As someone who's spent years in the restaurant world, I hate leaving bad reviews. But sometimes an experience is so spectacularly off that it deserves to be documented -- if only as a public service announcement.
We stopped by Harpo's in Chesterfield around 1:00 PM on Sunday, October 12, 2025. The host told us to sit anywhere, which we did. Menus arrived quickly, drinks followed, and for about ten minutes, we thought we were in for a nice birthday lunch. Ah, optimism -- what a concept.
Our server (Alexis, per the receipt) never introduced herself but handled the first round fine. Then she vanished like a magician's final act. It wasn't even busy -- maybe half a dozen tables inside, a few people at the bar, and a lively patio.
Appetizers arrived, then our entrees trickled out in random order like contestants on a reality show. My grilled chicken salad came with dressing on the side -- despite my polite request for the kitchen to toss it. A bold interpretation of "tossed," I'll admit. My mother-in-law ordered a turkey burger (not realizing there wasn't one on the menu) and received what was unmistakably a turkey sandwich. When we asked if it was a mistake, an employee confidently replied, "Yes, that's a turkey burger." I've seen gaslighting before, but that was a new one.
When Alexis reappeared, we mentioned the mix-up. Her response? "Well, we don't have a turkey burger, so I thought that's what you wanted." Right -- because nothing says "burger" like sliced deli meat on a baguette.
Meanwhile, drinks were empty, plates were full (because nobody was eating), and enthusiasm levels were subterranean. My mother-in-law finally gestured to her uneaten sandwich and said, "This was terrible." Alexis, unfazed, replied, "Okay," and walked off like a customer service robot in sleep mode. Moments later, she joined a coworker at the bar and visibly mocked the comment. Shameful.
When it came time to pay, everything was charged in full -- no problem there. We weren't looking for freebies, just a little acknowledgment that things had gone sideways. None came. On my way to the restroom before leaving, I spotted Alexis sitting in a side room, living her best life and chatting on her phone. She had someone else process our payment. Still, we left over a 20% tip -- for... someone?
At this point, I'm not sure if the problem is lack of training, lack of management, or just a deep, existential apathy that's settled over the place. Whatever it is, it's contagious.
Moral of the story: If Harpo's wants to keep guests coming back, someone needs to start caring -- whether it's the servers or the managers. Because right now, the vibe is less "neighborhood hangout" and more "we've all emotionally clocked out."
We won't be back, but sincerely hope someone turns the lights back on here soon. read more