hoped to have a drink in the bar, but, understand that given the design of the bar, it is not conducive to having folks stand around. Personnally, we'd rather have a warm bar scene such as the prior edition, however...after about :20, the GM came by with a hostess and told us our table was waiting.

Our waiter, an old school gentleman was warm and friendly. We ordered the house cut prime and filet. Both meals were top notch. Beef was very tender, vegetables were not over-cooked, and baked potatoe was delicious.

I'd rate the overall as below O, but, on par with Canoe, (a different experience). They clearly need more staff (the porch room was closed), but, that's a regional problem.

Looking forward to our next visit when we'll be sure to call ahead to make reservations to sit in the barn.

[wishiwasthere]

We couldn't get reservations for a time we preferred on Sunday and Thursday. Did get a 5:00 on Friday. We arrived in a downpour and were greeted at the door by a young man with an umbrella. Inside the staff was lined up to greet us. Service, soup, salads, entree's and desserts were wonderful. Our waitress Carley, was very attentive without being invasive. The rest of the staff were pleasant and helpful. Not one complaint in our party of 4, and trust me that is saying a lot. Some of these folks were not big fans of the old woodshed and read some nasty reviews before going. One is a restaurant manager who notices everything! He did observe that other party's seemed to be enjoying too. I was peeking into the porch and a waitress told me to go in and look around, check out the bar, which was busy. They even let me grab a skip and go naked pin for old times sake.
Our menu included, French onion soup, seasonal salad w/strawberries, blueberries, and goat cheese, Prime Rib, Swordfish, Steak, Pork Chop, Puff sundaes, Chocolate torte and cheese cake. coffee and tea.
No cocktails. The bill came to about $230. Which I didn't think was bad at all.
Looking forward to going again in November with a party of about 30. I will call well in advance for this
Fabulous way to spend our last evening at the lake!

[Reilly]

Originally Posted by wishiwasthere

we couldn't get reservations for a time we preferred on sunday and thursday. Did get a 5:00 on friday. We arrived in a downpour and were greeted at the door by a young man with an umbrella. Inside the staff was lined up to greet us. Service, soup, salads, entree's and desserts were wonderful. Our waitress carley, was very attentive without being invasive. The rest of the staff were pleasant and helpful. Not one complaint in our party of 4, and trust me that is saying a lot. Some of these folks were not big fans of the old woodshed and read some nasty reviews before going. One is a restaurant manager who notices everything! He did observe that other party's seemed to be enjoying too. I was peeking into the porch and a waitress told me to go in and look around, check out the bar, which was busy. They even let me grab a skip and go naked pin for old times sake.
Our menu included, french onion soup, seasonal salad w/strawberries, blueberries, and goat cheese, prime rib, swordfish, steak, pork chop, puff sundaes, chocolate torte and cheese cake. Coffee and tea.
No cocktails. The bill came to about $230. Which i didn't think was bad at all.
Looking forward to going again in november with a party of about 30. I will call well in advance for this
fabulous way to spend our last evening at the lake!

no cocktails ?

[ApS]

Since some restaurants are closed on Monday, it seems service suffers at those remaining restaurants that are open Monday.



.

[dpg]

Formula - Didn't you question the hostess and ask why you couldn't sit at the bar? If I mentioned that to the manager and it was "kind of laughed off" I would of told the person I don't find it very amusing. Just me..

[Formula]

Originally Posted by dpg

Formula - Didn't you question the hostess and ask why you couldn't sit at the bar? If I mentioned that to the manager and it was "kind of laughed off" I would of told the person I don't find it very amusing. Just me..

The hostess that we encountered was in her mid to late 60's. Her response to my question as to why we can not sit at the half empty bar was, "because you can't be in here", nothing more that that. The bartender told us that earlier it was very busy at the bar. Not sure why that was a problem when we arrived with again a half empty bar. My wife thinks that the hostess may be related to the owners and that there will be no changes made. I guess when we go back maybe next weekend we will see.

[jeffk]

We went to the New Woodshed tonight (Sunday) for dessert and a glass of wine to kick off the new school year for my wife. They were busy but apparently less than the last couple nights. They are suffering, as are almost all restaurants in the area, from a painful lack of staff. They have tables they would love to use but cannot because they simply do not have waiters to handle the tables. People come in and see the open spots and are annoyed that they cannot be seated. The lounge and bar is being used to provide table service as well. They seem to be managing access to the lounge/bar to not overload the wait staff they have. If you don't do that, EVERYONE has a poor experience because all service will be slowed.

