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The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel Reviews List
The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Over the years, The Ahwahnee Dining Room has played host to presidents, royalty and celebrities, in addition to countless visitors, and it continues to be regarded as one of the most impressive dining rooms in the United States.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room conveys a feeling of elegance and refinement while maintaining a comfortable, natural atmosphere. The logs of stripped and polished sugar pine, which support the 34-foot-high beamed ceilings, reinforce the rustic ambiance that is reflective of The Ahwahnee’s mountain surroundings. Wrought iron candelabras suspended from the sugar pine timbers, together with iron candelabras on the tables, create a medieval atmosphere.
Under the culinary leadership of Executive Chef Percy Whatley, The Ahwahnee Dining Room offers traditional California cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. An array of excellent California and international wines are also featured on the menu.
158 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Rating Breakdown 158 reviews
5 stars
(74)
4 stars
(48)
3 stars
(21)
2 stars
(11)
1 star
(4)
Food
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.7
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- scenic view(115)
- special occasion(105)
- romantic(96)
- fit for foodies(45)
- great for brunch(41)
- good for groups(34)
The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel Reviews List
Review 1 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"server was fantastic. food was great. setting was spectacular. a little hard to get to but well worth it."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 2 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Culinary Disappointment
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"While the ambience and staff are world class, the food can best be described as an anti-climax. My "free range rotisserie chicken accompanied by braised greens and creamy fiscalini cheddar penne" for $29 consisted of two small pieces of chicken on a bed of unrecognisable, over-cooked vegetable which was possibly spinach. The penne was simply a stodgy and creamy glob of over-cooked pasta. My companion had the "seasonal vegetable terrine" for $26 which was nothing more than thinly sliced steamed vegetables stacked on top of one another without anything to combine them or give flavour. It was served on a bed of boiled and bland lentils. We cut our losses and declined the dessert."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view
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Review 3 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was o.k. and the portions were small. The ambience was great!"
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 4 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Refined setting with beautiful views of Yosemite though the dress code has been revised so felt the jeans and logo t-shirt group of six young men (along with others) was too casual. Could they find a happy medium between this and needing a jacket & tie? Tasting the wine to determine what we wanted even by the glass was appreciated though I felt wines by the glass lacking in choice considering this is California. We didn't need a bottle plus prices starting at over $40 appeared exorbitant. For two women the "small plates" were a nice addition rather than a large meal though it could be expanded with fish dishes. We had a lovely evening with one of us enjoying the ambiance and atmosphere for the first time."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 5 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"elegent setting. Attentative service. food very good. Good wine list"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 6 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Not up to par
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Not having dined at the Ahwahnee for many years we were thrilled to once again experience a unique dining experience only to be utterly disappointed. Our waiter was virtually invisible, we saw him when he took our order and presented the check. The food was mediocre, the coffee was served cold, our dessert order was never served and most annoyingly the piano player, who was there to play background music, was so loud it was impossible to hold a conversation without yelling across our table. For the price I would recommend breakfast, (which was most enjoyable) or lunch for the ambiance but avoid paying the high price for dinner."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 7 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
What a lovely 30th!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We were treated like royalty for our anniversary!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 8 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Elegance in a National Park
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"From Christo at the piano to servers who have been in the park for 20-30-40 years, to the historic and awesome dining room, this is an experience not to be missed. The food is actually quite good for a national park (although the menu has some hits and some misses--trust your server), and the new "small plates" is great for the older diners who don't need all that food."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 9 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Poor service
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The room is wonderful, with beautiful lighting and atmosphere. However the waiter completely ignored us and just pretended we were not there. We got our wine and still had not seen a waiter. We complained and were then like a football being kicked between waiters who did not want another table. Eventually we were served by a nice waiter but the food was very average. Lovely room, shame about food and service."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 10 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
AHWAHNEE DINING ROOM YOSEMITE PARK
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Requires reservations in advance even for breakfast. Dining room was virtually empty with sparse diners for the hour or so we were there. usual breakfast fare including some very good smoked salmon, cream cheese upon request but very stale bagels and no toaster. fruits were predictable and mediocre with preponderance of watermelon rather than berries which are in season in California. Scrambled eggs in a chafing dish-nothing cooked to order for the buffet. Other menu items available and pricey.
