Jamont
Google
I am writing to share my recent experience at Lucien in New York City, as I believe it is important to bring attention to a serious customer service issue.
When I arrived, I waited approximately 20 minutes before a staff member came to ask if I needed to be seated. When she finally approached, she ignored me and immediately smiled and engaged with another guest, a white woman and her daughter, without first acknowledging that I had been waiting. The woman informed the staff member that I was there first, yet I was still not asked or addressed directly.
When the staff member finally looked at me, she avoided eye contact and told me to “go look for yourself” regarding seating. I explained that I was waiting for one person and was open to either bar seating or a small table. Despite this, I was dismissed, while the other guests were then personally escorted and assisted with seating.
As a Black customer and one of the only Black patrons present at the time, this interaction made me feel uncomfortable and singled out. I raised my concerns to two other staff members, who brushed it off by saying the server was “busy” or “a bit sassy,” and suggested that I should not take it personally. This response showed a lack of accountability and social awareness, especially given the context.
Although the coworkers apologized, the staff member directly involved never did. The situation felt passive aggressive, dismissive, and offensive. Customer service should be attentive and respectful to all patrons, regardless of race. Unfortunately, that was not my experience here.
Because of this, I will not be returning, and I would caution other Black customers about dining at this establishment due to the selective nature of the service I experienced.
I hope this feedback is taken seriously and used to improve how all guests are treated in the future.
