Fashion D.
Yelp
I visited Knock Twice Speakeasy multiple times, even spoken to the owner maybe once or twice. However, this last visit was quite surprising and appalling, usually that's what happens when people get to comfortable and don't understand who is actualy visiting their establishment. I visited this establishment hoping it could bring the sophistication and service of a place like The Edison in LA to Farmington or Michigan. Unfortunately, it was a huge disappointment due to one insecure doorman. My business partner and I were enjoying our evening, generously tipping the singer and staff, when a man in a tight, ill-fitted grey sweater approached us and rudely gave us a time limit at our table. Mind you we have been here numerous times, evaluating the establishment and what could be done better, and never given a time limit, especially when we spend money. And we have enough to buy the poorly ran establishment.
As a business owner in LA, I know how crucial it is to recognize and value clientele. In cities like Los Angeles, hospitality and professionalism are prioritized to build lasting relationships, you never know - who is who. Detroit, however, continues to lag behind, and this encounter is a glaring example. What I've learned in Detroit, is individuals like the guy in the tight Walmart sweater, Is an example of The Story of Little Black Sambo. He only behaves right when he is approached or spanked by someone he think he knows or someone who could dismantled the entire establishment, typical Detroit mentality. "Poor man's mentality."
The man's dismissive attitude and unprofessional remark--"You can be Donald Trump, but you've got to go"--showed a complete lack of understanding of how to treat patrons. His narrow-minded behavior not only ruined our experience but also squandered an opportunity for the establishment to make a positive impression, way beyond the small city of Farmington. Hence, if you want to know what a real Speakeasy is, look up The Edison in LA, you have no idea. And you've made it bad for the young owner who is trying to create an atmosphere that does not exist in narrow-minded Detroit.
As a native Californian, I can confidently say that this kind of approach will not stand the test of time. Detroit businesses, especially black-owned ones, cannot afford to alienate patrons if they hope to succeed. Especially, when you piss off individuals that give you your licenses. To the ownership: train your staff to keep personal opinions to themselves and focus on providing excellent service, or your business will fail like so many other have in Detroit, example: Sweet Georgia Brown.
Sincerely,
Do it like LA
