Went with a group of around 20 people. On the phone, the restaurant was clear that by sitting at separate tables we could avoid the single check and 20% gratuity requirements for party over six.
We sat at different tables and were handled by different servers but they still charged each table of 4-6 by their policy for 7+ at a table. The food and service was nice, and the servers were apologetic and diplomatic in handing us of to management.
However, management was extremely rude and insistent that we had agreed to this. At no point did they express any concern about our experience or the possibility of a miscommunication.
Most people had already paid and left - we weren't trying to stiff our servers.
Any excuse on their part or touch of customer service would have been sufficient, but instead they were adamant that we pay up and get out and that they were completely right about everything.
I have worked in food service, and I understand the stresses that can come with a large party and that the customer is not always right. However, an upper scale restaurant needs to be able to handle that with some aplomb. The Pine Room Tavern is clearly not there yet, and it's not worth risking your fine dining experience on being treated so poorly.
more