Martika Wells
Google
I recently visited Grand Lux Café to celebrate my birthday with my kids and significant other. I chose this restaurant for its kid-friendly options and connection to The Cheesecake Factory, which I usually enjoy. The ambiance was pleasant—bright lighting and aesthetically pleasing décor—and the restaurant was clean, even though we arrived after 9 PM, close to their 10 PM closing time.
Initially, the service was acceptable. Our server, Caroline, eventually brought us bread after a bit of confusion, and our orders came out correctly, which we appreciated. However, the experience became unpleasant when it came time to pay the bill. Caroline made a point to inform us she hadn’t added gratuity, as is customary for parties of six, and implied that she expected a substantial tip. While we did intend to tip, her approach felt unprofessional, especially as the service throughout the meal didn’t reflect the level of gratuity she suggested.
After my significant other signed the bill, Caroline reviewed the tip in front of us, openly expressed dissatisfaction with the amount, and escalated the situation by confronting us further. This led to unnecessary tension, drawing attention from other staff and patrons. Despite our efforts to resolve the matter—including adding to the tip and even offering to send additional payment via a cash app—Caroline continued to argue, creating an uncomfortable and embarrassing situation. To make matters worse, when we requested a receipt to verify the transaction, she initially refused, which required managerial intervention.
While we paid our bill and tipped a total of $17 on a $159 tab, the experience with Caroline left a sour taste. Though the restaurant itself has potential, the unprofessional behavior of the server and the mishandling of the situation overshadowed any positives. Sadly, based on this experience, I won’t be returning to Grand Lux Café.