Ni J
Google
I visited Morton’s Steakhouse on Friday to attend your advertised “Bubble & Bites” event and left deeply disappointed and disturbed by the experience.
I made a 4:00 PM reservation for two, specifically for “Bubble & Bites.” The reservation system clearly stated that this offering is honored only at the bar, yet did not provide an option to reserve bar seating or a high-top table.
I arrived promptly at 4:00 PM—at opening—and was escorted to the bar area by a host named Mark, who was professional and kind throughout the interaction. At that time, the restaurant was empty. Every bar seat, however, displayed “Reserved” signs. Even the host appeared confused and suggested that one of the seats was likely reserved for me, given my reservation.
At that moment, a bartender aggressively and loudly interjected, stating that the bar seats were reserved for “special customers.” She repeatedly emphasized that these customers come every Friday, spend a certain amount of money, and own wine lockers. This was said publicly, loudly, and without any attempt at professionalism or discretion.
Shortly after, the General Manager approached me and confirmed that the bar seats were reserved for these “special customers,” despite the fact that none of them arrived until well after 5:00 PM—some not until after 6:00 PM—leaving the bar completely empty while Black patrons were directed exclusively to high-top tables.
I want to be very clear: I do not casually accuse establishments of racism. However, the language used, the tone, the public humiliation, and the visible segregation of seating made the experience unmistakable. It was disheartening, degrading, and unacceptable.
While adjustments were made to my bill, I would have preferred to pay in full and be treated with respect. I am a paying customer, and my money holds the same value as any so-called “special customer.”
I have never felt discrimination so clearly in a dining environment, and it is deeply disappointing to experience this at an establishment of Morton’s reputation. Because of this incident, I will not be returning, and I feel it is important that corporate leadership is aware of how this event was handled at this location.
I hope this feedback is taken seriously and results in meaningful changes in staff training, reservation transparency, and guest treatment.