Server, David, been there for years. Bus person was friendly and efficient. A looked forward to experience that I wouldn't repeat again."
Server, David, been there for years. Bus person was friendly and efficient. A looked forward to experience that I wouldn't repeat again."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 11 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Special Occasions
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"THe Ahwahnee cannot be surpassed in beauty--the natural gorgeous setting, and the magnificent dining area which
has been built to reflect the surrounding valley.
has been built to reflect the surrounding valley.
Just being at the Ahwahnee is an experience to be remembered.
The dinner was very good; salad was very mediocre, Caesar salad out of bag, excellent entree, and very good dessert.
The dining room area is so beautiful; and piano music complemented the scene wonderfully.
The dining room area is so beautiful; and piano music complemented the scene wonderfully.
Thank you!
George Seeber"
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 12 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Don't bother
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Our food was not edible, portobello mushroom app was like rubber, entree was overdone like it had sat under a heat lamp for an hour, took 90 minutes for dinner to be served. Manager comped dinner to recover but as we hadn't eaten any of it, it wasn't much of a recovery. We won't be going back until we hear a new chef and manager are in place."
Dined on 5/08/2013
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Review 13 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Dinner in the woods
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Impressive and appropriate surroundings, friendly efficient staff, food exactly as requested, even the off-piste items - all well delivered and presented, and for a not too excessive cost. Our only negative is that the menu is a little on the predictable side. Overall well worth the fifty mile round trip for dinner - even the twenty minutes to find a parking space."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 14 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Truly a dining experience!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"It does not get more unique than sitting in the Ahwahnee Dining room and looking out the window to see deer roaming through the trees at the edge of the meadow. The live piano music adds to the ambience. The trip through Yosemite to this historic hotel is always a great way to end the day."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 15 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The restaurant is in a beautiful historic hotel in Yosemite Park. The view is spectacular; the ambiance is elegant; the food was nice. There is a somewhat limited selection of food. I would definitely go again. We had dinner there twice and lunch once."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 16 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Visit for Nostalgia
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We anticipated the grandeur of the Ahwahnee Restaurant - which it was; however, food and service were both very average on a weekday evening with very few guests! The room is beautiful, but seated between two service stations we should have had more attentive service! The window side seat was appreciated so that we could gaze upon the lawn. It was definitely a nice part of our entire Ahwahnee experience and we were happy to appreciate the historical value."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 17 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Reservation mishap
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our confirmed lunch reservation was May 1, 2:45 for 4. On arrival to Ahwahmee April 29, our dining room reservation was confirmed again by the dining room reservation desk. I then received a phone message on the day of our reservation stating that they will be closing at 2 pm so call them to change our lunch time. Our friends weren't arriving from outside the Valley until after 2 so that was a problem.
The dining room manager explained that the Park Service requests that they post the hours 11 to 3:00 but they close at 2:00. The wait staff told us that they never know what the lunch hours will be.
