Union League Cafe

Amazingly great! Halibut was splendid.

Very mixed experience this time. It had been years since we’ve been here. Decided to go on our anniversary. It was a Saturday night, and maybe this was the issue, not that the restaurant shouldn’t be aware of the load. There were a lot of big, LOUD groups, and for couples, the layout doesn’t afford much intimacy. Our server was impeccable in offering everything over the proper shoulder, etc - this propriety is rare these days. The problem is that she was overworked. We sat with an empty table for 25 minutes after our mains to be asked for a drink or dessert. By then we’d lost the vibe and asked for the check - not great ending to an anniversary dinner. The meals were what you’d expect from a traditional French place in New Haven - it’s fine, not fab. But nearly two hours to get through 2 courses is ridiculous. I can’t imagine the tasting menu. With all our New York, Boston, and international trips, that’s sadly the last time for our local French place.

Food was superb. Atmosphere is elegant. Service was very attentive. My compliments are simple but to dine there is an experience that you will have forever, ...just perfect.

For over a decade I have missed Restaurant DuVillage , But I found the Union League and cherish it. A seat near the window in a booth, delightful drinks or a glass of champagne while we choose 4, 6 or 8 appetizers; So varied and each very delicious, of course room is left for the yummy feuillatine and coffee … oh yes, we choose something glamorous to wear, and the entire staff; welcoming, warm and wonderful! Priscilla Robinson

I've been to Union League a few times and this was my perhaps least great experience and it was still a really good meal. Everyone is friendly and attentive, as well as generally knowledgeable and helpful. The chilled corn soup was an intriguing starter with a nice light sweetness, albeit in a huge serving. We also did the cheese plate, which was pleasant. My steak was beautifully cooked and prepared; my potatoes were well cooked but a tad under salted, although, as they say, "to taste", so how bothered could I be? So the food was all in quite good and well executed, but nothing super standout. This is such a nitpick, but my chair's cushion had a tear in it, which is no big deal, but the leather part sticking up was actually quite sharp and I absentmindedly cut open my finger. It started pouring raina as we were leaving so I forgot to tell them, my bad, hope nobody else drew blood.

Worst experience I’ve had at a restaurant. Booked a chef tasting for our anniversary over a week in advance. Specifically picked this place because the website said the chef would “create the menu with your allergies, restrictions, and preferences on a per person basis” When we called, made it clear one person could not eat onions. Confirmed both raw or cooked. Told it would be no issue and would be safe to eat there. Arrived on our anniversary very excited only to be asked shortly after being seated if the onion issue was both raw and cooked and if it was only a preference because all the sauces had onion. Confirmed again could not eat onions at all raw or cooked. Was told no accommodation could be made despite the website saying so, calling over a week in advance, and it being out anniversary. Not only could I not get the chef tasting, but only one item on the regular menu had no onions and was an appetizer and not a meal. Had to leave after driving far to get there, in the pouring rain, not knowing the area to know where else to go nearby in the pouring rain. By the time we drove home most restaurants were closing. I grew up without a lot of money never going out to eat. I have never once planned to spend $100 for one meal. I was really looking forward to this special occasion dinner and experience. I had told numerous friends and coworkers about it. Others were interested to try it if good. But I will instead have to share this horrible experience. The waiter clearly felt bad. But I don’t understand the chef not making an accommodation when the website says they do and when we called so far in advance and were told it was no problem. I left in tears.

I came here with a big group that had a set menu so I can only talk about that. Union League Cafe had been on my list for a while but I'd never had a chance to visit since it's on the fancier end of the price spectrum and vibe. The service was great! Everyone is very attentive and polite. For the food, overall, I thought it was very salty. Not to the point that it was inedible but I was certainly downing a lot of water. Other than the saltiness, the flavours were great. Overall, I'm not sure if I'd go again on my own dime but I'm glad I got to try them.

Went for a date night with my wife. We really enjoyed our selves. From making the reservations over the phone to being seated once we arrived. From our first glass of water through to our last bite of dessert, we enjoyed every second. Every person we encountered was pleasant and warm. Jonathon, our fine dining tour guide, took us on an incredible journey. From making great food and drink recommendations to a brief history of the building and the restaurant, he knocked a Homrade (inside joke). Thank you everyone there for a wonderful dining experience. We will be back!

Service was kinda slow, but extremely friendly. Food is VERY French, so if that’s not your thing, this isn’t your place.

Elegant dining in the heart of Downtown New Haven. We enjoyed the food and service

I’m convinced this restaurant pays for good reviews. Service was okay but the food was arguably the most disgusting dining experience I’ve ever had, the food was bland and the quality was poor. I got the soufflé and the scallops were overcooked and the dish overall had a spoiled fish taste to it, couldn’t eat it. I also got the beet salad and the dressing was so watery it made the salad soggy and inedible. Also, the bread they brought for the table was cold, dry, and stale. Highly recommend saving the $100+ and going elsewhere.

Reserved a table for two at 7 PM for a birthday on a Saturday night. We were seated quickly, however, the service was extremely slow and this really brought down the whole experience. We didn’t a receive our first course until 7:40. The restaurant was busy, however, it just didn’t feel like the waitstaff were working as a team as other tables around us were getting their meals much faster. The food was OK but not memorable. I also felt the servings of the mains were too large. I would have happily had a smaller meal that was less expensive and more artfully plated. The best part were the desserts- beautifully plated and all the elements of the dish were spot on. They did bring a macaron plate for the birthday we were celebrating which was a thoughtful touch. Overall, this restaurant didn’t meet expectations in terms of service and the food. I’ve heard that this is supposed to be one of the most upscale dining experiences in New Haven and it felt way off the mark. The menu needs an upgrade- both in terms of items and presentation- and the service really needs a lot of improvement!

Food was horrible - the only thing that was somewhat good was the deserts. Also, the service was very bad. I can’t remember our servers name but then again I don’t think he even introduced himself. It seemed like everyone just couldn’t stand being there.

Absolutely amazing!! Service, drinks, appetizer & dessert - all phenomenal!