My friend chose Wayan for her birthday celebration. I had mixed feelings about returning after a disappointing first visit years ago, but I hoped that after seven years they would have ironed out the kinks. Unfortunately, the experience still fell short.The evening started on a rough note at 6:00 pm. Despite the entryway being empty, the host’s greeting was quite blunt, telling me I couldn’t be seated until my full party arrived and requesting that I step aside because I was blocking the door.

The service and attention to detail didn’t improve much from there.

We ordered a bottle of Grüner Veltliner Weingut Hirsch ‘Kammern’ 2022, which was priced at $158 despite being listed on their online menu for $100. It was also served in mismatched glassware. When we mentioned it, our server responded simply that there weren’t any clean. Thankfully, Renee, a roving manager who was visiting to help improve operations, overheard the issue and immediately had the staff clean a proper set of matching glasses for us.

When we asked our server to explain the menu, he skipped the ingredients and preparation styles entirely, choosing to share only the dishes he liked.

When asked to explain the menu, our server focused exclusively on his personal favorites instead of helping us understand the Indonesian ingredients and preparation styles by describing the dishes. 


On a positive note, a few items really stood out. The avocado gado gado salad ($20) with cucumber, peanut relish, a jammy egg and lotus chips was absolutely delicious and a table favorite.

The banana sundae ($18) with banana cake topped with ice cream was also a lovely birthday treat, complete with a candle for a wish.

Before leaving, we spoke further with Renee. He listened to the rest of our feedback and assured us he would address these points with the team. While we appreciated his quick fix with the glassware, New York City has so many wonderful, hospitable dining options with delicious food that I likely won’t give this one another try.

I do hope they’re able to turn things around.

Wayan
Nolita
20 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
 wayan-nyc.com
+1 917-261-4388