Bret B.
Yelp
After 20 years of frequenting Perry's, 50+ business dinners, parties, celebrations and too many Friday night dinners to count, last night is likely the last visit. I thought about how many $$$$$ spent over the years here and it is a lot.
I waited to put this up as I don't do negative reviews, 90% of my reviews are 4 or 5 star, ocassional 3 star, almost zero 1 or 2. It takes a lot of time (years), a bit of disrespect and a lot of spend to get you a 1 or 2 star from me. Typically, if I have a bad experience, I just don't go back, or if I feel compelled I contact the owner or manager and give them a chance to make it right. Well, in this situation, I already did that and was blown off by the manager. Based on the magnum $$$$$ spent at Perry's over the last 20 years feel compelled to share my opinions.......
Last night I requested to see manager before we were seated to inquire about something I had asked about twice previously with no follow up. The Manager walked up and I explained my inquiry and he said "let me get your email?" Then he left. What? I am asking a simple question, why does he need my email, just give me an answer. Well that was not possible as he disappeared.
At this point, the host seated us and after waiting about 10 minutes, server showed up. Last night wasn't busy and plenty of staff were lined up on the walls. When she finally showed up she started with "good morning, no wait, what time is it, I have no idea? Have you ever dined with us?" It wasn't the morning and yes we have been here more than 100 times. Server attitude reminded me of 24 hour truck stop diner at 2am.
It was no big deal as we got up and went to Mastros, and had a 5 star experience. This is not about the food at Perry's, which has been consistently good at this and all locations, or the ambiance, which is average to good, depending on where seated.
This was not a quick decision or emotional response. For the last few years, we have been going to Perry's less and less. Trulucks and Mastros are 10 minutes further, but in my opinion, much better for about the same price range. Unfortunate, as Perry's is really close.
Over time a few of the staff, most of who are no longer there, took time to know us and show some appreciation for our business. Years ago management would stop by the table with "how is everything".
I have dined at almost every one of Perry's restaurants, Dallas (before it closed), Austin, all Houston River Oaks, Chanpions, Sugar Land, butcher location at I45 and BW8 and original in south Houston. At one time, Perry's was one of our favorite places. Not anymore.