Perhaps Open Table needs to intervene in being sure that the Ahwahnee has consistant hours and honors their reservations."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 18 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Fine but expensive
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had one lunch, two dinners and two breakfasts there. We enjoyed the ambience and view but it was expensive- recognizing that it is the only nice sit down dining place for miles. It is somewhat typical of places in their position as the only quality provider in Yosemite. We were there at the change of their seasonal menu and they had trouble with a rare pork chop. Overall I'd recommend staying there and eating at the restaurant for the best experience but be prepared to pay."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 19 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
food
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"prime rib was good on one plate but tough on another"
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 20 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Yosemite NP
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Service was OK but not up to the level I expected. Server lacked knowledge of drink menu but was otherwise efficient"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 21 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Dinner for two
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had the prime rib and found it very fatty. Service was great and ambience everything we expected."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: scenic view, special occasion
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Review 22 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellence at the Ahwahnee
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This restaurant has the most beautiful dining room. Set in the majestic Yosemite Valley, our table had a view of Yosemite Falls. The food and service was excellent. Please splurge and experience the Ahwahnee Dining Room. You'll be glad you did."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 23 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Sunday Brunch at the Ahwahnee
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The Ahwahnee: you have to see it to believe it. The great outdoors brought inside in the most elegant way is what makes this world famous dining room in the middle of one of the most beautiful places in on earth, Yosemite Valley. Its a dining room big enough to make a grand piano look small. Yes, it was a buffet, but the quality of the food was remarkable, the selection exensive, even the OJ was top notch. If you time it right, you can sample both the breafast items and the lunch items in one sitting as the buffet changes at 10:00 am, but you are welcomed to stay. Too bad I didn't have much room for more than a nibble from the "lunch" selection. It could have been being in Yosmite, but I prefer to give credit to the staff of the Ahwahnee."
Dined on 4/28/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 24 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Superb, a meal to match the setting
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Well, as to ambience, it's the beautiful Ahwahnee Lodge dining room. The setting, the views in Yosemite are just outstanding. Now to the meal, a real treat. They had 2 appetizer specials on the night we were there that were perfect, scallops crusted with macadamia nuts and a wonderful seared Ahi. Then I had the polenta with rabbit and it was another hit. We paired it with a lovely wine from their well chosen wine list. I'll be looking for the recipe! Service was attentive, responsive but not cloying. Our waiter Bill and the captain Nancy worked in tandem to make it a magical. How can one put a price on such an evening, well worth it! We will be back!"
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 25 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
OpenTable Diner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, notable wine list
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Review 26 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
OpenTable Diner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Food and service was excellent. Staff was very helpful and can't say enough about the dining facility.. Magnificent"
Special Features: romantic, scenic view
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Review 27 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Hot food is delivered warm
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Hot food is delivered warm at best and quickly cools as plates are not heated for serving. Service slow."
Dined on 02/13/2013
2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 28 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Hot food is barely warm when
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Hot food is barely warm when presented at table as plates are not preheated. Service slow."
Dined on 02/12/2013
2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 29 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
4 stars because it's in Yosemite
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"While not quite as gorgeous as Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, or El Cap, the Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room holds its own amongst the beautiful landmarks that you'll find in the park. The food is good to very good but not worth the cost as the menu is a bit on the pricey side. There are however really no other options to eat at night in the valley except the terrible Mountain Room at Yosemite Lodge.
The New York strip and grilled shrimp special was a huge disappointment, as the steak seemed precooked and sliced and the three paltry shrimp tasted previously frozen. The vegetarian French onion soup also missed the mark.
In the end, you don't come to Yosemite for fine dining. Keep expectations in check and you'll walk away somewhat satisfied"
Dined on 02/23/2013
2002
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 30 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We visit Yosemite nearly every
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We visit Yosemite nearly every winter and decided to finally partake in the Ahwahnee experience as we usually stay at the Lodge. On our first night we had reservations in the dining room. We were seated promptly and had pleasant service. The prices are high and not worth what you get, but that is to be expected for dining anywhere in a national park. The good was fine - not great, not bad - fine. The architecture of the dining room and the view makes up for the food quality and we did enjoy the live piano music during our meal. We came with our 6 year old who was able to order off a dedicated kid's menu to her satisfaction. I don't know that I have an urge to have dinner here again, but it wasn't a negative experience."
