Holly M.
Yelp
I still like my neighborhood place, but it needs to re-visit training with some of the new staff. Or is this a new management issue? Either way...
It should not irritate the server when asked about Happy Hour Specials, nor should there be rolled eyes, walking away as the customer is actively questioning you, nor should there be an attitude of defensiveness when asked to clarify prices.
It took an uncomfortable 10-15 mins with my server (going back-and-forth) to understand that the place IS indeed under new management and there's and entirely new pricing structure. New management has instituted a NEW PRICING STRUCTURE for Happy Hour, but has not posted that information anywhere nor is (clearly) new staff trained to inform you of the drink specials.
In the defense of the business, the manager dropped by the table to check on the issue, which I greatly appreciated and must admit is a credit to this spot. I'll take an attentive staff over a training issue any day of the week. You can train someone to be a better server, but you can't teach professionals to pay attention if it's not part of their character.
So why complain about what is ultimately a 5-star review, you may ask? For a few reasons:
1.) this started as a 3-star review because of the server's behavior and lack of knowledge,
2.) the manager's initiative to visit the table and kindly deal with my concerns bumped this up to a 4-star review.
3.) the server's attitude AFTER my polite exchange with the manager bumped this back up to a 5.
The only reason this place has become an "institution" in the Clifton food/beverage space is because locals support their own. When you're here, we take care of you. From Ms. Denise at the CVS down the street, to Stephanie at Arlin's, people know people, people know places, and people SUPPORT everyone and everything in between. You get used to a certain level of care (and competency), and when that doesn't happen, it's noticeable.
This is still one of the best spots in the city, this is still one of the most attentive spots in the city, and today's recent Happy Hour faux-pas doesn't nix this from my list of favs. If anything, it stays up here because of its ability to recover beautifully.