This was not a five-star experience, which is disappointing because I really wanted to support this…read morebusiness. This review is about the terrible behavior of staff members to each other. My food and beverages have always been good.
My first visit was wonderful. The two younger women and a young man who was training were incredibly kind, welcoming, and did a fantastic job. I had actually forgotten about Some Bagels and hadn't been there in years, but because of how positive that experience was, I came back. Since then, I've become a regular, stopping in once or twice a week. The employees I most often see--Sage, Sofie, and Ryder--are always friendly, work well together, and handle busy rushes with professionalism. They are the reason I kept returning.
Unfortunately, over several visits, I've also noticed two more seasoned employees making rude comments to the younger staff and speaking to them very abruptly. At first, I gave them the benefit of the doubt because it was busy, and I assumed they were simply stressed.
However, one visit changed my opinion. I witnessed one of the older employees speaking to Sofie in such a disrespectful manner that she looked like she was on the verge of tears. I was honestly shocked that anyone would speak to a coworker that way, especially in front of customers.
Today's visit was the final straw. There were several employees working, and I was waiting behind two customers ordering coffee drinks. Ryder prepared their drinks, and the customers clarified they wanted them hot instead of iced. On a 100-degree day, it's an understandable mistake to assume iced. He immediately apologized and remade the drinks. When he returned, one customer clarified that one of the drinks was actually a different beverage altogether.
Throughout the entire interaction, an employee named JESSI repeatedly corrected, scolded, and embarrassed Ryder in front of customers. I made a point to learn her name because her behavior stood out so negatively. JESSI, it took everything in me not to say something. I have never spoken to a coworker, employee, or any person with that level of disrespect, especially over an honest mistake that was handled professionally.
To the owner: your younger employees are the reason customers like me come back. They are friendly, hardworking, and represent your business well. Unfortunately, the way I have repeatedly witnessed some senior staff treat them has completely overshadowed the positive experiences.
Sadly, I will not be returning. Good customer service builds loyal customers, but poor leadership and disrespectful treatment of employees are impossible to ignore. Bad experiences spread quickly, while good ones take much longer to earn.