Dined on 02/17/2013
2011
Special Features: kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 31 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
snow on ground. arrived at
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"snow on ground. arrived at sundown. had an absolutly fabous time, and awesome dinner"
Dined on 02/23/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 32 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Everyone should experience
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Everyone should experience this place at least once in their lives. It's magical."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2010
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 33 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Mediocre at best
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I have been to this restaurant several times throughout my life. My parents took me here as a special treat from the time when I was 7 years old. The place has always been outstanding. This time, however, we received terrible service. Our waiter literally ignored requests for drinks and did not pay attention to us at all. It was markedly different from the service the table next to us received from a different waiter. This was our kids' first experience at the Ahwahnee and needless to say we will not be taking them back. The restaurant does cater to families for lunch, but our waiter obviously did not care about making us happy. The food was also mediocre. So disappointing for such a great venue!"
Dined on 02/16/2013
2005
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Review 34 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
You must!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Excellent food well prepared, can't-stop-eating-them on-site baked goods and desserts, attentive service, Peet's coffee, and each 20'-high window a vertical landscape portrait of some of the most beautiful scenery in the world from a dining room unlike any other."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, notable wine list, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 35 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
The Ahwahnee still maintains
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The Ahwahnee still maintains the historic decor and atmosphere, but the food was only ok - especially considering the price. However, you have expect to pay through the nose in a situation where there’s no competition. There were two more concerning issues. The dining area is set up with server work areas all along the windows. It's impossible to get a table that is away from the server clatter and noise. Worse still, they have a live piano player, and the playing was not good. Not awful, but just not good – not worth listening to. Strange arrangements, funny timing, and a general off sound that was distracting and impossible to ignore."
Dined on 02/21/2013
2008
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Review 36 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Historic and scenic dining
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Had a lovely lunch. Food was excellent and the service was outstanding."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2011
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 37 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Dinner menu needs substantial
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Dinner menu needs substantial updating. No organic or free range meats. Only one fish selection. Fresh vegetables and fruits are very limited. Lunch menu was better than dinner menu in that it was more varied. The wait staff is very friendly!"
Dined on 02/21/2013
2011
Special Features: kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 38 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Could be great, but....
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were a party of 8 for dinner. We ordered just about every appetizer and dessert and loved them all! The main courses were tasty and plentiful. The Ahwahnee dining room is the most attractive National Park dining room, hands down. The wait staff is friendly, though not very professional-wine was dripped at every pour, including on the guests. The food service was well paced and the price for dinner was fair (though $30 corkage is bad). BUT, the "Captain", Michelle, is the most unpleasant person I have encountered in my 25 years of visiting Yosemite. She was rude, curt and unhelpful to just about everyone. Discussing her behavior afterwards, two other families we didn't even know chimed in that their experience was just as unpleasant."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2006
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 39 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Brunch-good but overpriced!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were a party of 8 enjoying our annual Ahwahnee brunch. As always, good food, live music, great location! While we love the Ahwahnee dining room, the brunch is overpriced. In reading other reviews, I know this is a common complaint, but it is unfortunate that the management doesn't consider more appropriate pricing. While dinner is not an inexpensive option, the pricing seems more consistent with the food selection and experience. If you have the choice to do either, dinner might be a better value (once you get past the rude captain that works the dinner shift!) The only other suggestion for brunch would be about the seating. In the morning, any location works, in the afternoon, the tables on the the windows side get hot!"
Dined on 02/17/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 40 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Extremely slow service. Ate
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Extremely slow service. Ate there 4 times and waited 20 minutes between courses. Dinner was 2-2.5 hours. Should have been 1.5 hours. Very slow. Amazing food."
Dined on 02/19/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 41 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
A trip to the Ahwahnee is
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"A trip to the Ahwahnee is worth it just for the beauty and history. The food is just okay -- I had the prime rib and it was just ok; the au jus tasted like it came out of a can and was not good at all. The caesar salad was also just ok. The hummus we had in the bsr before our meal was very good, however. We went for my best friend's birthday and they served her a birthday cupcake. The icing on the cupcake was awful (shortening icing), the cupcake itself was good. The presentation was beautiful. Be aware that because Yosemite is a popular family destination, there will be children."
