Lana R.
Yelp
I have lived in North Loop for the past three years and this store *was* my go to. Convenient location, good selection, fair prices for the area, treats for my dog. But I'm willing to let all of that go because of my most recent experience.
I would expect all customers to be treated with respect, especially by the owner. I purchased a bottle of wine, but needed to return it a few days later. I originally came in to buy a bottle of wine that would be Kosher for Passover. The selection was limited and, unfortunately, both of the red options had torn/rubbed off bottle labels. I mentioned this to the cashier who informed the owner (shorter brunette, 50s) and she came over to take a look. She seemed frustrated and rushed, but helped me pick out the least "damaged" label and I went over to pay. I mentioned that perhaps I may have my husband check elsewhere but that this will do for now, as we are gifting the wine to a friend.
Fast forward a few days and I come back to the store to return the bottle I had purchased. It was unopened and still in the brown bag as my husband did end up checking another store for a more presentable option. I had returned wine here once before (it was corked) and I didn't think it would be an issue, considering the original label damage. The young woman at the register was very friendly and said she would have to check with her manager and went upstairs. She came back in a few minutes and said, "I'm sorry but we cannot accept the wine. I understand that it's unopened, but we don't know what conditions it was stored in, etc." I told her that I brought it home and it was on my counter for a few days. I also mentioned the issue with the label and that I would really appreciate a refund, but that if it's not possible, then a credit to the store is just fine as I would use it anyways. The woman nodded and went back upstairs to check. At that moment, I was SHOCKED at what I heard next. There was another customer that had walked into the store a few minutes earlier and he was in shock as well. The same owner started SHOUTING from upstairs, something along the lines of - "Fine, WHATEVER just RETURN it! I DON'T CARE! JUST GIVE IT TO HER!" The cashier came back downstairs with wide eyes and said, "Okay, I will accept the return and refund you." She seemed a bit nervous, but remained calm as I expressed my dismay over the owner's remarks. I calmly told her that I have been a frequent customer for several years and that I never experienced such treatment at a local shop. She apologized and shook her head. Although, the cashier handled the situation fairly well, this should not have been a situation in the first place. I felt so uncomfortable and embarrassed. I regret the money I have spent at this shop over the years. I refuse to support such a place with rude owners.
I will not go back and do not recommend it.