As a true Seattle girl I've had my fair share of Viet restaurants experience because it's my favorite. When we walked in, it was empty and the greeting was minimal at best: "For here or to go?" No big deal- we got the spring roll and pho combo, plus an extra bowl because that's our go to at any Viet spot.
The food itself was decent. The spring rolls were good and the peanut sauce had fried garlic in it and that and broth actually hit the spot.
But even before we really got into the meal, there was a weird moment with the extra bowl. She forgot to bring it out with everything else, so I asked for it again. She didn't respond or at least I didn't hear anything back and then eventually came over and just set the bowl down at the far edge of the table, instead of handing it to me or placing it in front of us. It felt dismissive. What was the attitude about or maybe just really poor customer service.
Unfortunately, my son found what appeared to be a small fly or gnat in his shrimp. He squirmed and loudly announced, "EWW!" with that classic horrified kid look. I considered mentioning it, but that would've required someone checking on us at some point during the meal. Plus, I'm pretty certain she heard the "eww" from the counter.
No one checked on us.
When we were finished, I sent my elementary school age, adorable son to ask for the check. He came back saying the woman had mumbled something to him, but he didn't understand. I looked up and she looked at us, no communication and so we continued sitting there waiting. Still no check. Still no interaction, even though sis at the counter watched him walk back to me and knew we clearly done. I walked up to the bill about 16 something, which is quite a deal, gave her a $20 and walked out.
I understand everyone has off days. I even understand a gnat on the shrimp. I also understand it was about an hour before closing. But being treated like an inconvenience while spending money somewhere is never a great feeling. Especially these days. Not in this economy. Not with this common sense and self respect. Not with this will power and so many other options available.
All I know is that somewhere between the poor service, fly in the shrimp and power play for the check, a Yelp reviewer was born. The food was decent enough, but the service made sure I'll never be back. read more