On August 8, 2026, at approximately 9:30-10:00 p.m., my friends and I had drinks at Monkey Bar and…read moredecided to visit the lounge next door afterward. We waited in line like everyone else, remained polite, and followed all instructions given to us.
After waiting at the entrance for approximately 15-20 minutes, we respectfully asked the employee working the rope how much longer the wait might be. He explained that a few people needed to leave before anyone else could be admitted, so we thanked him and continued waiting.
While we waited, we watched numerous people approach the entrance, greet the employee by saying things like "Hey bro," exchange handshakes, and immediately be allowed inside. At least 15 people were admitted ahead of us after we had already been told to wait. From what we observed, these individuals were not being admitted because they had reserved tables--they were simply allowed to enter.
When I asked again why we were still waiting, the employee changed his explanation and stated that we could not be admitted because of the dress code. This was confusing because we had just watched multiple guests enter wearing clothing that appeared to violate the same dress code. When I politely pointed out this inconsistency, he ignored my question.
He then gave a completely different reason, telling me that we were being denied entry because of a review I had left over a year ago. I explained that customer reviews--whether positive or negative--are a normal part of operating a business and that my review was an honest account of my experience. It contained no false information or fabricated events. I also pointed out that the establishment has many reviews, so a review from over a year ago should not determine whether a paying customer is allowed to enter.
The employee then stated, "You didn't say kind words about me in your review." At that point, it became clear that this decision was personal rather than based on any legitimate policy.
As the conversation continued, the employee became increasingly aggressive toward my friends and me. We remained calm and respectful throughout the interaction. We are professionals with established careers and had no intention of creating a disturbance or behaving disrespectfully.
The employee then threatened to call the police. I responded that he was welcome to do so because we had done absolutely nothing wrong and were happy to explain the situation. When the officers arrived, both sides were able to explain what had happened. After speaking with everyone, one of the officers informed us that we had done nothing wrong and apologized for the inconvenience and embarrassment we had experienced.
Afterward, I asked if I could speak with a manager regarding the situation. The employee refused my request, stating that he was the "door guy" and that he was not going to get a manager because it was his responsibility to handle the situation and he no longer wished to engage with us.
This entire experience was humiliating, unprofessional, and extremely disappointing. I was visiting town for work, as I no longer live in the area, and this was not the type of treatment I expected from an establishment where I have previously spent money and have never caused any problems.
I am requesting that upper management or the owner contact me directly regarding this incident. Denying entry based on a personal disagreement over an honest customer review, while providing inconsistent explanations and refusing access to management, is unacceptable customer service. I hope this matter will be investigated so that future guests are treated fairly, respectfully, and consistently.
