Rick B.
Yelp
I want to begin by acknowledging the beautiful location of this restaurant. While the ambiance is charming and the food is decent, I regret to say that my recent dining experience fell short of what I'd hoped for. Despite hearing glowing recommendations from a close friend, my visit left much to be desired. This is the same friend that also helped ruin this experience, read on:)
Upon making reservations, I encountered some awkwardness, but I managed to navigate through it. However, I found it unusual and uncomfortable to be required to pay upfront for your meal, a practice I've never encountered elsewhere. As someone who dines out frequently and has traveled extensively for both work and leisure.
During my visit, I was taken aback by the attitude I received when making a simple request to substitute water for simple syrup in my cocktail. Furthermore, when inquiring about a salad option, I was told there was none. Despite observing other patrons enjoying salads nearby and seeing salads on the menu, online. He took our menu before we ordered and I was struggling with my glasses.
I couldn't help but notice the similar treatment of other guests nearby. This leads me to believe that there may be an issue with the service or management. As a patron, I believe it's essential to feel valued and respected during a dining experience.
AdditionalIy, my dear friend told me to name drop, but the owner took offensive, yes. I at no point threw out a name and then asked for a favor. We were friends and I was expressing his compliments and that my friend even shared his favorite items on the menu. But the comments I received back from Fitzgerald's owner, this was not appropriate. He has gone on to tell me that my service experience was horrible because I named dropped, (which I was told to) and was done as a compliment.
After reflecting on the interaction and observing the owners responses to other customers, along with reviewing past reviews and speaking to members of the community, it has become apparent to me that there may be underlying issues within the establishment has been building over the past few years.
It's disheartening to learn about the departure of key staff members. While I understand the challenges that come with running a restaurant, it's crucial to prioritize professionalism and customer satisfaction. A great view, decent food will only work so long when you treat your customers horribly. Especially when its over a compliment from a referral. Even if he did not like the person, who would do that and I don't need to know this.
Ultimately, my hope is that they take this feedback constructively and strive to improve both personally and professionally. I believe that every business has the potential for growth and success, but it requires dedication and a commitment to excellence. I understand that if the owner comments to this review, its going to be nasty and my fault. (Look at his past responses) It's a true shame because we were very excited to eat here and have a great experience.
The owner literally destroyed our experience, over sharing a friends referral and telling the owner that a mutual friend is doing well, Seriously?
https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g42154-d1574611-r938806283-Fitzgerald_s_Restaurant-Eagle_River_Upper_Peninsula_Michigan.html#