There was a group of 4 that came in with no reservation. They were asked to wait for lounge seating, as we were as well. They got indignant and huffed out. A few minutes later, we were seated in the lounge. If the other group had a little patience, they would have been seated in another 5 minutes. Oh well. I was happy to see them leave because their attitude was painfully evident and toxic.

The dessert was good and the service was fine. Atmosphere? I liked the old Woodshed's quirky feeling. The New Woodshed is very nice, a very polished version of what a barn restaurant should be. Comparatively perhaps a bit too polished for me. Not too much "quirk" to be found. An Interior Designer's idea of a barn restaurant.

My wife wanted some decaf tea and they didn't have any. We have seen this lack in several other places and I can't figure it out. People ask for decaf coffee and they have it. How hard is it to have some decaf teabags on hand?

Perusing the menu, prices are high, setting seriously high expectations. We will go a for a meal sometime and see if the prices are justified.

[jacka82942]

the hostess couldn't have been any nicer while seating us. our waitress was very friendly and prompt with the service. the meal was great-prime rib and filet. we can't wait to go back

[Hillcountry]

Taking the wife to TNW for her birthday Sunday night...will report back but I expect it to be very good! Prime rib is my favorite all-time dinner!

[Hillcountry]

Originally Posted by Hillcountry

Taking the wife to TNW for her birthday Sunday night...will report back but I expect it to be very good! Prime rib is my favorite all-time dinner!

Woodshed was a hit! 3 of 4 of us had prime rib and each dish was delicious and prepared perfectly (rare).
My wife had the duck and it was superb as well...great upscale place to have on the list of restaurants.
Service and friendliness was impeccable.

[KPW]

We were there on Saturday night with a party of 10. Everyone enjoyed everything. The service was great. Great birthday celebration!

[Smokienorm]

We were there with another couple about 2 weeks ago on a weekend. The place was well patronized as was the bar scene. We were seated quickly and pleasantly by a gentleman host. 3 of us had their salmon and one had the duck. All meals were great. An adjacent table had them bake a special birthday cake for one of their number and because one of our friends kept gazing at it longingly the host gave her a slice to taster- it was great as well. Prices reflect fine dining experience which is what we had. A definite "go back to" place.

[ericnh]

We had an excellent evening at the New Woodshed last night. First of all, the building is beautiful when you arrive, fall decorations and mums. Great cocktails -we had the fall martini. We enjoyed the escargot and oysters for starters and very nice caesar salads. I had the prime rib and my wife had the filet... both done perfectly. Great desert choices (carrot cake from the cup&crumb). Service was excellent and very pleasant staff! Definitely a great place to have a special evening.

[ACME on the Broads]

Beautiful job restoring the facility, terrible job with service, the most pathetic, insensitive general manager in the lakes region and food that doesn't come close to what Lynn Sealy stood for or tolerated. The two hostesses are insensitive, clueless and out of place.

A smile was always the order of the day when Lynn ran the Woodshed. There was a hop in everyone's step and the experience always top-notch.........what a disappointment! We've been back 3 times now and will never return.

Do yourself and your hard earned dollars a favor, stop at the Canoe, The Bob House or the O, in those establishments, you'll be greeted genuinely, the food is consistently very good and the service, timely with a smile and no attitude.

What a sad day, never thought we'd see the day when we'd say we won't return to the Woodshed; but after three strikes........You're Out!

[LadyJane]

I had a different experience. I stopped by one day last week in the afternoon to see if I needed a reservation. I was greeted by Checkers, the dog, and later by Susan, who gave me a tour of the restaurant. I came back later for dinner. Staff was friendly and helpful and the food was very good. I will go back.

[VitaBene]

Originally Posted by LadyJane

I had a different experience. I stopped by one day last week in the afternoon to see if I needed a reservation. I was greeted by Checkers, the dog, and later by Susan, who gave me a tour of the restaurant. I came back later for dinner. Staff was friendly and helpful and the food was very good. I will go back.

Agreed LJ! Given that the Woodshed is within walking distance, we have eaten there often. After their initial, opening jitters, all has been great! We typically sit in the bar but have used the dining room 4 or 5 times.