Shanti Bond
Google
Delicious main course, underwhelming starters and disappointing service .
I always make an effort to support plant forward restaurants when I travel so I was excited for my dinner reservation at Botanic. I was welcomed immediately and was taken to my table on the terrace and was impressed by the ambiance and natural beauty. The waitress greeted me gave me the menu without any explanation and throughout the night was short, cold and unfriendly. I considered that maybe she wasn’t as confident in speaking English, was having a bad night or this was just her personality- after all we are all humans.
After ordering I asked for a wine list and ordered. I noticed my waitress gave me a small pour, which I realized only after seeing the other tables nearby receive much larger pours from other waiters. My food arrived promptly and I appreciated the other waiter who brought out each of my courses and took time to explain and highlight each item. The lettuce tacos were tasty but comparable to a plate I’ve had numerous times at cheaper chain restaurants. The tomato had an interesting combination of flavors but again not something I’d expect at a fine dining experience. The nori wrapped fish was delightful and light and the flavors were perfect.
Even though the terrace was not full, it took time for me to get the attention of another waiter to ask for a recommendation for another glass of wine. The sommelier gave me a wonderful recommendation and a normal size pour, which validated my suspicion about my previous weak pour.
As the night progressed however, I noticed my waitress seating other English speaking tables nearby and spent time asking if it was their first time at the restaurant, and taking time to explain the menu, make recommendations, have small talk, and overall provide a friendly and more inviting atmosphere.
It was then that I decided not to order desert and end my evening there. I asked for the bill and paid over 100 euros plus a 20% tip. Only after seeing the tip did the waitress’ demeanor change and she instantly became friendly, making conversation. I thanked her for the delicious meal and kindly explained that I had noticed the difference in how she treated other customers beside me, and that I didn’t appreciate being treated that way. I respectfully suggested to her that the next time a solo guest who looks like me, a Black, English speaking woman dressed nicely, comes into the restaurant, to think twice about her prejudice and try treating them with the same courtesy and respect as other guests.
I left feeling disrespected and disappointed wasting a lovely night and money where I wasn’t welcome. I won’t be returning and won’t be recommending Botanic to anyone.