Alicia G.
Yelp
I visited Hillstone in Phoenix, Arizona around noon on October 16th for lunch with a friend. We were promptly greeted and seated at a two-top near the bar. Our beverages were delivered, and our server, Ann, who appeared to be training another team member, began to assist us.
From the start, the level of service did not reflect the standard I have consistently experienced with Hillstone Group restaurants across different states. The interaction felt cold and transactional, with no warmth, menu guidance, or recommendations offered. The energy was notably standoffish.
My guest and I ordered sushi. I requested a simple modification to the cucumber and avocado roll by removing the avocado -- a request I've made before at Hillstone without issue. Ann stated she would confirm with the chef. She did arrive back speaking against it as the roll would be smaller. I told her I was fine with the portion. When the plate arrived, the roll presented looked noticeably different than the menu description: it contained cream-based sauce and fish roe, neither of which was listed on the menu. Initially, I believed it was the wrong order. Ann confirmed that this was correct and that only the avocado had been removed. However, the tone and expression made me feel as though I was being dismissed, as if, "this is what you always get."
I asked for the item to be removed from the table and later from the bill, as I did not consume it. Despite this, it still appeared on the check. When I asked again, Ann stated she would speak to the manager. Instead of her returning, Manager Luke approached the table and in a scolding tone informed us that in the future, if any modifications are made to an order, it cannot be removed from the bill. He stated he would "do it this one time," as though it was a favor.
Additionally, when my guest pointed out that the extra toppings were not listed anywhere on the menu, Luke responded saying, "there wasn't enough space on the menu." That reasoning is concerning, especially considering potential food allergies or dietary restrictions. Full transparency of ingredients should never be optional in a restaurant of this caliber. I have a dairy allergy so I would have liked to know this.
There was no thank you, no acknowledgment, no courtesy -- not even a smile. I left feeling unwelcome and singled out, which is disheartening given my longtime support of Hillstone locations in both Phoenix and Houston.
This experience did not reflect the hospitality or professionalism typically associated with the Hillstone brand. The tone, lack of accountability, and dismissive demeanor from both the server and manager left a lasting negative impression. Unfortunately, based on this experience, I do not feel comfortable returning to this location.