Disrespectful. Embarrassing. Completely Unacceptable
I rarely write negative reviews because I am used to having positive experiences, but our experience at Lit Cigar Lounge on the evening of May 1st was so disappointing that it needs to be shared.
Our group of 17+ was there celebrating a surprise birthday, a gathering of educated, professional, family-oriented individuals who simply wanted to enjoy a night out. Throughout the evening, our server was subpar. She was dismissive, made snide remarks, and appeared uninterested in providing even basic hospitality. Despite this, her disposition, we still pressed on and still had a great time, and tipped her subpar service. That's the kind of people we are.
Approximately 11:15, three police officers entered the establishment. Many in our group casually joked among ourselves that they must be there to serve a warrant on someone, albeit never imagining they would be there to remove us.
Things escalated in a way that was both shocking and embarrassing. Shortly after, we were told we needed to leave. No prior warning. No conversation. No explanation from the staff. Others and I inquired of the manager, why? The manager resisted giving any adequate response other than to "leave now". No one could give us a clear answer. When pressed, I was told by the manager, "We don't want your business."
It appeared the issue may have stemmed from a flyer associated solely with our group, but whatever the concern was, it did not warrant being handled in this manner, especially with a group like ours that was respectful, cooperative, and willing to comply with any request had it simply been communicated.
To involve the police in a situation like this when there was no disturbance, no scene, and no attempt to communicate with us first was completely unnecessary and humiliating. Even the officers themselves expressed that they were unsure why we were being asked to leave, and made it clear they were just doing their job. I will say, the officers were respectful and professional, and we appreciated their sensitivity in an uncomfortable situation.
What made it even worse was being escorted out in front of other patrons. It was embarrassing and completely unwarranted, especially considering that no issue was ever brought to our attention.
The most unfortunate part is that this experience does not reflect what we believe about the upstanding reputation and business standards of the owner, who operates multiple establishments that many in our group have supported over the years.
The handling of this situation by the manager was unprofessional, excessive, and disrespectful. What should have been a totally joyful celebration turned into an uncomfortable and degrading experience.
I will never forget those words about not wanting our business, and he will not have to worry, because I will not be returning as long as he is the manager, and neither will the people I came with. read more