Dined on 02/17/2013
2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 42 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The only reason to eat at
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The only reason to eat at the Ahwanee is that it is the best food in the valley, but that doesn't mean that it is particularly good. Ask the server for a recommendation because there are a few menu items that are better than others. Stay away from any pasta, which is always overcooked."
Dined on 02/13/2013
2004
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Review 43 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food was mediocre at best.
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Food was mediocre at best. We had luncheon steak, trout almondine, shrimp COBB salad all fair."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 44 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Had dinner there on Valentine's
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Had dinner there on Valentine's day. The ambiance was great; candlelit and they gave roses to the women. The menu selections were not outstanding; items you'd find on any steakhouse menu but priced higher. Even the special Valentine's day menu was disappointing. I was expecting selections that were more in keeping with the location (i.e., wild game, something out of the ordinary). While the main courses were plain, they seem to have spent a lot of energy on the side dishes. The vegetables were tasty. I had the venison tartare as an appetizer. The meat was tasteless; all that I could taste were the seasonings. I'd skip that. Our server was outstanding. Very happy and responsive. I'd recommend it for special occasions."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2008
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 45 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
My husband and I have enjoyed
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"My husband and I have enjoyed dinner and brunch at the Ahwahnee Dining Room. The Sunday buffet brunch is amazing: many selections and well worth the $50 price tag.
We recently came back for dinner, and while the service was exceptional and the food good, the number of children in the restaurant elevated the volume and detracted from the overall ambiance. I understand that because Yosemite is often a family destination, there are bound to be children present, but if you're looking for a quiet dining room, this is not the place."
Dined on 02/17/2013
2008
Special Features: great for brunch, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 46 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Visiting the Ahwahnee Hotel
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Visiting the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite National Park is always special. The Hotel Dining Room, however, is always special. The moment you enter the large dining room with its high ceilings and and enormous picture windows, you know this is special. You are greeted with a friendly, but not stuffy, hello by the host/hostess. The friendly person seating you happily asks about your day, but is never too chatty. The servers are prompt and attentive.
I enjoyed the prime rib and yorkshire pudding. The meat was cooked to perfection and exactly as I had requested. The desserts are rather unique. The Razzleberry pie is delicious and the spices they use (not telling!) add a certain zing to the dessert.
The piano player was wonderful, too."
I enjoyed the prime rib and yorkshire pudding. The meat was cooked to perfection and exactly as I had requested. The desserts are rather unique. The Razzleberry pie is delicious and the spices they use (not telling!) add a certain zing to the dessert.
The piano player was wonderful, too."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 47 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
I expected more from such
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I expected more from such a reputable place. The service was horrific-ignored, had to repeat order multiple times, served wrong dishes, served cold pie, never offered refills, delay on clearing plates, poor appearance of staff"
Dined on 02/14/2013
2008
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Review 48 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
OUTSTANDING SERVICE; UNBEATABLE
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"OUTSTANDING SERVICE; UNBEATABLE AMBIANCE AND SCENIC VIEWS."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2012
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 49 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A one of a kind experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"A one of a kind experience in a one of a kind place! Loved it!"
Dined on 02/12/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 50 for The Ahwahnee Hotel Dining Room - Ahwahnee Hotel
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
It was my bday celebration
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"It was my bday celebration and I'd requested a table by the window for two (all tables next to the window are for two)and walked in at our reservation time only to be told they didn't have a table for two available. Keep in mind the very large dining room was relatively empty. We were taken to nice table set for four but could have accomodated six peopel easy, not romantic at all and very spread out. We sat for 15 minutes before anyone approached us about wine, cocktails etc. When the entrees arrived we knew we'd not be back for dinner anytime soon. My husband's prime rib (he'd asked for med/rare) arrived w/no pink (looked grey)& my filet mignon looked grt upon arrival but fell into three balls of meat once I cut it,can you say meat glue?"
Dined on 02/10/2013
2006
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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