I admit, I was having a terrible day, and I was both sick, starving and grumpy - but when I was seated for 15 minutes and hadn't seen my server yet, I was ready to head to Applebees. I announced to the girl standing at the hostess' desk that I was leaving because I hadn't been acknowledged in 15 minutes. She rushed after me and begged me to say, and said if I sit in her section she would make my experience exceptional. I didn't have any argument for that, so I let her re-seat me. I ordered and enjoyed the chicken and dumplings (recommended!) and while I was eating I got personal apologies from the new waitress, the hostess who had seated me (she noted that the other server is a new hire and still clueless) and then from the manager who comped my entire meal. I said he didn't have to do that! He said, ""Yes, I do, because you could have gone somewhere else to eat and never have come back."" They even coaxed me into getting a dessert (also free). I talked the nice waitress into letting me pay for my soda because I only brought credit cards and I had no way to tip her! And I left a well-deserved tip. On the way out, three more people stopped to wish me well and invite me back. Now since I'm in town for several months to come and they're near my hotel, will I be back? OF COURSE! The food was delectable, and these folks care deeply about keeping their customers. Oh, and if you go, ask to be seated in Mallory's section. :-)
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